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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 1 hour 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 Jane Davey
active 45 mins 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 2 mins 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...
Travel specialist Stephen Molloy
active 7 hours 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...

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Trip Reviews for Ireland

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Tenderfoot Travelers
Ireland | Sep 9 - Sep 18, 2025

patti
patti m.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Sep 26, 2025
We were contacted by Stephen Malloy in April 1, 2025 and began planning our Ireland Vacation. From the beginning, Stephen made us feel like he cared about making this trip an adventure for us. We exchanged emails, had two videos chats, questioners, and even received feed back and help from his partner in crime: Elisa Gjepali, Two for One! We must have been important or a big pain.
We received our first itinerary on April 6 and it was almost perfect. We could tell Stephen had listened...
Read more

We were contacted by Stephen Malloy in April 1, 2025 and began planning our Ireland Vacation. From the beginning, Stephen made us feel like he cared about making this trip an adventure for us. We exchanged emails, had two videos chats, questioners, and even received feed back and help from his partner in crime: Elisa Gjepali, Two for One! We must have been important or a big pain.
We received our first itinerary on April 6 and it was almost perfect. We could tell Stephen had listened to us and was trying to make our dream vacation a reality. A few changes were made and we had booked our trip by April 26 and excited to be on our way.
From May through September, Stephen or Elisa answered many. many question we had and not just about our bookings and outing. We had never traveled internationally and had no idea about anything. From travel insurance to customs procedures, they helped us feel comfortable and never acted like it was a bother.
We received our travel book a week before we left on our trip. Some scheduling changes had been made and they wanted to make us aware of the changes. Stephen even did another video chat with us because there was on very confusing day and he wanted to make sure we were all on the same page about the changes for that day.
Our first day in Ireland, we received an email from Stephen welcoming us to Ireland. A friendly face in a new town. He made sure we had numbers to call in case of problems, and let us know we could still contact him or Elisa if needed.
And we did need them a couple of times. Problems were handled and we had a wonderful time.
Thank you Kimkim for a wonderful time and to Stephen and Elisa,
You will be remembered in our hearts and prayer from this day forward.
Blessings,
Pat and Patti McHugh

Local specialist: Stephen Molloy

Jane and her team were fantastic - we had a w...
Ireland | Sep 16 - Sep 22, 2025

E
Ellen D.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Sep 26, 2025
Jane and her team were fantastic - we had a wonderful trip. Felt like we really had an opportunity to experience a lot of Ireland in a week! Read more

Jane and her team were fantastic - we had a wonderful trip. Felt like we really had an opportunity to experience a lot of Ireland in a week!

Hotel Reviews
Clontarf Castle Hotel
Dublin 3

This was a lovely last night in Dublin. I was actually coming down with something and the comfort and luxury of the castle was a relief and relaxing. We normally try to eat away from our hotels, but enjoyed the Knight's Bar. Very cool vibe.

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful - incredible job of creating a modern hotel inside an old castle
Location
Was close to the airport which we appreciated on our last night
Staff
Had a weird encounter on check out with staff member who told us he hadn't heard of Europe-wide hack on airports check-in software and he didn't believe anything in the media.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Foley's Townhouse Killarney
Killarney

Liked the location in the center of Killarney - breakfasts were fantastic!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Galmont Hotel & Spa
Galway

Liked the location near city center, but having to take two elevators and walk to our room was a little inconvenient. It was a little on the corporate side for my taste.

Authenticity & Character
Too corporate feeling
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Mont Hotel
Dublin 2

Great location in Dublin city center. Comfortable and top notch!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Killarney National Park Jaunt - From Park to Castle
Killarney National Park Jaunt - From Park to Castle
Ireland

Our driver was highly entertaining - we thought this might be a little too hokey touristy, but we learned a lot from the driver and enjoyed the entire experience. Beautiful day!

Quality of Experience
The driver was funny and informative
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise sailing from Galway
Aran Islands and Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise sailing from Galway
Ireland

It rained like crazy but we enjoyed biking on the island despite the weather. Beautiful experience

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Jane Davey
Jane
Jane Davey
Local specialist in United Kingdom | Replied on Sep 29, 2025

HI Ellen

Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback and experience of your recent trip to Ireland.

Looks like you had an amazing time and we loved working with you to create those special memories.

The team and I are thankful for your feedback as this will assist us with future planning.

We look forward to seeing you again in the future.

Thank you for choosing KimKim and High Point Holidays and we hope to see you travel with us again.

All the best, Jane & The Team

Thank you so much Svetlana for this amazing t...
Ireland | Sep 15 - Sep 22, 2025

Leslie
Leslie G.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Sep 24, 2025
Thank you so much Svetlana for this amazing trip. We enjoyed every bit of it, with the best time in Killarney. From Monika's thorough tour of Dublin, to the personal tastings at each distillery. Especially at the Pig's Lane, Louise Walsh was amazing in going thru some of their liquors in the most gorgeous speak easy style private bar. The quaint hotel Earls Court, was also so amazing, I didn't catch the hostess name when we arrived that evening but she was very helpful with any questions and... Read more

Thank you so much Svetlana for this amazing trip. We enjoyed every bit of it, with the best time in Killarney. From Monika's thorough tour of Dublin, to the personal tastings at each distillery. Especially at the Pig's Lane, Louise Walsh was amazing in going thru some of their liquors in the most gorgeous speak easy style private bar. The quaint hotel Earls Court, was also so amazing, I didn't catch the hostess name when we arrived that evening but she was very helpful with any questions and recommendations. Every morning at breakfast, Agnes and Anna greeted us with smiles and laughter, setting the tone for a fantastic day. We didn't get to explore much of Galway, it was just SO busy and the hotel was right in the center of it, being a newbie to driving it was intimidating. Speaking of that, driving in Ireland was the BEST way to get to see it. From the busy streets to the back roads we got to experience the very best travels. Small dinners such as The Purple Door Cafe in Leenane to Hazel Mountain Chocolate in Oughtmama Co Clare. And SO much in between. Just an amazing time! Thank you so much for the fun and the memories!!

Hotel Reviews
Lawlors Hotel
Naas

We stopped here for an overnight stay on our way to Dublin airport. ( only 45 minutes to the airport ) It was a great experience!! Hate we didn't get there in time to enjoy it. The rooms were spacious and the staff was very friendly. The lobby is a beautifully designed area.

Authenticity & Character
Spectacular
Location
Great location especially if you are heading to airport
Staff
Great staff, they even mailed some things for me.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean, very comfy and we even got an upgraded room! Thank you all!
Earls Court House Hotel
Killarney

This hotel is by far the best I've ever stayed at. The rooms are spotless, and the location is perfect—close enough to everything, yet not too close. The staff was incredible; I didn’t catch the hostess's name, but she was so helpful and accommodating. Every morning at breakfast, Agnes and Anna greeted us with smiles and laughter, setting the tone for a fantastic day.

Authenticity & Character
Love the ambience
Location
Perfect location
Staff
Everyone was very friendly and helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Could've lived here :) it was all great.
Maldron Hotel Sandy Road Galway
Galway

Great room, location is ok, would've loved a less traffic area. Food was great and service was good.

Authenticity & Character
Hotel is good, but we were spoiled at the Davenport. :)
Location
I would prefer a less busy location, but that is me.
Staff
Awesome staff, they were very nice and helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
A little on the dirty side but would stay again if need be.
Davenport Hotel
Dublin

The staff here are amazing in every way. Would love to go back, great food here also!

Authenticity & Character
The ambience to the staff, it is brilliantly done!
Location
Staff
They take care of any needs and go beyond .....
Cleanliness & Comfort
Great rooms and very comfy bed!
Activity Reviews
Killarney Brews & Views
Killarney Brews & Views
Killarney
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sheep Dog & Shearing
Sheep Dog & Shearing
Ireland
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kilbeggan Distillery
Kilbeggan Distillery
Kilbeggan
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Traditional Dance, Music & Dinner
Traditional Dance, Music & Dinner
Dublin

This show is great! I could watch them all night, great energy and skills. The food and drinks were great also.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Book of Kells & Old Library
Book of Kells & Old Library
Dublin

This place is amazing, the books that the college actually still gets to have access to is amazing. Loved this

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Tour of Dublin
Guided Tour of Dublin
Dublin

Monika was amazing and very informative on the area. She is so friendly and we enjoyed our exploration with her. She even walked us up to our next booking at the Book Of Kells.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Svetlana Frolova

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
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Authentic travel experiences

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You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.