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Introducing Ireland

Make the most out of your trip to Ireland.
Ireland's influence on global pop culture is undeniable—it's the land of "40 Shades of Green" and Guinness beer, after all—but this little island off the west coast of Europe also holds centuries of history, creating a curious blend of old and new in one compact destination. The rugged southwest is any traveler's dream—think golden beaches, vertical rock cliff faces, and mountains hugging the coast—while the "Ancient East" is home to ruins dating back thousands of years. See the highlights in a few days, or take your time getting to know the many hues of the Emerald Isle.

When is the best time to visit?
Ireland is best visited between March and October. June, July, and August are the busiest months for international travel, due to the increased chance of dry weather. That said, rain isn't as persistent or frequent here as you might think—the Irish climate is actually quite mild, with average temperatures only changing by a few degrees from March to October. This makes it ideal for active travel, with world-class hiking and cycling throughout the country. Learn more

Where should you go in Ireland?
Southwest Ireland is a must for first-time visitors. Killarney, which sits on the eastern end of the Iveragh Peninsula, is a good jumping off point to explore the world-famous Ring of Kerry. It's also on the outskirts of Killarney National Park, a stunning natural landscape of 26,000 acres.

From here, you can take your pick from locations dotted all along the Wild Atlantic Way, a 1,500-mile driving route running from Mizen Head in the southwest to Malin Head in the northwest. The west coast boasts the iconic Cliffs of Moher, charming towns, and traditional Irish music, while further north lies the bohemian city of Galway. Venture west from here and you'll get to boggy and mountainous Connemara, home to Ireland's most unique landscapes. Learn more

How many days do I need?
Ireland may be small, but it's not a country to be rushed. If you only have a week, immersing yourself in one small region is the best way to see what makes the Irish tick—consider spending 2 nights in Dublin and taking a few days to explore the rural west coast. To experience multiple regions, you can easily fill 2 (or even 3!) weeks of well-spent travel. For an active trip, you might take a few days to relax in the countryside before a week of hiking or cycling on the west coast, followed by cultural exploration in one of Ireland's urban areas.

Getting Around Ireland
Self-driving in Ireland is popular, and major roadways connect Dublin to cities including Galway, Cork, and Limerick (and Shannon Airport). Some road trips do rely on rural roads, like the famous Wild Atlantic Way and the Ring of Kerry. Trains serve the bigger cities, and Aer Lingus offers direct flights from Dublin to smaller, regional airports. Learn more

Explore trips by duration: 5 days · 6 days · 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days · 15 days

Ireland Tours & Itineraries

Get inspired by trips other travelers have loved
The Cliffs of Moher on Ireland's wild western coast
Map of Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway - 5 Days
Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway - 5 Days

Hit the road and see the best of the Emerald Isle on this 5-day self-driving jaunt through Ireland. Walk the ancient streets of Dublin, kiss the Blarney Stone in Cork, visit the famous heritage town of Killarney, take in breathtaking views of the Cliffs of Moher, and revel in the energy of bohemian Galway. From windswept Atlantic coastlines to bustling city streets, this itinerary is perfect for independent travelers looking to pack some of Ireland's most iconic sights into a short space of time.

A beach on the Ring of Kerry route
Map of Classic Ireland Adventure - 7 Days
Classic Ireland Adventure - 7 Days

This guided road trip is the perfect introduction to Ireland for newbies. Over a week, you'll visit both classic icons and some off-the-beaten-path sites—paired with beautiful landscapes and gentle walks to breathe in the fresh air of Ireland's spectacular Wild Atlantic Way. In the evenings, partake in the local pub experience with a pint of Guinness and traditional Irish music. The tour starts and ends in Dublin, where you can bike and kayak to some of the capital's best sites.

The medieval ruins of Ross Castle, Killarney National Park.
Map of Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Killarney, Dingle & Galway - 7 Days
Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Killarney, Dingle & Galway - 7 Days

Experience the best of Ireland's coastal scenery, historic sites, and vibrant cities on this week-long self-drive adventure. Starting in Dublin, this circular route takes you south to the Rock of Cashel and Ireland's second city of Cork, before heading into the wilds of Killarney National Park and along the spectacularly scenic Ring of Kerry. After a day spent exploring the Slea Peninsula and the seaside village of Dingle, you'll head up the west coast to hike along the Cliffs of Moher and spend a final night in Galway, enjoying the music, arts, and "craic" of the European cultural capital.

Take a drive through the Irish countryside
Map of South Ireland Scenic Road Trip - 8 Days
South Ireland Scenic Road Trip - 8 Days

A great choice for families or travelers who prefer a little independence, this itinerary will take you on a leisurely road trip through some of Ireland's most scenic cities and natural sites. Experience the allure of Ireland as you drive along the coast and over verdant hills between stop at the medieval Rock of Cashel, Killarney National Park, and the Cliffs of Moher.

Along the trail in Kerry
Map of Ring of Kerry Self-Guided Hike - 11 Days
Ring of Kerry Self-Guided Hike - 11 Days

Hike the Ring of Kerry at your own pace on this 11-day self-guided itinerary. The iconic Ring route is a loop of the Iveragh Peninsula on Europe's westerly edge. With the Atlantic and mountains ever-present, you'll follow the trail between some of Ireland's most charming towns and beauty spots, like Kenmare Bay, Caherdaniel, and Glencar. The start and end point of Killarney is easy to reach from a host of airports in Ireland.

Ring of Kerry
Map of Highlights of Ireland Road Trip - 10 Days
Highlights of Ireland Road Trip - 10 Days

Explore the magic of Ireland independently with this self-drive itinerary. You'll go from the ancient streets of Dublin to the rebel city of Cork, the quaint village of Killarney, and the breathtaking Ring of Kerry. Keep going to the spectacular views of the Cliffs of Moher and the buzzing cultural scene of Galway before you ultimately return to Dublin.

Make the Most of Your Time in Ireland

Have a fixed number of days? Maximize the things to see and do during your visit
A rainbow hovers above Ashford Castle, a luxury resort near Galway
How Many Days to Spend in Ireland

For a solid itinerary that covers Dublin or Belfast, plus outdoor activities in a few different counties, a 10-day trip is a great choice. With less time, you can still cover a...

Ireland Travel Advice

Read our detailed insights to make sure you have the best trip
Ultimate Guide to Multi-Day Walks in Ireland
Ultimate Guide to Multi-Day Walks in Ireland

One of the best ways to experience Ireland's remote corners is with a multi-day walk through the heather-covered hills, stretches of unspoiled coast, and sheer cliffs that the...

Girl taking surfing lessons in Co. Donegal
Family Travel in Ireland

Ireland is full of kid-friendly outdoor adventures, fun ways to interact with ancient history, and cultural activities from falconry to farming. Chase the leprechaun legend in...

A loving couple look out at sunset over the Cliffs of Moher
Planning Your Perfect Honeymoon in Ireland

Ireland makes the ideal choice for a holiday with your true love: beautiful, mystery-steeped, constantly surprising and delighting, and one of the most warmly welcoming places...

Our Latest Ireland Content

See natural wonders like the Giant's Causeway on this scenic multicountry tour
Map of Discover Scotland & Ireland: Castles & Cuisine - 15 Days
Discover Scotland & Ireland: Castles & Cuisine - 15 Days

Zip around Scotland and Ireland on this 15-day itinerary packed with the best castles and local fare. Your culture-rich road trip starts in Edinburgh with a visit to the iconic castle. After, drive into the Scottish Highlands, stopping at local distilleries in Pitlochry before reaching Glasgow for a musical march. Fly into Belfast, then lap the Emerald Isle. Tick off the Giant's Causeway, the Cliffs of Moher, the Rock of Cashel, and Kilkenny Castle. Finish in Dublin with a Guinness and Jameson tasting tour.

Begin and end your Irish adventure in Dublin
Map of Ireland Self-Drive Cultural Tour - 9 Days
Ireland Self-Drive Cultural Tour - 9 Days

Go off the beaten track on this self-drive history and cultural tour of Ireland that takes you to some of the country's most beautiful regions and noteworthy landmarks. From Dublin, you'll visit ancient burial mounds, travel the Wild Atlantic Way, hike through national parks, and tour historic castles. For a bit of fun, you'll enjoy nights out at local pubs and walking tours of vibrant cities like Galway and Dublin.

Sunset over the Claddagh in Galway
Map of Adventure in Southern Ireland: Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway - 11 Days
Adventure in Southern Ireland: Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway - 11 Days

On this 11-day journey through southern Ireland, you'll eat, drink, and travel like a local. In Dublin, you'll see highlight landmarks on walking tours plus imbibe at the famous Jameson Distillery and Guinness Storehouse. Then hit the road and enjoy the stunning scenery of counties Cork, Kerry, and Galway as you take boat trips, visit the Cliffs of Moher, embark on nature hikes, tour historic villages, and much more.

Ireland Travel Maps

Get the lay of land, and understand distances between the places you want to visit
Map Top Regions in Ireland
Top Regions in Ireland
View article
Map 5 Days in Ireland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
5 Days in Ireland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Map 6 Days in Ireland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
6 Days in Ireland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Ireland
Travel specialist Dean Garrison
active 9 hours ago

Dean Garrison

My role as a Sales executive is to help my clients achieve what they are looking for in a holiday to Ireland. Whether that would be offering places to stay, providing a detail Itinerary outlining...

read more...
Travel specialist Stephen Molloy
active 12 mins ago

Stephen Molloy

Urbanist by training, he spent most of his twenties traveling and living overseas. Bitten by the bug, he lived in Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, California, Australia, DRC, Kenya, Pakistan...and...

read more...
Travel specialist Jane Davey
active 1 min ago

Jane Davey

Born and raised in the UK, I’ve always had a love affair with the great outdoors. It’s no wonder I ended up in travel! Growing up, family holidays meant exploring the UK with my parents and...

read more...
Travel specialist Aleksandra Shebaltseva
active 1 hour ago

Aleksandra Shebaltseva

As a passionate traveler, my approach is anchored in the belief that every journey is an opportunity for exploration and growth. With a penchant for immersing myself in diverse cultures and seeking...

read more...

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Trip Reviews for Ireland

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Ireland -
Ireland | May 11 - May 17, 2025

Anneliese
Anneliese H.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on May 18, 2025
Our overall trip and experience was phenomenal. We saw quite a lot of the country in the seven days that we spent and had time to visited family. There were no glitches, no issues, eerything went smooth. We did have one question while on our trip and it was very easily clarified by chatting with Claire. She was fantastic and did an awesome job. Read more

Our overall trip and experience was phenomenal. We saw quite a lot of the country in the seven days that we spent and had time to visited family. There were no glitches, no issues, eerything went smooth. We did have one question while on our trip and it was very easily clarified by chatting with Claire. She was fantastic and did an awesome job.

Hotel Reviews
Carton House
Co. Kildare

Amazing staff and stunning property

Authenticity & Character
Every detail is looked at
Location
Beautiful property
Staff
More staff seeing to your needs than you know what to do with
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean old estate with charm and history around every corner
Salthill Hotel
galway

Great location

Authenticity & Character
Location
Right in the beach
Staff
Very friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Meadowlands Hotel
Tralee, Kerry
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Kind of cranky
Cleanliness & Comfort
Pax Guest House
Dingle

Fantastic location what you close your eyes and see when you think about Ireland

Authenticity & Character
Amazing staff and feels like a peaceful retreat
Location
Stunning
Staff
John was very attentive and spot on with every detail
Cleanliness & Comfort
Just wow
The River Lee Hotel
Cork

Hotel was great easy to navigate Cork.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Very friendly and accomplished
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean and out together
Activity Reviews
Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center tickets
Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center tickets
Ireland

This was great. We went at the end of the day right as they were about to be done so there weren’t as many people. I guess there can be quite a few. We were able to walk around after driving in the car for a long distance. It was great to stretch your legs. Many pictures cows right up against the barrier very charming.

Afternoon Tea in The Gallery at Adare Manor
Afternoon Tea in The Gallery at Adare Manor
Ireland

This was a treat. The estate is absolutely gorgeous the history was interesting. You felt like you were and an old Irish nobleman’s house having tea. The staff was very attentive and friendly the food unexpectedly delicious with such charm put into the desserts.

Blasket Wildlife Eco Tour
Blasket Wildlife Eco Tour
Dingle Town

This was an unexpected delight We had a great tour guide from the local area told us all the ins and outs were able to see some seals playing in the water the puffins and the sea birds diving for fish plus the scenery was amazing.

Visit Blarney castle and kiss the stone
Visit Blarney castle and kiss the stone
Ireland

This is a great experience. I think everyone should do it. The grounds are what makes this experience. The castle itself is like many other castles, but the history and the grounds with their gardens and pathways just stunning.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Welcome to Galway Walking Tour
Welcome to Galway Walking Tour
Galway

John was amazing and a delight m, full of all the side knowledge you want to hear and great wit included

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Traditional Irish Homemade Baking Scones and Bread (Kilcolgan)
Traditional Irish Homemade Baking Scones and Bread (Kilcolgan)
Ireland

Kate is a delight.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Claire Monfray
Claire
Claire Monfray
Local specialist in Lyon | Replied on May 19, 2025
Dear Anneliese, Thank you so much for your wonderful and detailed feedback. I’m thrilled to hear that your overall trip and experience were phenomenal, and that you had the chance to see many parts of the country while also visiting family. It’s great to know everything went smoothly and that there were no glitches—your satisfaction is our top priority! I’m also pleased I could assist with your question during the trip, and I appreciate your kind words about my support. The entire High... Read more

Dear Anneliese,

Thank you so much for your wonderful and detailed feedback. I’m thrilled to hear that your overall trip and experience were phenomenal, and that you had the chance to see many parts of the country while also visiting family. It’s great to know everything went smoothly and that there were no glitches—your satisfaction is our top priority!

I’m also pleased I could assist with your question during the trip, and I appreciate your kind words about my support. The entire High Point Holidays Team and I would be absolutely delighted to help you again should you decide to return to Europe. We’d love to be part of your next adventure!

Thanks once again for sharing your positive experience.

Warm regards,
Claire & High Point Holidays Team

The Ultimate Irish Experience with KimKim
Ireland | Apr 28 - May 7, 2025

Brennan
Brennan S.
Minneapolis, MN | Reviewed on May 12, 2025
Aleksandra was amazing! The amount of time and effort she put into making this itinerary and trip special for me was above and beyond what I expected. She was open to making adjustments to my trip itinerary based on my interests. She had good, timely communication and was kind and cooperative throughout this entire process. Her knowledge of Ireland was very impressive as I felt the itinerary she planned for me allowed me to do so much in only 10 days time. This trip was my first solo trip... Read more

Aleksandra was amazing! The amount of time and effort she put into making this itinerary and trip special for me was above and beyond what I expected. She was open to making adjustments to my trip itinerary based on my interests. She had good, timely communication and was kind and cooperative throughout this entire process. Her knowledge of Ireland was very impressive as I felt the itinerary she planned for me allowed me to do so much in only 10 days time. This trip was my first solo trip and first trip outside of the country and it has been the most memorable, amazing experience for me. Thank you so much, Aleksandra!

Hotel Reviews
Redclyffe Guesthouse
Cork

Staff was very friendly and welcoming. My host prepared a great Irish breakfast in the morning. Solid location just a 10-15 minute walk from the downtown Cork area.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Killarney Heights Hotel
Killarney

Great stay! Very nice hotel a couple of miles from the town center. Good breakfast in the morning although they seemed a little short staffed. Room was very nice and clean! They use a system where the room key goes in a slot to conserve energy, so make sure the switches are adjusted appropriately at night. Motion sensored so my TV and lights in the room came on during the middle of the night with movement in the hallway.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
O'Connors Guesthouse
Faha

I was only here for one night. Minimal interaction with staff but they were welcoming upon check in. Room was clean and meet my needs. It was fun having a bar connected to the guesthouse although life music lasted until midnight.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ash Grove House
galway

One of my favorite stays on my 10 day Ireland trip. The host was so kind and made a wonderful Irish breakfast. Rooms were clean and comfortable. An ideal location in Galway as it only took me 10 minutes to walk from the Latin Quarter and Cross street!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Waterloo Lodge
Dublin

Great location! The townhomes were very clean and comfy. The staff was very nice and helpful. They even made a bag breakfast for me for an early morning flight from Dublin back to the United States.

Authenticity & Character
They were very welcoming and even provided me with a bag breakfast for my early morning flight home!
Location
Only 15 minute cab ride from the main bars/restaurants in Dublin.
Staff
Yes! There was a woman who's name I do not remember. However, she packed me a bag breakfast for my early morning flight home!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Dunaree Bed and Breakfast
Bunratty

My host, Penny, was incredible. She was very welcoming upon my arrival. She was kind and made sure I had everything I needed during my stay. She also had great suggestions for local restaurants to try out. The BnB was cozy and just down the road from Bunratty castle!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Just down the road from Bunratty castle!
Staff
Very kind and helpful. Offered great suggestions for seeing Bunratty and Limerick!
Cleanliness & Comfort
My room was serviced each day and my host was very welcoming.
Activity Reviews
The Guinness Brewery Experience
The Guinness Brewery Experience
Dublin

I had a great time touring the Guinness Storehouse! The exhibits were fun and informational. It was self guided so I felt I could take my time moving from floor to floor. The taste testing and the free pint of Guinness on the 7th floor were definitely highlights!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Dublin Private Walking Tour
Dublin Private Walking Tour
Dublin

I really liked my tour guide, Mydie! She was very kind and welcoming upon my arrival to Ireland. She was willing to take pictures of me during the tour. She had great knowledge of Dublin city and was able to provide me with great recommendations for bars and restaurants to check out. I was a little bummed that we couldn't go inside Trinity college to see the Book of Kells. Mydie said the police in Ireland don't like when smaller tours or 1:1 tours go inside the Book of Kells. I wish they would let her more freely take small tours inside the college! Overall though, Mydie was awesome and I really enjoyed walking around Dublin with her for a few hours learning about the city.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Aleksandra Shebaltseva
Aleksandra
Aleksandra Shebaltseva
Local specialist in England | Replied on May 14, 2025

Hi Brennan,

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your incredibly kind words!
It truly means the world to me to know that your first solo and international trip was such a special experience. That’s exactly what travel should be—memorable, meaningful, and inspiring.

I hope this is just the beginning of many more amazing adventures for you. And whenever you’re ready for the next one, I’ll be here to help make it just as incredible.

All the best,
Aleksandra

Amazing trip planners!
Ireland | Apr 23 - May 5, 2025

James
James K.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on May 06, 2025
Alex and Kim – our time in Ireland was wonderful. That was largely due to the trip planning and you guys were awesome as you navigated through our wish list and put together something that no standard tour could provide. I know we were probably more challenging – me with my photography habit and Ruth’s knee issues. Although she greatly surprised me with her mobility during this trip.
I must say that the self-driving was quite the challenge. I was mostly terrified during the first 2 or...
Read more

Alex and Kim – our time in Ireland was wonderful. That was largely due to the trip planning and you guys were awesome as you navigated through our wish list and put together something that no standard tour could provide. I know we were probably more challenging – me with my photography habit and Ruth’s knee issues. Although she greatly surprised me with her mobility during this trip.
I must say that the self-driving was quite the challenge. I was mostly terrified during the first 2 or 3 days of the trip, but I gradually came to feel more confident. Part of it may be that North Ireland, where we spent the first part of the trip is more challenging with the lack of road signs and amazingly narrow and curvy roads. Once we got into Ireland, things were a lot easier – less curvy roads, a lot more road signs, and what not. The M and N designated roads were a joy to drive.
The details are already starting to blur a little, so many interactions with great Irish people who were kind and thoughtful to help us on our way. And just plain engaging and friendly enough to explain some of the more mystifying reasons for why some customs were the way they were.
And the hotels! All of them were so quaint and well cared for. We enjoyed all of them and for different reasons at each place. When we made the decision to self-drive, selecting the right hotels was one of the more challenging things for me and one I gladly turned over to you guys. And I must say, y’all hit it out of the park! We felt so pampered and the inclusive breakfasts were amazing at each location.
Ireland is beautiful. Personally, I struggled with the light – either too much sun or dreary clouds (mostly North Ireland), but that is how photography is. Finding the right light and conditions is largely dependent on luck when you are on a pre-planed trip and my luck was not with me when I needed it. But I did get some stuff that I think will come out nicely and when I find time to process my images from the trip, I will be sure to send y’all a link to them.
We saw a lot. And yet we now realize that we only scratched the surface. Much more to see. I don’t know what the future holds, but a return is not out of the question. Y’all will be number one on my short list.

Local specialist: Alex Rawson
Alex
Alex Rawson
Local specialist in Wales | Replied on May 08, 2025
Dear James, Thank you for your thoughtful feedback. We're delighted to hear that your time in Ireland was so rewarding and that our planning contributed meaningfully to your experience. It was a pleasure creating a tailored itinerary that reflected both your interests and practical considerations, and we’re glad it delivered beyond a standard tour. Navigating Northern Ireland’s roads is no small feat, so well done on mastering the self-drive adventure. We're especially pleased that the... Read more

Dear James,

Thank you for your thoughtful feedback. We're delighted to hear that your time in Ireland was so rewarding and that our planning contributed meaningfully to your experience. It was a pleasure creating a tailored itinerary that reflected both your interests and practical considerations, and we’re glad it delivered beyond a standard tour.

Navigating Northern Ireland’s roads is no small feat, so well done on mastering the self-drive adventure. We're especially pleased that the accommodations met your expectations and provided the comfort and care you were hoping for throughout the journey.

Ireland has a way of captivating its visitors, and it’s wonderful to hear you’re already considering a return. We’d be delighted to assist you again when the time comes.

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