The perfect 10 day Ireland itinerary

If you’re thinking of visiting Ireland — a destination Rough Guides’ readers voted the world’s friendliest country— read on for detail on a 10 day Ireland itinerary that’ll have you experiencing the best of the Emerald Isle in exhilarating style.  

How to plan your Ireland trip: a 10 day itinerary

Before going into day-by-day detail on where to visit on a 10 day trip to Ireland, here we run through a few practical matters to help you max out your 10 days in Ireland.

From deciding when to go, to budget considerations, here’s how to make the most of Ireland in 10 days.

Editor’s tip: to see two spectacular countries during a single vacation, see our 10 days in Scotland and Ireland itinerary.

Or, if you’re not fixed on an Ireland itinerary for 10 days, read our guide to how to plan the perfect 1 week trip to Ireland, and dive into our detailed 7 days in Ireland itinerary.

When's the best time to visit Ireland?

If you’re wondering when to go to Ireland, choosing the best time to visit depends on what you most want to see and do, and your budget. 

For example, visiting in the peak season months of July and August means you can expect to pay more for flights and accommodation.

Conversely, visiting Ireland in the less-costly depths of winter is likely to hinder your enjoyment of Ireland’s great outdoors, what with the weather being pretty cold and wet.

On balance, the best time to visit Ireland is in late spring (May–June) or early fall (September). These months offer mild weather, longer daylight hours, and fewer crowds in comparison with the busy summer months. 

If you don’t mind cooler temperatures, March–April and October are also good for quieter travel and budget-friendly experiences.

On a budget? Find out about free things to do in Dublin.

How to rent a car for your Ireland trip

Given that this 10 day Ireland itinerary covers a lot of ground, you’ll want to rent a car.

We recommend doing this in advance through reputable companies like Hertz, Enterprise, or local agencies like Dooley Car Rentals.

While US citizens don’t need an International Driving Permit (IDP), be sure to have your valid US driver’s license to hand. 

We also suggest choosing a compact car to navigate Ireland’s narrow rural roads, especially as this Ireland itinerary includes the Dingle Peninsula and Connemara.

Editor's tip: discover the best road trips in Ireland.

What’s the ideal route?

In our view, the idea route for a 10-day Ireland itinerary is the one presented here — a diversely rewarding trip that begins and ends in Dublin, as is often the way with the best trips to Ireland.

So, we suggest spending your first day in Dublin before driving to Waterford via the Rock of Cashel fortress.

Next, head to the Dingle Peninsula and Killarney National Park to hike majestic landscapes and get up close to wild waterfalls.

The Cliffs of Maher are another must-visit on this 10 day trip to Ireland, as is charming Galway, Connemara National Park and the Wicklow Mountains.

Want more ideas for your Ireland itinerary? Read up on the best things to do in Ireland. 

What are the average daily costs?

While the average cost of a 10 day trip to Ireland will vary hugely depending on your travel style (i.e. budget versus all-out luxury), here’s a ballpark overview of what you can expect to pay for a mid-price trip.

If you opt to stay in mid-range accommodation (e.g. 3-star hotels and B&Bs), expect to pay €100–€150 ($110–$160) a night.

Meanwhile, eating in pubs and casual restaurants will set you back around €30–€50 ($33–$55) per person, per day.

When it comes to the cost of attractions (e.g. castles and museums), you’re looking at paying €10–€20 ($11–$22) per site.

All this, plus the typical daily cost of car hire, amounts to an average of €180–€250 ($200–$275) per person per day.

Do you need a visa?

While US citizens don’t need a visa to visit Ireland for stays of up to 90 days, you will need a valid passport that’s valid for the duration of your stay, and proof of onward travel (e.g. a return flight ticket).

You may also be asked to provide evidence of having sufficient funds to cover your trip.

Day 1: Arrive in Dublin

After arriving in Dublin — a destination Rough Guides’ readers voted the friendliest city in the world — be sure to visit Trinity College on your first afternoon in Ireland.

Boasting a gorgeous campus in the heart of the city, and home to the magnificent Book of Kells — a notable medieval manuscript — it’s the perfect place to start to your trip.

Later, head to Grafton Street — Dublin’s iconic shopping and cultural hub. Lined with boutique stores, and loaded with street performers and bars, it’s a great place to soak up Dublin’s charm, and drink your first pint of Guinness. 

Where to stay in Dublin

With just one night in the city at the start of this recommended way to spend 10 days in Ireland, you’ll want to choose where to stay in Dublin wisely.

Staying in Temple Bar sits top of the tree if you want to be in the heart of the action. By day, the district’s galleries and arts centers are on hand to delight culture vultures. By night, its cosy pubs come alive.

For something quieter, check out accommodation around Christ Church and St Patrick’s cathedral. Though just west of Temple Bar, it has a more peaceful vibe.

Editor’s tip: ahead of your trip, be sure to wise up on the best pubs in Ireland for traditional music.

Day 2: Drive from Dublin to the Rock of Cashel and Waterford

Day 2 of this Ireland trip itinerary will see you leave Dublin for the historic attractions of the Rock of Cashel and Waterford.

Travel time: 2-hour drive to the Rock of Cashel, plus 1.5-hour drive to Waterford.

Start your day with a 2-hour drive from Dublin to the Rock of Cashel — one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks. 

Serving stunning medieval architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, this site hosts one of the most remarkable collections of Celtic art and medieval architecture in Europe. 

Come the afternoon, drive 1.5 hours to Waterford — Ireland’s oldest city, which boasts a captivating mix of Viking history, Georgian architecture and waterfront pubs.

Founded by the Vikings in 914 AD, visiting the Viking Triangle is a must-do in Waterford, with its charming medieval streets, Reginald’s Tower, and museums showcasing the city’s rich heritage. 

The city is also renowned for Waterford Crystal, where craftsmen create world-famous glassware — take a guided tour to see masters at work.

Where to stay in Waterford

Accommodation in Waterford covers all budgets and styles, from modern waterfront hotels, to family-run guest houses and pocket-pleasing hostels.

If you’re looking for a touch of luxury, check out The Fitzwilton Hotel — a stylish 4-star in the heart of the city. 

Granville Hotel is another great 4-star, with river views and an award-winning restaurant.

For something more affordable, try The Anchorage Guest House.

Drive to Dingle Peninsula

Day 3 of this 10 day Ireland itinerary will see you rise early to drive from Waterford to the Dingle Peninsula in Kerry — an area that’s renowned for its rugged beauty and charming villages.

Travel time: 3.5-hour drive

After arriving in Dingle town by late morning, spend a couple of hours strolling its colorful streets, perhaps stopping for coffee or lunch in a local café.

In the afternoon, hit the road for the Slea Head Drive. One of Ireland’s most scenic coastal drives, this loop route serves spectacular views of the Atlantic, jagged cliffs and emerald pastures. 

Along the way, be sure to stop at Coumeenoole Beach and Dunquin Pier, where an iconic path zigzags down to the water, and you’ll get to see incredible views of the Blasket Islands.

Another highlight of this area is the Gallarus Oratory — a 1300-year-old stone structure that’s thought to be an early Christian church.

Where to stay in Dingle

Accommodation on the Dingle Peninsula is largely of the charming variety. 

If you’re looking for a central location, lots of local charm, and like the sound of on-site traditional music, check-out Murphy's Pub and Bed and Breakfast.

Want a waterfront base? Try Dingle Harbour Lodge B&B. You’ll have scenic views of Dingle Bay and will be in walking distance of lots of seafront eateries. 

Day 4: Killarney National Park

Rise early on day four of this Ireland itinerary to drive from Dingle to Killarney National Park — one of Ireland’s most spectacular natural areas.

Travel time: 1-hour drive 

The first highlight of the day is a stop at Muckross House and Gardens, a 19th-century mansion set on the shores of Muckross Lake. 

After soaking up its elegant interiors and strolling the stunning gardens, take a short hike to Torc Waterfall to see a 20-meter cascade surrounded by pretty woodland.

You’ll also want to visit Ross Castle, a 15th-century fortress located on the shores of Lough Leane. Aside from learning about its ties to Irish chieftains, take time to enjoy the tranquil lake views.

In the afternoon, either take a boat trip across Killarney’s lakes, or else drive (or cycle) the Gap of Dunloe.

Surrounded by towering mountains, this stunning glacial valley is mind-blowingly beautiful.

Where to stay in Killarney

When it comes to deciding where to stay in Killarney, we recommend The Gardens B&B. Just a 2-minute walk from Killarney town centre, next to the entrance to Killarney National Park, it boasts a lovely walled garden.

Meanwhile, Murphy’s of Killarney combines great hospitality with a superb central location. 

If you want to be closer to nature, consider booking a pod or luxury suite at Killarney Glamping at the Grove, Suites and Lodges.

Day 5: Ring of Kerry

Day five will be devoted to the delights of the Ring of Kerry — a 179km loop that offers incredible coastal views speckled with scenic villages.

First up, drive west towards Ladies View, a famous lookout point that was named for Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting, no less.

After taking in breath-taking views of Killarney’s lakes and mountains, continue your drive to the colorful village of Kenmare. Packed with boutiques and cafés, it’s a charming place to stop for coffee and pick up traditional Irish crafts.

Next, head to Caherdaniel on the Iveragh Peninsula where we suggest visiting Derrynane Beach or Derrynane House, the grand ancestral home of Irish politician Daniel O’Connell.

Come the afternoon, drive to Sneem to enjoy a pub lunch and wander its bright, quaint streets before beginning your loop back to Killarney, where you’ll spend the night.

Day 6: Cliffs of Moher and Galway

From the epic Cliffs of Moher, to the musical streets of Galway, day six shows why this itinerary is one of the best trips to Ireland to take over 10 days.

Travel time: 2.5-hour drive to the Cliffs of Moher, plus 1.5 hours to Galway.

Set off early from Killarney on a 2.5-hour srive to the Cliffs of Maher — one of Ireland’s most breath-taking natural wonders. 

On arrival, take a walk along the cliffs' well-maintained paths, enjoying panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Aran Islands, and the dramatic, sheer drops of the coastline. 

More natural magic awaits on the next stage of this day itinerary when, after driving 40 minutes to Burren National Park, you’ll be wowed by a limestone karst landscape of jagged rock formations, wildflowers and prehistoric tombs.

After visiting the Burren, continue your journey to Galway, a vibrant west coast city that’s known for its lively Latin Quarter and fresh seafood, especially oysters.

Where to stay in Galway

Accommodation in Galway covers everything from grand townhouses, to bright, budget-friendly hostels, among them The Nest Boutique Hostel, which we rate for comfort and facilities that punch well above its affordable cost.

For something fancier, Park House blends the laidback warmth of a boutique hotel with 4-star luxury, while the 5-star Ardawn House is elegant and homely.

Day 7: Kylemore Abbey and Connemara

Day 7 of this itinerary kicks off with a 1.5-hour drive from Galway to Kylemore Abbey — a romantic lakeside estate nestled in the heart of Connemara.

Spend the morning exploring the splendid 19th-century Gothic mansion — including its Victorian Walled Gardens and grand Neo-Gothic Church — before driving to Connemara National Park.

In just 15 minutes, you’ll be able to walk well-marked trails in this haven of boglands and majestic peaks. For example, the Diamond Hill Loop offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Twelve Bens mountains.

After driving back to Galway in the late afternoon, wind down with dinner in a local pub or seafood restaurant.

Day 8: Galway to Glendalough and Wicklow Mountains

Day 8 of this itinerary starts with a drive to Glendalough in the heart of Wicklow Mountains National Park.

Travel time: 2.5-hour drive to Glendalough, plus 1-hour drive to Dublin.

Home to a 6th-century monastic site that encompasses St. Kevin’s Church, a round tower and ancient stone crosses, this glaciated valley is surrounded by forests and dramatic mountains.

Spend the morning walking one of the trails here. The short Poulanass Waterfall loop, for example, is a wonderful way to appreciate the park’s wild beauty.

In the afternoon, drive through the park towards Sally Gap, a high mountain pass that offers sweeping views of rolling hills, heather-covered landscapes and streams. 

Be sure to stop to snap a photo from the Lough Tay viewpoint before driving to Dublin.

Day 9: Explore Dublin

The last full day of this rewarding way to see Ireland in 10 days has a more leisurely pace, kicking off with a visit to Kilmainham Gaol.

This historic prison played a significant role in Ireland’s fight for independence, with guided tours revealing detail on the lives of its former inmates and the country’s turbulent history.

Next, head to the National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts & History to discover Irish history and culture through artifacts, from military objects, through to textiles and furniture. 

In the afternoon, stroll nearby Phoenix Park, which happens to be one of the largest city parks in Europe. 

Founded as a royal hunting Park in the 1660s, and opened to the public in 1747, it boasts a resident herd of wild deer, historic landmarks like the Wellington Monument, zoological gardens, Victorian flower gardens, and charming tea rooms.

Day 10: Depart for home

With any luck, after packing your case and preparing to depart, you might just have time for a last pint of Guinness before heading to the airport on day ten of this Ireland itinerary.