When it comes to travel destinations, there's no place on earth like Ireland. Think lush green fields, rugged mountains, colorful villages, and ancient castles; that's what Ireland's all about.
Ireland is a small nation; it only takes 8 hours to drive the whole length of the country, so you can pack a lot into one trip. Seven days is the perfect amount of time to get a taste of what Ireland has to offer. You won't see everything, but you'll get a sample of the Emerald Isle's highlights, including Dublin, Galway, and more.
In this article, we'll provide you with the ultimate travel itinerary for a 7-day trip to Ireland, showcasing some of the country's top destinations you don't want to miss!
Day 1 - Dublin
Almost everyone will start their seven-day trip to Ireland in the buzzing capital of Dublin, as most international flights into the country land there.
Since you'll be on a bit of a time crunch, staying within the city center is best to get your bearings and see some of the main attractions. Start your day off with a visit to Trinity College to see the world-famous Book of Kells before strolling over to Temple Bar to enjoy some traditional Irish music in the city's cultural quarter.
As the day comes to a close, squeeze in a last-minute visit to the Guinness Storehouse to learn about the country's most popular alcoholic beverage and try some for yourself!
Day 2 - Waterford
Get up bright and early because it's time to head down south to the beautiful county of Waterford. The drive from Dublin to Waterford is around 2 hours, so getting there won't take long.
You'll have a couple of options for spending your time in Waterford. Take on the wonderful Coumshingaun hike, cycle the length of the Waterford Greenway, or get up close to see Mahon Falls.
If the outdoors isn't your thing, you can take a tour of Waterford Crystal Factory or learn about the county's Viking history at Reginald's Tower.
Day 3 - Cork
On day 3, you'll travel 1 hour and 40 minutes further south to Ireland's second-largest city, Cork.
Cork has so much to offer visitors. Make the most of your day visiting Blarney Castle to kiss the Blarney Stone or heading to the 100-acre Fota Wildlife Park, where many of the animals roam freely outside of their enclosures.
You can't leave Cork without trying some of its fabulous seafood offerings. Be sure to check out Goldie in the heart of Cork City to try their Rossmore Oysters; you won't regret it!
Day 4 - Killarney
It's day 4, and you're going to the neighboring county of Kerry to visit the cutest little town in the country, Killarney.
There's so much to do in Killarney, so you'll want to arrive as early as possible; luckily, the drive is only around an hour from Cork City. Start off by popping in to see Muckross Abbey, then drive through the stunning Gap of Dunloe before catching a sunset at Ladies View.
If you're an avid hiker, Ireland's highest mountain is close to Killarney; it's called Carrauntoohil. It's no easy trek to the top, but it sure will give you an adrenaline buzz like never before.
Day 5 - Cliffs Of Moher
One of the key sights on everyone's 7-day trip to Ireland is the Cliffs of Moher in county Clare. They're a dramatic set of vertical sea cliffs looking out over the Atlantic Ocean with views of the Aran Islands from the trail on a clear day.
The journey between the Cliffs of Moher from Killarney takes 2 and a half hours, as long as the traffic is on your side. If you don't have a vehicle, multiple tour companies offer day trips from Ireland's biggest cities.
If you want to see the Cliffs of Moher from a different perspective, you can take a ferry with Doolin Ferry Company to sail right up to them. If you're lucky, you might get to see some puffins that are often in the area.
Day 6 - Galway City
There's no better place in Ireland to experience some craic agus ceol (fun and music Irish style) than in Galway City.
Split up into little districts, all possessing its own unique allure, the city of Galway has it all. The Latin Quarter is home to the likes of the Spanish Arch and the farmer's market, while Salthill has the promenade where you can watch diving enthusiasts have a dip or have a seaside saunter along the beach.
If you still have some sightseeing left in you, why don't you take a trip to see Kylemore Abbey in Connemara? This castle with a neogothic church has housed a Benedictine order of Nuns for over 100 years; visitors will have the chance to get an insight into their lives and roam the grounds to learn about the history.
It's an hour and 20-minute trip from the Cliffs of Moher to Galway City
Day 7 - Return To Dublin for your flight home or continue on your trip
It's the worst day of the trip: home time! If you're taking a flight, it will most likely be out of Dublin Airport. Some flights do operate out of Shannon Airport, which is close to Galway, so make sure to check your options before booking anything.
On the way back to Dublin from Galway, there are some stops you can make if you've got some extra time. Take a tour of the Tullamore Dew Distillery in county Offaly, or drop into Kildare Village for some last-minute shopping to pick up some souvenirs.
The drive from Galway City to Dublin Airport will take 2 hours and 25 minutes.
Use This Travel Itinerary for Your 7-Day Trip to Ireland!
Seeing Ireland in 7 days is totally doable with a proper plan in place like the one we've just provided to you. If you follow this itinerary, you'll see some of Ireland's finest cities, adorable towns, castles, and mesmerizing landscapes.
Come on, the Emerald Isle awaits!
