Ireland Itineraries: Suggestions by Local Experts

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.

Recommended Ireland itineraries

Planning your trip around a well-thought-out itinerary can make all the difference when exploring Ireland — or even adding Scotland to the mix. Here’s a look at some recommended itineraries to help you design your perfect adventure:

• 7 days in Ireland – Ideal for a whirlwind tour of Ireland’s highlights. Think Dublin’s vibrant streets, the stunning Cliffs of Moher, and perhaps a spin along the Wild Atlantic Way.
• 10 days in Ireland – With a bit more time, you can dive deeper. Add stops like the otherworldly Giant’s Causeway, the Dingle Peninsula’s windswept charm, or the historic castles of Kilkenny and beyond.
• Ireland and Scotland itinerary – Want the best of both worlds? Combine Ireland’s rugged coasts and warm pub culture with Scotland’s dramatic highlands, ancient lochs, and historic cities like Edinburgh.

Whichever itinerary you choose, tailoring your trip to your interests, timeline, and travel style will ensure a memorable journey. Ready to start planning? Check out our travel tips for Ireland to make the most of your trip!

Ireland itinerary 7 days

If you’ve got just a week in Ireland, here’s a practical and unforgettable itinerary to make the most of your time:

• Day 1 - Dublin: 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.
• Day 2 - Kilkenny and Rock of Cashel: 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.
• Day 3 - Killarney and the Ring of Kerry: 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.
• Day 4 - Dingle Peninsula: 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.
• Day 5 - Cliffs of Moher and the Burren: 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.
• Day 6 - Galway: 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.
• Day 7- Back to Dublin via Trim Castle: 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.

Ireland itinerary 10 days

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 unique itinerary that takes you off the usual path while offering a mix of history, nature, and vibrant culture.

• Day 1 - Dublin: 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.
• Day 2 - Howth and Malahide: 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.
• Day 3 - Belfast and Titanic Quarter: 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.
• Day 4 - Giant's Causeway and Antrim Coast: 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.
• Day 5 - Derry: 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.
• Day 6 - Donegal and Slieve League Cliffs: 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.
• Day 7 - Sligo and Yeats Country: 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.
• Day 8 - Westport and Croagh Patrick: 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.
• Day 9 - Connemara National Park and Kylemore Abbey: 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.
• Day 10 - Galway: 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.

Ireland and Scotland itinerary

Why choose between Ireland and Scotland when you can experience the best of both? This itinerary takes you from Ireland’s lively pubs, medieval castles, and rugged coastlines to Scotland’s dramatic highlands, historic cities, and serene lochs. 

• Day 1 - Dublin: Start in Dublin, Ireland’s vibrant capital. Stroll through St. Stephen’s Green, visit the historic Trinity College Library to see the Book of Kells, and tour the Guinness Storehouse for a pint with a view. In the evening, enjoy live music and hearty fare in a traditional pub.
• Day 2 - Kilkenny and Rock of Cashel: Head south to medieval Kilkenny. Explore Kilkenny Castle and its grounds before wandering the cobblestone streets and shops. On the way, stop at the iconic Rock of Cashel, a hilltop fortress steeped in Irish history. Stay the night in Kilkenny or nearby.
• Day 3 - Killarney and the Ring of Kerry: Make your way west to Killarney, a gateway to Ireland’s stunning landscapes. Spend time exploring Killarney National Park or take a scenic drive around the Ring of Kerry for dramatic coastal views, charming villages, and windswept beaches.
• Day 4 - Cliffs of Moher and Galway: Head north to the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most iconic sights. Walk along the cliffs for breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Continue to Galway for the night. Explore its colorful streets, enjoy fresh seafood, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
• Day 5 - Ferry to Scotland: Fly or take a ferry from Dublin to Scotland. Land in Glasgow, Scotland’s cultural powerhouse. Visit the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, stroll along the River Clyde, or enjoy a whisky tasting at a local distillery. In the evening, dive into Glasgow’s buzzing nightlife or music scene.
• Day 6 - Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park: Take a day trip from Glasgow to the serene landscapes of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park. Enjoy a boat ride on the loch, hike the trails, or simply take in the views of Scotland’s famous glens and mountains.
• Day 7 - Edinburgh: Travel to Edinburgh, Scotland’s historic capital. Spend the day exploring the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Holyrood Palace. Don’t miss Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano with panoramic views of the city. In the evening, join a ghost tour or visit a cozy pub in Old Town.
• Day 8 - St. Andrews and Fife: Take a day trip to St. Andrews, the birthplace of golf and home to a beautiful coastline. Wander the ruins of St. Andrews Castle and Cathedral, then enjoy a walk along West Sands Beach. On your way back, explore the picturesque fishing villages of the Fife coastal route.
• Day 9 - Highlands and Inverness: Head north to the Scottish Highlands. Stop at Cairngorms National Park for dramatic mountain scenery, or take a detour to visit a whisky distillery on the Speyside Whisky Trail. Continue to Inverness, the gateway to the Highlands, for an overnight stay.
• Day 10 - Loch Ness and departure: Wrap up your trip with a visit to the famous Loch Ness — keep an eye out for Nessie! Take a scenic drive along the loch, stopping at Urquhart Castle for some stunning views. From here, head back to Glasgow or Edinburgh for your departure.

Rough Guides tip: Want to focus entirely on Scotland? Explore all of our Scotland itineraries.

How to plan your Ireland travel itinerary

Getting around Ireland

Getting around Ireland is part of the adventure, and there are plenty of options to suit your travel style. Renting a car is the most flexible way to explore, allowing you to drive along iconic routes like the Wild Atlantic Way or visit hidden gems off the beaten track. Just remember that driving is on the left and rural roads can be winding and narrow, so take your time and enjoy the journey.

For those without a car, public transportation is a reliable alternative: trains and buses connect major cities such as Dublin, Galway and Cork. Smaller towns are harder to reach, but tours and day trips offer a convenient way to visit famous sights. In cities, apps like Free Now make it easy to book a cab, and cyclists will love Ireland's dedicated greenways.

Is Ireland expensive?

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.

How many days do you need in Ireland?

Most travelers spend about a week exploring Ireland, which is enough time to visit highlights like Dublin, the Cliffs of Moher, and the Ring of Kerry. If you want to dive deeper into the country’s charm, two weeks will let you explore more regions, such as Northern Ireland, Donegal, and Connemara, without feeling rushed.

Got more time? Absolutely! A 3-week trip allows you to take in Ireland at a relaxed pace, discover hidden gems like Achill Island or the Beara Peninsula, and even venture into Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking) areas for a deeper cultural experience. Whether you’ve got a week or a month, Ireland’s compact size and variety of experiences make it easy to customize your adventure.

When's the best time to visit Ireland?

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, 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 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.

Do you need a visa to enter Ireland?

For most travelers, visiting Ireland is straightforward, but the requirements depend on your nationality and the length of your stay.

UK Citizens

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.

US and Canadian Citizens

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.

Other Nationalities

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.