Ireland 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Dublin Exploration

  • Morning: Start your day at Trinity College Dublin to see the famous Book of Kells (€12-15 per person). Take a stroll through Temple Bar, a lively area filled with street performers, pubs, and restaurants.
  • Afternoon: Visit Kilmainham Gaol (€8-10 per person), a former prison turned museum that played a significant role in Ireland’s struggle for independence. Explore the Guinness Storehouse (€25-30 per person), a seven-story building that tells the story of Ireland’s iconic stout.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Irish music and pub grub at O’Donoghue’s or The Brazen Head, Dublin’s oldest pub.

Things to Know:

  • Dublin is a walkable city, but you can also use public transportation (€2-5 per ride) or taxis (approx. €10-15).
  • Be prepared for changeable weather; bring layers and waterproof gear.
  • Try Irish cuisine like fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, or full Irish breakfast.

Day 2: Dublin to Kilkenny

  • Morning: Drive to Kilkenny (approx. 2 hours) and visit Kilkenny Castle (€5-10 per person), a 12th-century castle with beautiful gardens.
  • Afternoon: Explore the medieval town of Kilkenny, including the Black Abbey and St. Canice’s Cathedral.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Irish music at a local pub like The Hole in the Wall or The Pumphouse.

Transportation:

  • Rent a car (approx. €40-60 per day) for flexibility, but be aware that driving in Ireland can be challenging.
  • Alternatively, use public transportation (Bus Éireann, approx. €10-20 per person).

Day 3: Kilkenny to Ring of Kerry

  • Morning: Drive to Killorglin (approx. 2.5 hours) and explore the scenic Dingle Peninsula.
  • Afternoon: Continue to the Ring of Kerry (approx. 1 hour), a stunning coastal route with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Stop at the Gap of Dunloe, a narrow mountain pass.
  • Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood at a local restaurant in Killorglin or Cahirsiveen.

Things to Know:

  • The Ring of Kerry is a popular tourist route; expect crowds and long drives.
  • Be prepared for narrow roads and limited parking.

Day 4: Dingle Peninsula

  • Morning: Drive to Dingle (approx. 1 hour) and take a boat tour to see Fungie the Dolphin, a friendly resident who has been living in the harbor since 1984.
  • Afternoon: Explore Dingle’s colorful streets, visit the Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium (€10-15 per person), or take a hike on Mount Brandon.
  • Evening: Enjoy traditional Irish music and seafood at a local pub like Foxy John’s or The Fisherman’s Bar.

Visa Requirements:

  • US citizens do not need a visa to enter Ireland, but must have a valid passport.
  • Check the official government website for specific requirements based on your nationality.

Day 5: Return to Dublin

  • Morning: Drive back to Dublin (approx. 4 hours) and visit the EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum (€15-20 per person), which tells the story of Ireland’s diaspora.
  • Afternoon: Explore the trendy neighborhoods of Portobello or Rathmines, known for their vintage shops, cafes, and street art.
  • Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant like Chapter One or L’Ecrivain.

Other Things to Know:

  • Ireland uses the Euro as its currency; exchange rates may vary.
  • Tipping is not expected but is appreciated for good service (5-10%).
  • Be respectful of Irish culture and history, especially when visiting historical sites.