16 day itinerary for Ireland

Itinerary

Ireland is a stunning country with breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. With 16 days to explore, you can experience a mix of urban adventures, scenic hikes, and charming villages. Let’s dive into an ideal itinerary that balances hiking with cultural experiences!

## Day 1: Arrival in Dublin

• Morning: Arrive in Dublin. Check into your hotel or accommodation.
• Afternoon: Explore Trinity College and see the Book of Kells. Stroll through the beautiful grounds.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a traditional Irish pub in Temple Bar. Try some live music!

## Day 2: Dublin

• Morning: Visit Dublin Castle and the Chester Beatty Library.
• Afternoon: Take a walk in Phoenix Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe. You can rent a bike if you’re feeling energetic!
• Evening: Explore the vibrant streets of Dublin and have dinner in the city center.

## Day 3: Dublin to Glendalough

• Morning: Rent a car and drive to Glendalough (about 1.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Hike the Glendalough Valley. The Spinc and Glenealo Valley loop is a fantastic option (about 9 km).
• Evening: Stay overnight in a cozy B&B in the area.

## Day 4: Glendalough to Kilkenny

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and then head to Kilkenny (about 1 hour).
• Afternoon: Explore Kilkenny Castle and the medieval streets. Don’t miss St. Canice’s Cathedral.
• Evening: Dinner in one of Kilkenny’s charming restaurants.

## Day 5: Kilkenny to Killarney

• Morning: Drive to Killarney (about 2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit Killarney National Park. Hike the Muckross Lake loop (about 10 km).
• Evening: Enjoy a traditional Irish meal in Killarney town.

## Day 6: Ring of Kerry

• All ## Day: Take a scenic drive around the Ring of Kerry. Stop for short hikes along the way, like the Kerry Way trail near Killarney.
• Evening: Return to Killarney for the night.

## Day 7: Dingle Peninsula

• All ## Day: Drive to the Dingle Peninsula. Hike the Slieve Mish Mountains or the scenic trails around Slea Head.
• Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood in Dingle town and perhaps catch some traditional music.

## Day 8: Dingle to Cliffs of Moher

• Morning: Depart Dingle and head towards the Cliffs of Moher (about 2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Hike along the Cliffs of Moher coastal trail for stunning views.
• Evening: Stay in nearby Doolin, known for its music scene.

## Day 9: The Burren

• All ## Day: Explore the unique landscape of the Burren. Hike the Burren Way or visit the Aillwee Cave.
• Evening: Return to Doolin for dinner and music.

## Day 10: Galway

• Morning: Drive to Galway (about 1.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore the colorful streets, visit the Spanish Arch, and enjoy the local shops.
• Evening: Dinner in a local pub with live music.

## Day 11: Connemara National Park

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Connemara National Park. Hike the Diamond Hill trail (about 7 km) for breathtaking views.
• Evening: Return to Galway for the night.

## Day 12: Galway to Westport

• Morning: Drive to Westport (about 1.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Explore Westport House and take a stroll along the Great Western Greenway.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in Westport and relax.

## Day 13: Croagh Patrick

• All ## Day: Hike Croagh Patrick, Ireland’s holy mountain (about 7 km). The views from the top are absolutely worth it!
• Evening: Return to Westport for the night.

## Day 14: Westport to Belfast

• Morning: Drive to Belfast (about 3.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Visit the Titanic Belfast museum and explore the city center.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the Cathedral Quarter.

## Day 15: Giant’s Causeway

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to the Giant’s Causeway (about 1.5 hours from Belfast). Hike the coastal paths and enjoy the stunning rock formations.
• Evening: Return to Belfast for your last night in Ireland.

## Day 16: Departure from Dublin

• Morning: Drive back to Dublin (about 2 hours). Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Afternoon: Depart from Dublin.

And there you have it! A delightful mix of city life, stunning hikes, and the beauty of the Irish countryside. Make sure to pack your hiking boots and a good camera—you’ll want to capture all those breathtaking views! Enjoy your adventure in Ireland! 🍀