Ireland Travel Insights

Ireland's Scenic Hikes & Drives - 9 Days

This road trip is the perfect introduction to some of Ireland's best-known sights and hikes, with a few off-the-beaten-path gems featured along the way. Over nine days, you'll explore the Emerald Isle's wild landscapes on breathtaking drives and fresh-air walks. Big names include the Cliffs of Moher, the Wicklow Way, and the Ring of Kerry, but there's equal joy to be found in strolling quaint towns or settling down in a traditional pub for an evening of folk music.

Northern Ireland & The West Road Trip - 9 Days

Discover the treasures of Ireland and Northern Ireland during this nine-day self-drive adventure. Explore crumbling castles and ancient monasteries, sail to a historic Scottish island, and follow in the legendary footsteps of giants. Set off on cliffside treks and visit beautiful waterfalls—tackle the trail to the amazing secret waterfall if you dare. There's a modern side to this trip, too, with visits to thriving cities where you can hit the shops, stroll the streets, and take your pick of cutting-edge restaurants.

Ireland's Beautiful Cities: Dublin, Galway & Cork - 8 Days

Experience Ireland's legendary "craic" (good times) in and around three of the country's best-loved cities. This round-trip self-drive from Dublin takes you to arts-loving Galway and the breathtaking hills of Connemara, then on to cosmopolitan Cork and the myth-shrouded Blarney Castle. There's plenty of time to stroll character-packed streets, admire historic landmarks, and check out traditional bars; perfect for independent travelers looking for a mix of sightseeing and downtime with the locals.

6 Days in Ireland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Six days in Ireland gives you enough time to explore the highlights, including Dublin, Kilkenny, and Galway. Or spend less time in the Republic of Ireland and focus on Northern Ireland's rugged landscape. Check out Giant's Causeway and drive the Wild Atlantic Way. Spend a few days hiking in the Wicklow Mountains National Park and cover trails in Marlay Park and Roundwood, or take a self-guided expedition on the west coast of County Kerry through Tralee, Annascaul, and Dingle.

Northern Ireland & Dublin Road Trip - 6 Days

Discover the best of Northern Ireland in less than a week on this self-guided road trip. First, get your feet wet in Dublin before you drive north to explore the up-and-coming capital of Belfast. Then visit famous coasts and natural attractions (some featured in Game of Thrones) like the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Portstewart Strand, and Wild Atlantic Way at your own pace. Before driving back to Dublin, you'll also get a night in medieval Londonderry (Derry)—known for its live-music scene.

Ireland Self-Drive Adventure: Dublin, Galway, Doolin & Kinsale - 6 Days

In under a week, this Irish road trip loops through a land of epic landscapes and even more epic history. Start in Dublin with a walking tour of the city's medieval and Georgian past, then set out toward the cultural and culinary capital of Galway. Gallop along the windswept beaches of Spiddal, take in dizzying views from the Cliffs of Moher, drive the scenic Ring of Kerry, and go kayaking by starlight on the saltwater lake of Lough Hyne.

Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Kilkenny, Killarney & Galway - 6 Days

Experience all that Ireland has to offer on this six-day road trip. Travel back to the medieval streets of Dublin, where you can see one of the world's oldest manuscripts, then head to Kilkenny to touch the cool stone walls of its famous castle. Drive the Ring of Kerry to marvel at breathtaking views, and sit down to a feast in Galway, the first place in Ireland to be designated a European Region of Gastronomy. Whether looking for history, nature, or the adventure of a lifetime, this road trip has it all.

How Many Days to Spend in Ireland

For a solid itinerary that covers Dublin or Belfast, plus outdoor activities in a few different counties, a 10-day trip is a great choice. With less time, you can still cover a lot of ground with a well-planned road trip. And lucky travelers with two weeks or more can hit several highlights around the entire island at a more relaxed pace. Check out some possible itineraries from 5 to 14 days below.

Planning Your Perfect Honeymoon in Ireland

Ireland makes the ideal choice for a holiday with your true love: beautiful, mystery-steeped, constantly surprising and delighting, and one of the most warmly welcoming places on the planet. The enchanting Emerald Isle is country singer Johnny Cash's '40 Shades of Green', after all. Yes, you risk trading sunshine for far-wilder weather, but with some of the most dazzling coastline around, several millennia of poignant history and world-famous traditional music at its best when starting impromptu in a cosy traditional pub, this is a land highly charged with romance. Here are the best destinations for a honeymoon in Ireland.

10 Days in Ireland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Ten days in Ireland is enough to get to know a particular region, like the Dingle Peninsula or to travel more widely and see the country's highlights. Opt for a road trip around Northern Ireland, go on a western cycling tour of medieval castles and whiskey distilleries, hike the Dingle Peninsula and Blasket Islands on an outdoorsy adventure, or drive yourself around to the country's top attractions, including the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry.

2 Weeks in Ireland - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks to spend, you can see as much of Ireland as you'd like—classic highlights and remote wonders alike—plus exploration of Northern Ireland. Take a road trip that includes key attractions, like the Cliffs of Moher and Ring of Kerry, or focus your time on one region—for example, you can drive the Wild Atlantic Way, hike the Dingle Peninsula, or bike the windswept coastal landscapes of the north.

Wild Atlantic Way Self Drive Adventure - 14 Days

Get ready for mile after mile of unforgettable memories. On this road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way— the longest defined coastal route in the world—you'll enjoy rugged scenery, gorgeous coastline, and off-the-beaten-path adventures from County Donegal’s remote Northern Headlands down to the picturesque southern peninsulas.

Northern Ireland Self-Drive Adventure - 10 Days

Looking for a trip to Ireland that mixes culture and history with outdoor adventure? This ten-day road trip has it all. Kick off the trip in Dublin, where you'll sightsee and taste locally brewed beer, then move onto colorful Galway before visiting one of the Aran Islands. You'll hike in Connemara National Park and visit 19th-century Glenveagh Castle, finishing up the trip with a trip to Giants Causeway and a final day and night in bustling Belfast.

Northern Ireland & Dublin Road Trip - 7 Days

Discover the scenic highlights of Northern Ireland on this well-rounded road trip. Starting in the ancient streets of Dublin, you'll set off by car to tour wild coastlines and charming towns at your own pace. Explore historic Belfast, cross the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, and wander through the medieval city of Londonderry before driving back to the capital city, where the trip ends.

1 Week in Ireland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In seven days, you can road trip through many of the country's best-loved places or stick to one region to go beyond the highlights. Pick up a rental car and hit the road to explore Killarney National Park and the Dingle Peninsula, enjoy urban adventures in Limerick, Belfast, and Galway, hike along the Antrim Coast, or cycle the beautiful Ring of Kerry: read on to learn more about your options.

5 Days in Ireland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Five days in Ireland is just enough time to visit a few key destinations. Start in Dublin and road-trip to Cork and the Cliffs of Moher—or, alternatively, to Dingle and the magnificent Ring of Kerry—or opt for a hiking adventure in Donegal or Kerry, where you'll have the chance to meet local people and hear traditional Irish music and language. Another option is to start in Belfast and drive to the northern coast to hike and horseback ride around the Glens of Antrim.

Highlights of Irish Cities - 7 Days

Experience the unique character of Irish cities on this self-drive tour around the county's urban centers. This weeklong trip takes you to the capital city of Dublin as well as colorful Cork, Limerick, and Galway. You'll dine in corner pubs, explore farmer's markets, tour medieval castles, and even escape to Blarney Castle—a short side trip from Cork—to kiss the famous Blarney Stone.

Self-Guided Ring of Kerry Cycling Trip - 7 Days

With the highest mountain range in Ireland as a backdrop, this self-guided cycling tour follows the world-famous Ring of Kerry. Starting and ending in Killarney National Park, the journey traces the coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula, taking you through picturesque villages and natural wonders on a mix of inland and coastal routes.

Self-Guided Donegal Hike - 5 Days

Explore Ireland’s hidden treasures along the Wild Atlantic Way on this unique 5-day self-guided tour in North Donegal. A unique Irish experience, this itinerary will inspire you with majestic mountains, beautiful coastlines, astounding sunsets, and picturesque landscapes: if you get lucky, you may even see the Northern Lights.

Antrim Coast and Glens Hike - 5 Days

Spend five days exploring Northern Ireland's beautiful north coast. Featuring the Glens of Antrim, the Giant's Causeway, historic castles, attractive beaches, and a Bushmill's distillery where you can taste local whiskey—and even take home a bottle with your name on it.

Guided Kerry Walk - 5 Days

Explore the glorious southwest of Ireland, a region shaped by ancient glaciers and the pounding waves of the Atlantic Ocean. On this guided tour of the green hills, valleys, and pastures of Kerry, you'll enjoy plenty of fresh air and panoramic views, and you'll have frequent opportunities to meet local people and get a glimpse of daily life in their culture.

Hike, Bike & Surf Western Ireland - 7 Days

Explore Ireland's western coast by combining outdoor activities with luxury accommodation in 5-star castle hotels in County Clare and County Mayo. Your excursion begins with a guided walk through the limestone landscape of the Burren, followed by a cycle across Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands, and a surfing lesson. You'll transfer north to hike the hills of Connemara National Park and bike along the country's famous Great Western Greenway.

North Ireland Road Trip: Belfast, Donegal, Westport & Galway - 10 Days

This relaxed 10-day trip takes you on a scenic self-drive tour of Ireland's north. Pick up your car in Dublin and head to Northern Ireland to spend two days exploring Belfast and the Giant's Causeway. Cross into Ireland to journey through the counties of Donegal, Sligo, Mayo, and Galway, where you'll stand atop the majestic Slieve League cliffs, hike up Connemara National Park's rugged mountains, and drive sections of the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way. Spend your evenings in charming and atmospheric towns like the music hub of Westport, the picturesque harbor of Portstewart, and the bustling bayside of Donegal.

North Ireland Road Trip: Belfast, Donegal & Galway - 8 Days

Discover the scenic highlights of Ireland's north on this varied 8-day self-drive trip. Starting in the ancient streets of Dublin, you'll set off by car to tour wild coastlines and charming towns at your own pace. Explore Belfast and tick the Giant's Causeway off your bucket list in Northern Ireland before crossing into Ireland to hike in the majestic Connemara National Park, discover the atmospheric music town of Westport, and end your adventure in the vibrant cultural capital of Galway. 

Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Killarney, Dingle & Galway - 7 Days

Experience the best of Ireland's coastal scenery, historic sites, and vibrant cities on this week-long self-drive adventure. Starting in Dublin, this circular route takes you south to the Rock of Cashel and Ireland's second city of Cork, before heading into the wilds of Killarney National Park and along the spectacularly scenic Ring of Kerry. After a day spent exploring the Slea Peninsula and the seaside village of Dingle, you'll head up the west coast to hike along the Cliffs of Moher and spend a final night in Galway, enjoying the music, arts, and "craic" of the European cultural capital.

Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway - 5 Days

Hit the road and see the best of the Emerald Isle on this 5-day self-driving jaunt through Ireland. Walk the ancient streets of Dublin, kiss the Blarney Stone in Cork, visit the famous heritage town of Killarney, take in breathtaking views of the Cliffs of Moher, and revel in the energy of bohemian Galway. From windswept Atlantic coastlines to bustling city streets, this itinerary is perfect for independent travelers looking to pack some of Ireland's most iconic sights into a short space of time.

Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Galway & Belfast - 14 Days

Get ready to immerse yourself in Irish culture, history, and landscapes with this two-week, self-drive adventure. Starting in Dublin, you'll head south to explore highlights like the Rock of Cashel, the Ring of Kerry, and Killarney National Park. Continue up the wild west coast to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, and make a quick detour to the windswept Aran Islands. Revel in the culture and traditional music of Doolin, Westport, and Galway before crossing into Northern Ireland, where you'll discover the otherworldly geology of the Giant's Causeway and end your journey in the bustling streets of Belfast.

Northern Ireland by Bike: Donegal, Glenveagh National Park & Giant's Causeway -14 Days

Explore the northernmost point of Ireland on this self-guided cycling tour full of country roads, sea breezes, and rich Irish culture. Begin in lively Donegal to explore the town's music-filled pubs and castle ruins, then make your way down the Atlantic coast. You'll see Assarancagh Waterfall, Doon Lough Fort, and Glenveagh National Park on your way, stopping in welcoming towns like Letterkenny to break the journey. Wrap it all up with a tour of one of the world's oldest whiskey distilleries and a walk around Giant's Causeway.

Ireland Self-Guided Cycling Tour: Dublin, Galway, Doolin, Dingle Town - 12 Days

Independent travelers who would prefer to soak in Ireland's breathtaking scenery at a more leisurely pace will love this 12-day itinerary that combines short road-trips with cycling adventures. Get acquainted with Guinness and the famous Trinity College library in Dublin before heading off to explore the bohemian city of Galway and the mythological Aran Islands. Continue on to the otherworldly Burren, cycle the Dingle Peninsula, and tour the Muckross House in Killarney National Park before capping it all off with a night on the town back in Dublin.

Northern Ireland & Dublin Road Trip - 8 Days

Independent travelers will experience the magic of Northern Ireland on their own terms with this self-guided road trip itinerary. Start with an informal walking tour of Dublin, then pick up your rental car and begin your adventure. You'll experience the vibrant culture of Galway, go hiking in Connemara and Glenveagh National Parks, tick the Giant's Causeway off your bucket list, explore Belfast, and see more charming corners of the Emerald Isle.

Southwest Ireland Road Trip: Cliffs of Moher, Dingle, Ring of Kerry, Dublin - 9 Days

See the best of southwestern Ireland and Dublin on this self-driving tour through some of the Emerald Isle's best-loved counties. You'll discover Ireland's history in Adare and at Bunratty Castle, explore the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, wander the streets of Dingle, and view County Kerry's sparkling lakes and iconic green meadows. Before exploring Dublin's Trinity College and Grafton Street shops, you'll visit Cobh to sample local foods at The English Market and hear the bells of Shandon Steeple.

Hiking in Ireland: Dingle Way & Slea Head - 14 Days

Explore truly breathtaking scenery on this walking tour that covers the Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head, including famous Ventry Beach and Great Blasket Island. Walk through grassy bogs, thick forests, rocky coastlines, and empty beaches as you enjoy views of seal colonies, historic "beehive" huts, mountain ranges, and bright blue lakes. Climb Mount Brandon, listen to traditional Irish music, relax in local pubs, and kayak Dingle Bay: it's all part of this active adventure.

Explore the West of Ireland by Bike - 10 Days

Explore the West of Ireland on bike with this scenic tour of coastal counties Clare, Galway, and Mayo. Cycle along the Shannon Estuary and up the coast to the Cliffs of Moher, where you'll stop for traditional music in Doolin and explore the famous Burren region. Transfer to the Aran Islands by ferry and cycle through this remote and traditional landscape, returning to the mainland via the bustling foodie city of Galway. End the trip in Northern Mayo by cycling through Neolithic fields, visiting a 19th-century castle, and tasting whiskey at Connacht Whiskey Company.

Southwest Ireland Family Adventure - 7 Days

Explore villages, islands, peninsulas, and coastlines on this weeklong Irish family adventure through Kinsale and Kenmare. Learn about ancient pirate legends, smugglers, and monks of times past, from Charles Fort to the Skellig Islands. Your personal guide will help you to make the most of your journey by sharing ancient myths and legends and introducing you to local characters. Experience an authentic, off the-beaten-track version of Southwest Ireland together.

Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Killarney, Doolin, Westport & More - 14 Days

This ultimate self-driving tour of Ireland is filled with adventures in historic towns and along scenic coastlines. Start in Dublin before exploring the villages of Laragh, the medieval Rock of Cashel in Cork, and the hiking trails in Kinsale. Then, tour Killarney, the Ring of Kerry, and Inch Beach off the Dingle Peninsula. The final leg of the road trip takes you to the must-see Cliffs of Moher, bohemian Galway, and two historic national parks before a final night in Derry.

Discover the Dingle Peninsula - 10 Days

With countless routes traversing one of Ireland's most treasured peninsulas, Kerry is a walker's paradise. This tour combines the charming Irish towns of Dingle, Killarney, Sneem, and Kenmare with stunning hikes along Slea Head, Kenmare Bay, and the famous Dingle Way. You'll cycle in Killarney National Park, take the ferry to the Blasket Islands, stroll through oak forests, and enjoy views of grassy bogland, dramatic cliff drops, and the picturesque Slieve Mish Mountains.

Ireland in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Ireland's great winter hibernation begins this month, as attractions and many hotels and restaurants close down from now until next Easter, temperatures drop back into the single digits and average daily hours of sunshine dwindle. The positives? The Irish combat the winter blues with some great art festivals, and you will have many parts of the country almost to yourself as you explore.

Ireland in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

December is all about Christmas in Ireland, with the bigger towns and cities particularly erupting in festive events, markets, and elaborate decorations. The Christmas build-up is special, although the day itself is more of a family celebration. Things get going again for New Year, with Dublin throwing the biggest party of all. The bright lights and events compensate for the weather: it is some of the coldest and wettest weather of the entire year, in fact, and no time to be out exploring the countryside.

Ireland in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

The heavens open this month, as the highest rainfall of the year hits Ireland—but fall colors brighten the moors, hills, and forests and the sun still shines some of the time. When it does, the weather can be the most beautiful of any time of year, particularly with hardly any other travelers around. Beware of long hikes in the increasing mud, and be sure to have a 'plan B' available for the likely damp days: great music and arts festivals in Cork and Dublin this month are helpful options.

Ireland in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

With a continuation of—and occasional improvement on—the weather of the summer high season, September overall could offer the perfect vacation in Ireland. Air and water temperatures are still some of the year's best, and yet crowds are minimal now as kids are back in school and families have returned home from their summer vacation.

Ireland in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

August is the height of the summer season, with sunny, largely dry weather and the year's warmest sea temperatures. Clement conditions make the setting for some great outdoor festivals around Ireland, alongside a spate of outdoor activities that showcase the country at its absolute best, whether that is hiking the Wicklow Way in the east, diving off the coast of Connemara, or sea kayaking along Northern Ireland's stunning seaboard.

Ireland in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

July is a sunny and comparatively dry month to visit Ireland. Water temperatures reach their annual maximum, increasing the temptation of activities like kayaking, while the warmest weather of the year makes hiking and cycling very popular now. This is the month when there are school holidays, and is accordingly one of Ireland's busiest periods.

Ireland in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

To announce the start of the summer high season, June has something going on almost every day in every region of the country. A lively atmosphere pervades in the villages, towns, and cities, and out in the countryside, be that up in the hills or along the coast, it is getting crowded. Some of the sunniest weather of the year makes June even easier to enjoy.

Ireland in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is when the weather, which has been warming for the last few months, shows the landscapes of Ireland in full color as average daily high temperatures of 59°F/15°C arrive and the countryside blooms with flowers and birdlife. Along with April, this is arguably the best month to enjoy Ireland, with the year's lowest rainfall to accompany the sun and with the crowds that arrive in the high season from June to August still absent in most places.

Ireland in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Many rate April as one of the best months to visit Ireland, period. Everything is open after the winter closures of many hotels, restaurants, and attractions, and the weather is vastly improved: in fact, depending on where you are, it could just be sunnier and more settled than at almost any other time of year. The year's crowds are not yet here, though, making your explorations more enjoyable and stress-free.

Ireland in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Spring may take a while to come to Ireland, as chilly, rainy weather is as slow to clear as the country is in coming back into action after a winter's break that has seen many hotels, restaurants, and attractions outside the big cities close completely. But two big festivities toward the end of the month, St Patrick's Day and Easter bring Ireland back into life with a bang, while the increasing appearance of the sun means visitors can enjoy at least a little of the outdoor activities now on offer.

Ireland in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Continued rainy, windy weather this month means that by now the Irish are likely heartily sick of winter. Perhaps this is why February is full of brilliant festivals everywhere from Dublin to Kerry. Indoor attractions will still be what occupy your time on a visit to Ireland this month, with a deep, varied, and colorful legacy of historic sights to explore. But in the slowly increasing spells of sunshine, perhaps consider a wild walk along Ireland's iconic coastline, with its cliffs, sandy bays, and delightful fishing villages.

Ireland in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

The coldest, windiest, and wettest weather of the year makes January in Ireland a month best spent in its bigger towns and cities, where cultural attractions from Dublin's beautiful Trinity College to Killarney's mystery-swathed ruins await. Great dining in Dublin, Belfast, Galway, and Cork further help pass time in the wild weather, while dramatic sea vistas greet those who brave the elements to visit coastal stretches like the Wild Atlantic Way.

Hike the Antrim Coast: Ballycastle to Belfast - 7 Days

On this tour, you'll experience some of Ireland's most beautiful hikes. Welcome to the Antrim Coast, complete with dramatic coastlines, windswept cliffs, spectacular scenery, and quiet beaches. Start with a walk through the dense Breen Oakwood Nature Reserve before heading to Ballycastle for a hike around Murlough and Fair Head, where you'll gaze down at breathtaking cliffs and relax on beaches. Head out to the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Giant's Causeway, then end your trip in the historic city of Belfast.

Ireland Self-Driving Tour: Dublin, Killarney & Dingle - 5 Days

Explore the magic of Ireland on this 5-day self-drive adventure. Start with a pint of Guinness in Dublin, dive into the Emerald Isle’s past at the Rock of Cashel, spend two nights in the famous heritage village of Killarney, and journey along the Wild Atlantic Way to tour the Dingle Peninsula.