Itinerary for 7 day trip to Southern Ireland

Southern Ireland is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich history, and charming towns. Let’s craft an exciting 7-day itinerary that includes castles, museums, and those breathtaking cliffs you’re eager to see. Grab your walking shoes and your camera—adventure awaits!

Day 1: Arrival in Dublin

Morning:

Arrive in Dublin and check into your hotel. Take a moment to freshen up and get ready for your first day of exploration!

Afternoon:

Head to . This historic castle has been at the heart of the history and evolution of the city. Don’t miss the State Apartments and the beautiful gardens.

Evening:

Stroll over to the within the castle grounds. It’s a hidden gem with a fantastic collection of manuscripts and art.
Enjoy dinner at a traditional Irish pub in the Temple Bar area. Try some Irish stew or fish and chips!

Day 2: Dublin to Kilkenny

Morning:

After breakfast, take a train or drive to Kilkenny (about 1.5 hours). Once you arrive, head straight to . Explore the beautiful grounds and the impressive interior.

Afternoon:

Visit the for a tour of Ireland’s oldest brewery. Learn about the brewing process and enjoy a tasting session.

Evening:

Wander through the medieval streets of Kilkenny and have dinner at a local restaurant. Try some local dishes and perhaps catch some live music!

Day 3: Kilkenny to Waterford

Morning:

Depart Kilkenny and head to Waterford (about 30 minutes). Start your day at the . Witness the artistry behind the famous crystal and maybe pick up a souvenir!

Afternoon:

Visit the . This museum showcases the rich history of Waterford from the Viking era to the present day.

Evening:

Enjoy a leisurely dinner in Waterford. The city has some great seafood options, so don’t miss out!

Day 4: Waterford to Killarney

Morning:

Depart Waterford and drive to Killarney (about 2 hours). Once you arrive, head to . Take a walk or rent a bike to explore the stunning scenery.

Afternoon:

Visit , a beautiful Victorian mansion set against the backdrop of the lakes. The gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Evening:

Have dinner in Killarney town. There are plenty of cozy pubs and restaurants to choose from. Try some local lamb or beef dishes!

Day 5:

All Day:

Today is all about the ! This scenic drive is a must-see. Start early and take your time to stop at various viewpoints, such as and .
Visit on the shores of Lough Leane. You can take a boat trip on the lake if time allows.

Evening:

Return to Killarney for dinner. Reflect on the day’s stunning views and maybe enjoy some traditional Irish music in a local pub.

Day 6: and Galway

Morning:

Depart Killarney and head towards the (about 2.5 hours). These iconic cliffs are breathtaking! Take your time to walk along the paths and enjoy the views.

Afternoon:

After soaking in the cliffs, drive to Galway (about 1.5 hours). Explore the vibrant streets, and don’t miss the to learn about the city’s history and culture.

Evening:

Enjoy dinner in Galway’s Latin Quarter. The atmosphere is lively, and you’ll find plenty of options for delicious food and drinks.

Day 7: Return to Dublin

Morning:

After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll around Galway, perhaps visiting the or the for some last-minute shopping.

Afternoon:

Head back to Dublin (about 2.5 hours). If time allows, stop at , an ancient monastic site with impressive ruins and a beautiful setting.

Evening:

Arrive in Dublin and enjoy a farewell dinner. Consider dining at a restaurant with a view of the River Liffey or a cozy spot in the city center.

Bonus Tips:

Make sure to check the opening hours of attractions in advance, as they can vary.
Consider getting a rental car for flexibility, especially for the scenic drives.
Don’t forget to try some local desserts, like soda bread or apple tart!

I hope this itinerary gets you excited for your trip to Southern Ireland! Each day is packed with history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Enjoy every moment! 🌍✨