Ireland is a beautiful country that offers rolling hills, friendly residents, and a culture brimming with fascinating history. There is something magical about the Emerald Isle, from Dublin’s bustling streets and famous Temple Bar district to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher; there is so much to see that it can be challenging to figure out where to start.
Whether you are traveling alone or as part of a group, this article will offer practical advice on transportation, accommodation, and experiences to fill a 7-day stay in Ireland. Following this guide will let you experience the best of what the country has to offer without feeling rushed, and with enough time to stop and sample some of the local food and drink as you go.
Day 1-2: Dublin – Your Gateway to Ireland
Dublin is the ideal place to start your Irish adventure, not only because the international airport is located here, but also because it is a fabulous city where medieval history seamlessly blends with modern culture.
Start day 1 with a visit to Trinity College to see the Book of Kells – an illustrated religious text containing four gospels – then browse the cobblestone streets of Temple Bar. This area also comes alive at night, with street performers, live music, and lively pubs and bars serving traditional Irish stews and pints of Guinness. The Brazen Head is the oldest pub in the city and offers the perfect atmosphere to kick off your Irish adventure.
Day 2 brings a deeper exploration of Dublin and the surrounding area. Dublin Castle captures centuries of Irish history, while nearby Christ Church Cathedral is a must-see for architecture fans. Spending an afternoon at either the Guinness Storehouse or Jameson Distillery makes for great entertainment, while a gentle stroll through the majestic St. Stephen’s Green is a great way to close out your Dublin adventure.
Day 3: Dublin to Cork via Kilkenny
Day 3 sees you leaving Dublin – not too early – and setting out for a scenic drive south down to Kilkenny. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours (75 miles) and once you arrive, you can enjoy a spot of lunch and some gentle exploration. Kilkenny boasts unique medieval charm. The town features an imposing castle and narrow lanes lined with vibrant shops. The photogenic town center showcases well-preserved medieval buildings. After lunch, you could take a guided tour of the castle and its stunning gardens, before making the scenic and relatively short two-hour drive down to Cork.
Exploring Cork is a straightforward experience due to its compact nature, leading you to end your day at one of the city’s many seafood restaurants or even The SpitJack, which is regarded as one of the best places to eat in Cork, whether it’s brunch, lunch, or an evening meal.
Wherever you choose, the city’s cuisine will keep you fueled ahead of your local excursions tomorrow.
Day 4: Cork and Surroundings
For a day in Cork, it’s best to start at the English Market, which dates to Victorian times and is the place locals go to get fresh produce, cheeses, and “drisheen,” a traditional Irish black pudding. From there, a trip to the Gothic Revival-style St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral is an impressive sight to behold, with its detailed stonework and imposing presence.
After a quick lunch, your journey continues out of the city to Blarney Castle. It’s just 15 minutes outside of the city and will give brave characters the chance to climb up and kiss the famous Blarney Stone.
Beyond the stone, the castle has beautiful gardens for guests to explore before making the trip back to Cork for a final meal at one of the city’s many acclaimed restaurants. Solo diners might visit a bar where the atmosphere is always fun, the beer is delicious, and the food is hot. Groups may elect to check out a more traditional Irish music venue for a night of revelry.
If you are looking to gamble while in Cork (or anywhere else in Ireland), you will not find the traditional Vegas-style casinos. Rather, you will find private men’s clubs – locations like Macau Casino and Restaurantare a great choice – that offer a similar experience but under a different regulation framework. Alternatively, if you prefer gambling using your phone, you’ll have the choice of over 100 Irish casino sites all offering classic casino games in the palm of your hand.
Day 5: Cork to Killarney and Ring of Kerry
Today is the day for you to tackle one of the most spectacular and scenic drives that Ireland has to offer. Traveling from Cork to Killarney takes you over the 111-mile-long Ring of Kerry, with its stunning coastal and mountain backdrops. There is no need to rush this part of the journey, as there are plenty of rest stops and places to see along the way. Allow at least four hours to complete the whole circuit, stopping at Ladies View and the colorful village of Sneem.
With the day done, it’s off to Killarney for a meal and some entertainment, both of which are bountiful. The town is well set for tour groups and solo travelers, with many choosing to spend an evening enjoying some pub grub along with one of the nightly live Irish bands.
Day 6: Killarney to Galway via Cliffs of Moher
Start your penultimate day in Ireland with a pleasant early morning stroll through Killarney National Park. Here, you are likely to spot wild red deer roaming around the edges of the different lakes, while the sun rises over the nearby mountains. The park offers walking trails for everyone, from families to fitness enthusiasts, meaning there is no reason not to explore Killarney National Park.
After grabbing a quick coffee, it is time for the Cliffs of Moher. These stunning cliffs rise over 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, providing some of the most dramatic scenery in the country. You should plan to spend a good 90 minutes at the cliffs, as even the Visitor Center is a fascinating place to spend some time. At the same time, coastal paths provide a range of views and breathtaking vistas for you to enjoy.
With the cliffs conquered, it is time to head over to the final stop of the trip, Galway. If everything has gone according to plan, you should arrive just in time for dinner, with the Latin Quarter being a prime spot for good food and a fun experience.
Galway is a vibrant city full of energy, fueled by university students and the lively sounds of traditional music flowing from every open pub window. It is an infectious atmosphere whether traveling alone or as part of a group.
Day 7: Galway and Departure Preparation
Your final morning in Ireland should be spent exploring the medieval streets and colorful shop fronts that make Galway so magical. If you time your visit right, you’ll find a bustling Saturday market offering an abundance of local crafts and foods between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you need to grab any holiday gifts or souvenirs, Quay Street is the place to shop, especially if you prefer to buy genuine gifts rather than gaudy trinkets.
If your schedule permits, you could always squeeze in a little trip to the Aran Islands, where you can experience the full force of Irish culture. However, this is a full-day trip and should only be done if you are willing to sacrifice time in Galway. You have a three-hour journey back to Dublin for your flights home, so if you do visit the islands, make sure to leave yourself enough time to avoid feeling stressed or rushed by the end of the day.
Essential Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
With the itinerary for your trip to Ireland planned, it is time to consider a few travel tips before you leave home. The weather in Ireland can change quickly, so it is essential to pack for a range of weather conditions, regardless of the time of year you travel.
Ireland is one of the most popular destinations for international travelers visiting Europe, so it is vital that you plan and book rental cars and accommodations as early as possible to ensure you can stay at the places you want.
Also, remember that Ireland is a social country. The Irish appreciate politeness but love conversation even more. They are always willing to offer recommendations to tourists eager to experience the country’s culture and heritage.
More than anything, Ireland is a beautiful country with an appetite for fun. The best tip for any visitor is to relax and embrace the experience.
