8 day itinerary
Ireland
Personalized with:From Shannon airport to Dublin hitting all major tourist sights
Itinerary
Ireland is a stunning country with so much to offer, and I’m excited to help you plan an 8-day itinerary that starts at and ends in Dublin. Let’s dive right in!
Day 1: Arrival in Shannon and Explore
- Morning: Arrive at . Pick up your rental car (the best way to explore Ireland!) and head to , just a short drive away.
- Afternoon: Visit for a taste of medieval history. Stroll along the and check out the , which houses a collection of art and antiquities.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local pub. Try some traditional Irish stew or fish and chips. If you’re up for it, catch some live music!
Day 2: and
- Morning: After breakfast, drive to the (about 1.5 hours). Take in the breathtaking views and walk along the cliff paths.
- Afternoon: Head to (about 1.5 hours from the Cliffs). Explore the colorful streets, visit the , and maybe grab a bite at the famous .
- Evening: Enjoy dinner in . The seafood here is fantastic! If you’re feeling adventurous, check out a local pub for some traditional Irish music.
Day 3:
- Morning: Drive to (about 1 hour from ). Spend the morning hiking and enjoying the stunning landscapes.
- Afternoon: Visit , a beautiful Victorian castle set against a backdrop of mountains and lakes. Don’t forget to explore the gardens!
- Evening: Return to for dinner. Try a cozy restaurant and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Day 4: and
- Morning: Depart and head to the Burren region (about 1 hour). Explore the unique limestone landscape and visit the .
- Afternoon: Drive to (about 30 minutes) for lunch. Afterward, take a ferry to the if time allows, or just enjoy the coastal views.
- Evening: Return to for dinner. This area is known for its traditional music scene, so be sure to check out a local pub!
Day 5:
- Morning: Drive to Killarney (about 2.5 hours). Start your day with a visit to . Rent a bike or take a leisurely walk to see the stunning .
- Afternoon: Explore the park further, perhaps taking a jaunting car ride (horse-drawn carriage) to see the beautiful scenery.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner in Killarney. The town has a lively atmosphere, perfect for a night out!
Day 6:
- All Day: Set out early for the famous drive. This scenic route offers breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, and the coastline. Stop at charming towns like and along the way.
- Lunch: Pack a picnic or stop at a local café.
- Evening: Return to Killarney for dinner and relax after a day of exploring.
Day 7: and
- Morning: Depart Killarney and head to (about 1 hour). Don’t forget to kiss the for the gift of eloquence!
- Afternoon: Explore the beautiful gardens and then drive to (about 20 minutes). Visit the for lunch and enjoy the local food scene.
- Evening: Spend the evening in , perhaps visiting the historic or enjoying a meal at a local restaurant.
Day 8: Dublin
- Morning: Drive to Dublin (about 2.5 hours). Once you arrive, start your day at to see the .
- Afternoon: Explore and the . Take a stroll through the vibrant area.
- Evening: For your last night, enjoy a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant. If you have time, catch a show at the or enjoy some live music in a pub.
Tips:
- Driving: Remember that in Ireland, you drive on the left side of the road!
- Weather: Be prepared for changing weather; layers and a waterproof jacket are your best friends.
- Local Culture: Engage with locals; they’re often more than happy to share stories and recommendations.
I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your 8 days in Ireland! Enjoy every moment of your adventure! 🍀