How to Travel Ireland in 7 Days: The Best Itinerary

I fell in love with Ireland the moment my feet touched its verdant, undulating hills.

There’s some magic about the mix of old castles, cozy pubs, and gorgeous coastal scenery that makes you feel like you’re living inside of a storybook.

I recall my first visit as if it was yesterday, downing pints of Guinness in a cozy Dublin pub, roaming misty, ancient ruins and talking with locals who felt like old friends.

If you’re reading this you’re likely dreaming of your own Irish adventure and trying to figure out how to spend a week in this magical land.

The itinerary is full of all of the things I’ve loved there — and some secrets that I wish I’d had the chance to discover earlier on.

It’s a combination of beautiful cities, spectacular countryside and coastal drives that will have you pulling over every five minutes to take a photograph.

If you’re looking for history, stunning scenery or simply the perfect Irish breakfast, this guide is for you.

So put on your rain jacket (you’ll want it!), and let’s get right into how to best explore Ireland in a mere seven days.

Day 1: Arrive in Dublin – Discover Ireland’s Country Capital

Begin your adventure in Dublin, the spirited hub of Ireland.

Your first day is about getting a sense of the city’s lively blend of the old and the new.

If possible, arrive early in Deep you maximum distance, and going straight to the Temple Bar area.

Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also a good introduction to Dublin’s vibrant pub culture.

Drink a pint of Guinness watching the live music, a great way to start your adventure in Ireland.

Once you take that in, walk down to Trinity College to see the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript dating back over a thousand years.

The Long Room Library, with its high shelves and dusty old books, is like travelling back in time.

Take your time; this is one of those places that you want to savor.

From there, stroll over to Grafton Street, Dublin’s main shopping thoroughfare.

Buskers play everything from old-time Irish tunes to pop covers, creating a lively, upbeat feel throughout the street.

Grab a quick coffee break at Bewley’s Café and watch the world go by. If you’re feeling peckish, stop into The Woollen Mills, a snug joint near the Ha’penny Bridge; its fish and chips are the real deal.

End your day with a trip to the Guinness Storehouse.

Even if you’re not a beer person, the Gravity Bar at the top has panoramic views of the city worth the price of admission alone.

By the time you return to your hotel, you should feel like you’ve got a bedraggled but good grasp of Dublin’s rhythm — and that you’re ready to hit the road tomorrow.

Day 2: Dublin to Kilkenny – Castles, Cathedrals & Medieval Magic

Wave goodbye to Dublin and make your way south to Kilkenny, a medieval city bursting with history and charm.

It’s roughly a one-and-a-half-hour drive, and it’s easy and picturesque, cramming in your first real taste of Ireland’s countryside.

First stop: Kilkenny Castle.

This 12th-century fortress is remarkably well-preserved, and its extensive gardens provide perfect areas for a leisurely stroll.

Inside, discover grand rooms with ornate decor that speak to Ireland’s noble ancestry. For art lovers, the Butler Gallery housed inside the castle is worth checking out.

After the castle, visit St. Canice’s Cathedral and, if you’re feeling ambitious, walk up the Round Tower.

The views at the top are amazing, providing a bird’s-eye impression of Kilkenny’s medieval streets.

It takes a little of a climb, but the view of the city’s old-world rooftops and distant hills makes it worth it.

For lunch, get a bite at Kyteler’s Inn.

The pub dates to the 13th century and was once owned by an accused witch.

It’s one of those quirky places with history, hearty food and a ghost story or two to tell.

Try the beef and Guinness stew, it’s comforting as it sounds.

Spend the afternoon strolling the Medieval Mile, a stretch of historic streets filled with boutique shops, quirky cafes and artisan craft stores.

Finish your day as a local might do, with a quiet pint in one of Kilkenny’s old-school pubs, such as Matt the Millers, where you’ll probably encounter live music that will make you feel you have time-turned.

Day 3: Kilkenny to Cork — Rebel City and Blarney Castle

Today, you’ll continue on to Cork, known as “Rebel City” of Ireland.

The two-hour drive from Kilkenny to Cork can be longer if you detour to visit the Rock of Cashel.

This medieval collection of buildings, perched on a limestone hill, is a dramatic site in itself, and looks straight out of a fantasy movie.

Take the guided tour if you can — it’s full of amazing stories of kings and bishops that animate the place.

When you get to Cork, you won’t waste any time before diving into the city’s vibrant food scene.

Begin at the English Market, a covered food market that dates back to the 18th century.

Artisanal cheeses, fresh seafood and more can be put to the test here for a taste of some of the finest local produce.

I recall snagging a sandwich from the venerable O’Flynn’s Gourmet Sausages stand and thinking, “This could be the best lunch I’ve ever eaten.”

Next, head to Blarney Castle, located outside of Cork city center.

Sure, kissing the Blarney Stone is a bit of a cliché, but when you’re here, it seems a rite of passage.

Also, the castle grounds are spectacular — there are beautiful gardens, hidden caves and even a poison garden filled with dangerous plants (really, don’t touch anything!).

Evening: Explore Cork’s buzzing nightlife.

The city has a music scene, so listen for live shows playing in pubs like Sin é or the Oliver Plunkett.

With a ton of history, great food and a sprinkle of local charm, you’ll understand why Cork is affectionately known as the real capital of Ireland.

Day 4: Cork to Killarney – Ring of Kerry Drive

It’s all about embracing the land of legends today as you head to Killarney.

Get up early, eat breakfast at a place like Nash 19, and hit the famous Ring of Kerry drive.

It’s a roughly 111-mile loop, showcasing some of the most stunning coastal and mountain views that Ireland has to offer.

But just before you really get into the whole loop, make a quick stop at Muckross House and Gardens just outside Killarney.

This 19th-century Victorian mansion is set amid achingly beautiful gardens that seem to spend most of the year in bloom, and views of the lakeside are postcard-perfect.

When you return to the Ring of Kerry, you’ll drive through charming towns like Killorglin and Glenbeigh, where it’s worth taking a break to stretch your legs and soak up the sights.

One of my favorite places along the route is Cahersiveen — home to derelict stone forts that look as if they’ve swooped in from a fantasy novel.

Look for Skellig Michael in the distance; the ancient monastic island made an appearance in “Star Wars,” and it’s every bit as magical IRL.

Be sure to stop in the small town of Waterville for lunch — a coastal gem where you can grab fresh seafood at The Smugglers Inn.

It’s a lovely spot, with ocean views to kick back before you go on your way.

Continue to the picturesque village of Sneem in the afternoon, with its colorful buildings that appear straight out of a storybook.

Stop for a coffee at the Blue Bull, then continue on to Ladies View, a scenic overlook with breathtaking views of Killarney National Park.

Settle into your Killaeney accommodation, then enjoy a hearty Irish dinner at The Laurels Pub — famed for its warm welcome and delicious traditional meals.

Day 5: Killarney National Park: Hiking and Lakes with Jaunting Cars

This is one of those places you could spend days wanderingabout and still not run out of things to see.

Begin with a morning hike to Torc Waterfall, an easy trail through dense forest that ends at a beautiful cascade.

If you’re feeling up to it, continue hiking up to Torc Mountain for panoramic views that reach all the way to the lakes below.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head back down into Killarney town and grab a bite at Quinlan’s Fish Shop.

Their fish and chips are among the best I’ve tasted — crispy outside, flaky within and delivered with a smile. It’s the ideal fuel for your afternoon excursions.

Spend your afternoon seeing the park’s famous lakes via a jaunting car — those old-fashioned horse-drawn carriages that make you feel like you’re traveling back in time.

Your guide will share local lore while you clip-clop by ancient oaks and glimmering water.

Do not miss Ross Castle, a 15th-century tower house overlooking the shores of Lough Leane.

Taking the guided tour to hear about the castle’s storied past and its role in Irish history is well worth it.

Come evening, return to Killarney town, where Bricín offers a snug spot for a homely dinner of classic Irish dishes.

Day 6: Killarney to Galway — Cliff of Moher and the Wild Atlantic Way

Brace yourself for one of your most iconic days of your Irish adventure.

Today, you’ll travel from Killarney to Galway, with a stop at the iconic Cliffs of Moher.

If you can leave early, it will maximize your time, and the scenic drive through County Clare is lovely.

When you reach the Cliffs of Moher you’ll be greeted by the stunning sight of dramatic rock faces tumbling into the Atlantic Ocean.

There’s a reason these cliffs are among Ireland’s most popular attractions — they’ll take your breath away.

Stroll along the coastal path, stopping to photograph waves crashing against the cliff or a puffin sailing by.

On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Aran Islands.

After soaking up the views, stop for lunch at Gus O’Connor’s Pub in Doolin, a picturesque village famous for its traditional Irish music.

The seafood chowder here is a must; it’s rich building-block of a dish, ideal for warming up after a bracing windy walk along the cliffs.

You are on the Wild Atlantic Way now, so drive on in the direction of Galway, a city with a strong artistic establishment, its colourful streets and buzzing pubs.

Check in to your hotel, then explore Eyre Square and the Latin Quarter, where roving performers and live music make for a lively night in the city.

End your night at Tigh Neachtain, one of Galway’s oldest pubs, where you can sip a pint and talk with locals and other travelers about your day’s adventures.

Day 7: Visit on Galway and Connemara – A Good Conclusion

On your last day, take your time wandering the eclectic, bohemian city of Galway.

Beg for breakfast at Ard Bia at Nimmos, a lovely café near the Spanish Arch serving good breakfast foods and good coffee.

Lose yourself in the vibrant streets littered with quaint shops, galleries, and cafes in the morning.

An introduction to the city’s history can be found at St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church and the Galway City Museum.

If you’re up for a final adventure, consider a scenic drive out to Connemara, a rugged region famed for its wild beauty, glittering lakes and pretty villages.

Kylemore Abbey, a lakeside castle set amidst beautiful gardens. And even if you’ve had your fill of castles by now, this one will still take your breath away.

The Victorian walled garden here is a hidden gem, ideal for a quiet walk.

Return to Galway for a final meal — The Quay Street Kitchen is an excellent choice for modernized takes on traditional Irish fare.

As you eat, contemplate the previous week filled with adventure, history, and breathtaking views.

Ireland knows how to welcome you home, and while your time is almost up the memories you’ve made will follow you long after you leave the land of your ancients.