It’s important to remember that everyone has different travel preferences. While this is a perfect Ireland itinerary for us, your perfect itinerary might require some changes, so feel free to add or remove things that you might not enjoy. Have safe and happy travels!
7 Day Ireland Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Galway, Ireland by air or car
We fly into Dublin because the flights are usually less expensive and then drive to Galway since it only takes a couple of hours. From our experience, the roads are a little wider near Dublin, which means it’s a good way to ease yourself into driving, if you haven’t driven in Ireland before. If you prefer, you can just fly directly to Galway.
If you do choose to drive from Dublin, you can stop in Athlone about halfway to Galway for a meal and a walk around town. Depending on the time, Sean’s Bar might be open. They claim to be the oldest pub in Ireland. It’s a bit touristy, but if you’re already in the area, you might enjoy it.
If you’re not too jet lagged, you can also drive just south out of town to Clonmacnoise which is a ruined monastery. You’ll also be treated to views of the beautiful countryside.
Once you arrive in Galway, check into your hotel and consider a nap! The rest of your day can be spent walking around town and enjoying one of the many great bars and restaurants. Depending on the time of year, the Christmas Market might be open.
Day 2: Connemara National Park
The drive up to Connemara is stunning and the park offers great hiking options for all skill levels. If you are more adventurous you can hike to the top of Diamond Hill (Elevation: ~1,500 ft) where you’ll be rewarded with a great view of the surrounding area, and depending on visibility you might be able to see Kylemore Abbey in the distance.
Visitors can also opt for a shorter, more leisurely hike near the peak, but not up it. It still offers good views and will save your knees for the rest of the trip.
Afterwards, it’s only a short drive down the road to Kylemore Abbey to see the castle built in the 1800s and the monastery founded by Benedictine Nuns.
Day 3: Travel to Killarney, Ireland – See Cliffs of Moher on the way!
Killarney is a few hour drive from Galway and is home to Killarney National Park. On the way down it’s worth stopping at the iconic Cliffs of Moher. A visit to Ireland isn’t complete without taking in the beautiful cliffs. They extend for 14km along the Atlantic Ocean, and on a clear day will have you mesmerized.
Killarney is a smaller town which offers a nice change of pace from Galway or Dublin. For dinner, take in some live music and traditional food at one of the local pubs.
Day 4: Killarney National Park and Muckross Abbey
Killarney National Park has a lot to offer and several ways to see it. Torc Mountain is relatively short hike, albeit quite steep and potentially difficult for beginners, but provides a great view at the end. Additionally, Torc Waterfall is a perfect spot to get pictures and can be reached without hiking up the mountain.
Another great way to see the park is by horse. There are a number of riding stables, including Killarney Riding Stables, that offer short or long rides through the park. The guides do a great job of providing information about the park, and accommodate beginner or experienced riders. Keep your eye out for deer and other wildlife!
While you’re visiting the park check out Muckross Abbey for a chance to see more ruins. Nearby you can also get close to the lake for some nice pictures of the water and mountains.
Killarney is without a doubt one of our favorite places in Ireland and should be considered for any Ireland itinerary.
Day 5: Dingle Peninsula
There are a number of places along the Atlantic coast if you want more iconic scenery. We recommend the Dingle Peninsula. There are several islands off of the coast and the town is full of colorful shops and houses.
Also, if the weather is good you can drive through Conor Pass for views of the Peninsula.
Day 6 and 7: Dublin – Guinness, Library of Trinity College, and more!
We recommend spending a couple of days in Dublin if you’re a fan of cities. Dublin has a long list of great sites that you can easily fill two days seeing. I’ll list a few, but depending on your interests, there is likely something for everyone.
Beer drinkers might be interested in a tour of the Guinness Storehouse to learn the history behind the famous Irish beer. Alternatively, if you’re more of a whiskey fan consider the Old Jamison Distillery.
The Library of Trinity College is in my opinion one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. It’s likely you’ve seen pictures of it, but it’s worth seeing it in person. History lovers can also see St. Patrick’s Cathedral or Dublin Castle.
One of the most popular tourist bars is The Temple Bar. Enjoy a drink or if it’s too busy, check out one of many other bars and restaurants nearby.
An easy way to find fun things to do is through Airbnb’s Experiences tool. It allows locals to host activities. Check it out here.
Wrap up
Hopefully, this itinerary serves as a starting point for your next big trip! While we enjoyed these activities, make changes as necessary so the itinerary fits your preferences to get the most out of your trip. Also, if you are traveling for longer than 7 days, consider checking out activities in Northern Ireland, like Giant’s Causeway.
Click the link below for our top 15 things to do in Ireland for some ideas that might not have made this 7 day Ireland Itinerary.