Pack your bags and come along for a week-long adventure through the Emerald Isle.
You’ll explore ancient castles, take in the stunning scenery of the Irish coastlines, delve into the rich culture, and discover the unique charm of Ireland.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or just looking for a unique experience, this trip will have something for everyone.
From Dublin to the Aran Islands, and the Cliffs of Moher to the Rock of Cashel, you’ll get a chance to explore all the wonders that this beautiful country has to offer.
So come along and let’s begin our 7-day epic Irish experience!
Key Takeaways
- Immerse in Irish Culture: From the cosmopolitan vibe of Dublin to the traditional charm of Galway and the picturesque town of Killarney, you’ll experience the richness of Irish culture, music, and cuisine throughout your journey.
- Historical and Archeological Marvels: Dive into Ireland’s rich history and heritage with visits to landmarks like Clonmacnoise, the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa on the Aran Islands, and the historic Rock of Cashel.
- Breathtaking Natural Beauty: Witness the spectacular Irish landscapes, from the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher and the rugged Ring of Kerry to the lush beauty of Killarney National Park. The varying scenes of Ireland’s coastline, mountains, and green pastures will leave you spellbound.
- Wildlife and Outdoor Activities: Enjoy a plethora of outdoor activities such as hiking, bird-watching, and scenic drives. The abundant wildlife, especially at the Cliffs of Moher and around the Ring of Kerry, will excite nature enthusiasts.
Day 1 – Arrival in Dublin
Touchdown in Dublin, the vibrant Irish capital. Spend the day acclimating, exploring the city’s historic center, the Trinity College Library, and the iconic Guinness Storehouse.
Dublin
kickstart your exploration with a stroll through Dublin’s vibrant city center. Immerse yourself in the city’s history with a visit to the renowned Trinity College Library, the heart of Ireland’s oldest university and home to the famous Book of Kells, a masterpiece of medieval manuscript art.
Don’t miss the iconic Guinness Storehouse. This popular tourist attraction tells the story of Ireland’s most famous export. Take a guided tour and learn how the famous stout is made. The highlight of the tour is the Gravity Bar on the top floor, where you can enjoy a complimentary pint of Guinness with a 360-degree panoramic view of the city.
In the evening, enjoy a meal in one of the city’s many excellent restaurants. Dublin is known for its thriving food scene, offering everything from traditional Irish fare to modern international cuisine. And finally, cap off your day with some live traditional music at a cozy local pub.
Day 2 – Dublin to Galway
Leave Dublin early in the morning and head west to Galway. Along the way, stop at Clonmacnoise, an ancient monastic site. Arrive in Galway by evening, immerse yourself in its lively arts scene, and experience its vibrant nightlife.
Galway
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Galway City, the laid-back gem of Ireland’s west coast. With its vibrant culture, bustling nightlife, and stunning coastal views, this city will truly take your breath away.
Get a taste of local life as you explore the narrow lanes and colorful shops of the Latin Quarter, or take a stroll along the River Corrib and soak up the atmosphere. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you wander through the centuries-old streets, and you’ll be sure to leave with a full heart and a head full of memories.
Galway City is also home to some of the best markets in Ireland, where you can buy everything from fresh seafood to handmade crafts. Spend your morning browsing the stalls and haggling with the vendors, and sample some of the delicious local cuisine while you’re there. From succulent seafood chowder to hearty Irish stew, the city’s traditional dishes will tantalize your tastebuds and leave you wanting more.
Day 3 – Galway to the Aran Islands
Take a ferry to the Aran Islands. Explore the largest island, Inishmore, which is home to the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa, perched spectacularly on a cliff’s edge.
Aran Islands
Journey to the Aran Islands to discover the breathtaking beauty of Ireland’s wild west coast and explore the culture of its three islands. Whether you’re exploring local cuisine, relaxing on a sandy beach, or enjoying island life, the Aran Islands have something for everyone.
A visit to the Aran Islands is an experience like no other. Start your adventure on the largest island, Inishmore, where you can visit the ancient stone fort of Dún Aonghasa.
Then, head to Inishmaan to explore the ruins of a 14th-century castle and take in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Finally, visit Inisheer to enjoy its beautiful beaches and stunning cliffs.
From sailing and fishing to bird-watching and horseback riding, the Aran Islands offer a wide variety of activities to suit every taste. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an exciting adventure, the Aran Islands won’t disappoint.
Day 4 – Galway to Clare
Travel south to County Clare, visiting the stunning Aillwee Caves and the Burren National Park.
The Burren
After taking in the stunning views of the Ring of Kerry, why not take a journey to the Burren for an unforgettable experience? Located in County Clare, this unique landscape is filled with breathtaking views, ancient sites, and plenty of local legends.
The Burren is a remarkable landscape that’s composed of limestone rocks, known as pavement, and is rich in history and natural beauty. With its starkness and unique land formations, you can explore ancient tombs and monuments from the Bronze Age and walk through fields of wildflowers – a sight to behold!
End the day at the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, where the sunset is truly a sight to behold.
Cliffs of Moher
Standing atop the Cliffs of Moher, you’ll be awestruck by the stunning beauty of the wild Irish coast. You can spend hours hiking the cliffs, taking in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean below.
The cliffs stretch for miles and are a great spot for birdwatching, with hundreds of species of migratory birds flocking to the cliffs every year. You can also explore the nearby O’Brien’s Tower, a 19th century stone tower perched on the edge of the cliffs that offers great views of the area.
After a day of exploring, you can head into the nearby village of Doolin for some traditional Irish pub grub. Enjoy a pint of Guinness and catch a live performance of traditional Irish music at one of the many pubs in the area. There’s nothing quite like experiencing the culture of the Emerald Isle in these cozy, welcoming pubs.
Day 5 – Clare to Kerry
Head further south to Killarney in County Kerry. Spend the day exploring the picturesque Killarney National Park, with its lakes, mountains, and historic Muckross House.
West Coast Cliffs
Ireland’s west coast, part of the Wild Atlantic Way, is home to some of the most spectacular cliffs in the world, including the iconic Cliffs of Moher.
Towering above the Atlantic Ocean, the Cliffs of Moher offer breathtaking views that capture the untamed beauty of Ireland’s coastline. Don’t forget to visit O’Brien’s Tower, the highest point of these cliffs, for an unparalleled vista that will make your heart skip a beat.
Further north, you’ll find the lesser-known but equally stunning Slieve League Cliffs in County Donegal. These cliffs are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe, providing a more secluded and equally thrilling alternative to their famous cousins to the south.
The west coast cliffs are a bird-watcher’s paradise too, being home to a variety of seabirds including puffins, guillemots, and razorbills. And, with a bit of luck, you might spot dolphins and seals playing in the waves below.
Day 6 – Ring of Kerry
Spend a full day touring the Ring of Kerry, a scenic drive around the Iveragh Peninsula. Highlights include the charming village of Sneem, the dramatic coastal scenery of Dingle Bay, and the rugged landscapes of Killarney National Park.
Ring of Kerry
The Ring of Kerry, a 179-kilometer long tourist trail in County Kerry, Ireland, offers an unforgettable journey through some of Ireland’s most dramatic landscapes. This circular route, part of the mystical Wild Atlantic Way, begins and ends in Killarney, winding through a diverse range of landscapes from rugged coastal cliffs to lush green pastures, crystal-clear lakes to towering mountains.
As you drive the ring, you’ll pass quaint Irish villages like Sneem and Kenmare, brimming with local charm and culture. Here, you can pause for a pint or explore craft shops selling locally made goods. Historical landmarks like Ross Castle and the ancient Staigue Fort offer glimpses into Ireland’s storied past.
Perhaps the most captivating part of the journey is the stunning natural scenery. The panorama from Ladies View and Molls Gap provides breathtaking vistas of the Killarney National Park and the Macgillycuddy’s Reeks, Ireland’s highest mountain range.
Day 7 – Kerry to Dublin
On the final day, return to Dublin. Along the way, stop at the historic Rock of Cashel, a significant Celtic and medieval heritage site. Once in Dublin, savor your last night in Ireland with traditional music at a local pub.
Enjoying an Irish Pub Crawl
Take a night to explore the lively pubs of Ireland, perfect for an unforgettable pub crawl. From Dublin to Galway, the Irish pubs are full of culture and history.
You’ll start your journey in a traditional Irish pub. Enjoy the traditional Irish music playing in the background and the lively atmosphere. Then, as you move from pub to pub, you’ll find an array of delicious Irish beers, plenty of laughter, and a warm welcome from the locals.
And, as you work your way through the pub crawl, you’ll get a real taste of the Irish culture. As you sample your way through the pubs, you’ll get to experience the unique atmosphere of each one.
Make sure to sample some traditional Irish dishes like fish and chips or bangers and mash. You’ll also find plenty of other unique Irish drinks, from Guinness to Smithwick’s. And, don’t forget to try the Irish whiskey – it’s a must-try for any pub crawl!
