6-Day Guide to Ireland

After landing in Dublin and checking in to your accommodation, enjoy a hearty Irish breakfast at a local cafe or restaurant. Visit Trinity College Dublin and explore the Book of Kells exhibition. If the weather is nice, take a leisurely stroll through the college's historic campus and visit the Long Room Library. Enjoy lunch at one of Dublin's bustling markets, such George's Street Arcade.

In the afternoon, explore Dublin Castle and its beautiful gardens. Take a guided tour to learn about the castle's history and significance. Then visit Christ Church Cathedral, one of Dublin's most iconic landmarks, and climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.

In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants or pubs in the area and listen to live traditional Irish music. Take a leisurely stroll along the River Liffey before retiring to your accommodation for the night.

Start your day by departing from Dublin in the morning and driving to Glendalough Monastic Site, one of Ireland's most beautiful and historic monastic sites. Explore the ruins of the ancient monastic settlement, including the round tower, cathedral, and iconic lakeside setting. Take a leisurely walk around Glendalough Upper Lake, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and stunning scenery. Keep an eye out for wildlife and take plenty of photos of the picturesque landscape.

Following your visit to Glendalough Upper Lake, drive to the nearby village of Laragh for lunch. There are several charming cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy a delicious meal, such as the Wicklow Heather Restaurant or Lynhams of Laragh.

After lunch, head to Powerscourt Estate, one of Ireland's finest country estates. Explore the magnificent gardens, which feature formal terraces, ornamental lakes and impressive statues. Don't miss the breathtaking view of the Powerscourt Waterfall, Ireland's highest waterfall. Take a guided tour of Powerscourt House, a stunning 18th-century mansion filled with period furnishings and artwork. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, including the Italian Garden, Japanese Garden and Walled Garden.

Before heading back to Dublin, stop by the charming village of Enniskerry. Take a walk around the village square and browse the boutiques and artisan shops. Enjoy dinner at one of the local pubs or restaurants.

Departing from Dublin, begin your scenic drive towards Cork, with a stopover in the historic town of Kilkenny. Explore the magnificent Kilkenny Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress boasting stunning gardens and panoramic views. Delve into Kilkenny's rich heritage by wandering through its quaint streets lined with colorful shops and traditional pubs.

Afterwards, resume your journey to Cork, where you'll be greeted by the bustling atmosphere of the English Market. Take your time perusing the market's stalls, brimming with an array of fresh produce, artisanal foods and local delicacies. Savor the vibrant flavors of Cork as you indulge in a culinary adventure, sampling everything from gourmet cheeses to freshly baked pastries.

Upon arrival in Cork, check into your accommodation, whether it's a charming boutique hotel or a cozy bed and breakfast. Unwind and freshen up before venturing out to dinner at a restaurant renowned for its farm-to-table cuisine, such as Perrotts Garden Bistro.

Set off on an unforgettable day trip from Cork to Killarney, beginning with an Instagram-worthy drive along the renowned Ring of Kerry. Along the way, pause to visit the villages of Sneem and Waterville, where you'll be enchanted by their quaint charm and breathtaking vistas of coastal cliffs and rolling hillsides.

Make a stop at the iconic Gap of Dunloe, where you'll have the opportunity to take a memorable boat trip through its rugged terrain of towering mountains and serene lakes. Continue your journey to Killarney National Park, a sprawling expanse of pristine wilderness and ancient woodlands. Explore the historic Muckross House and Gardens, a grand Victorian mansion surrounded by manicured gardens and scenic walking trails. Discover the park's diverse flora and fauna as you meander through its enchanting landscapes.

Before heading back to Cork, treat yourself to a hearty dinner at a traditional Irish pub in Killarney, such as Murphy's Bar & Townhouse, where you can sample classic dishes like hearty stews, fresh seafood and traditional Irish fare.

Today brings an unforgettable journey from Cork to Galway, with a stop at the iconic Cliffs of Moher. As you arrive, be prepared to be awestruck by the sheer majesty of these towering cliffs, offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and rugged coastline. Take your time to explore the visitor center, where interactive exhibits shed light on the geological formations and diverse wildlife that call this area home.

After soaking in the natural beauty of the Cliffs of Moher, continue your scenic drive to Galway, where you'll be greeted by the vibrant energy of this charming city. Check into your accommodation and unwind after your journey before venturing out to dinner at Kirwan's Lane, a renowned restaurant nestled in the heart of Galway's Latin Quarter. From succulent seafood to hearty stews, there's something to satisfy every palate. Immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of the restaurant, enhanced by live music and the warm hospitality of the staff.

After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through Galway's bustling Latin Quarter, where you'll discover a treasure trove of colorful shops, lively street performers and inviting pubs. Whether you're in search of unique souvenirs or a cozy spot to enjoy a pint of Guinness, the Latin Quarter offers something for everyone.

Start your day with a hearty Irish breakfast at McCambridge's of Galway, a popular spot known for its delicious food and cozy atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll through Eyre Square, one of Galway's main gathering places. Admire the statue of John F. Kennedy and the colorful flower beds before heading towards Shop Street. Browse the shops along Shop Street, where you'll find everything from traditional Aran sweaters to unique handmade crafts. Continue your walk to the Spanish Arch, a historic landmark overlooking the River Corrib. If time allows before lunch, visit the Galway City Museum, located near the Spanish Arch. Explore the museum's exhibits, which showcase the history and heritage of Galway city and its surrounding areas.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Ard Bia at Nimmo's, a renowned restaurant serving contemporary Irish cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Be sure to try their seafood chowder or a traditional Irish stew.

After lunch, take a scenic walk along the Salthill Promenade, which offers stunning views of Galway Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy the fresh sea air and maybe even dip your toes in the water if the weather permits.

Head back towards the city center and visit Galway Cathedral, a striking architectural landmark with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate wood carvings. Take some time to explore the cathedral's interior and peaceful grounds.

After a full day in Galway, it's time to drive back to Dublin for one last night before the flight home.