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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
View article
Map 6 Days in Ireland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
6 Days in Ireland - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas
View article

Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Ireland
Travel specialist Dean Garrison
active 4 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 Jane Davey
active 11 hours 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 5 hours 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 3 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

We had a wonderful trip to Ireland.
Ireland | Oct 2 - Oct 11, 2025

PAUL
PAUL S.
Boston, MA | Reviewed on Oct 12, 2025
We had a wonderful trip to Ireland. We had two guides during our stay., For the first two days we had Vincent and then for the remainder of the trip we had Des. They both were very knowledgeable, friendly and caring. An unexpected highlight for us was the trip to the Barren smokehouse. We had a very interesting conversation with one of the owners. All of the accommodations were great, the food recommendations were spot on. Read more

We had a wonderful trip to Ireland. We had two guides during our stay., For the first two days we had Vincent and then for the remainder of the trip we had Des. They both were very knowledgeable, friendly and caring. An unexpected highlight for us was the trip to the Barren smokehouse. We had a very interesting conversation with one of the owners. All of the accommodations were great, the food recommendations were spot on.

Hotel Reviews
Cliff at Lyons
Co. Kildare

A wonderful way to end our vacation was to stay at the Cliff at Lyons. while we were only at the property for a short time, it is conveniently located close to Dublin airport. The property is beautiful and the staff was very friendly. They have a lovely bakery/Café on site with delicious treats.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Lodge at Ashford Castle
Cong

While not actually in the castle, the accommodation was terrific. I’m sure the handicap accessibility of the castle rooms didn’t fit my needs. Anyway, the accommodation was very nice the on site restaurants were great. well, the property is very large. They are more than willing to mow you around the property.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Monks Ballyvaughan
County Clare

Well, definitely a less refined accommodation than the others we experienced, the room was clean, comfortable, and had all the modern accessories. The on site restaurant had a great seafood chowder.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sheen Falls Lodge
Kenmare

Friendly and knowledgeable staff. Definitely worth going to the Falls restaurant, it was a highlight of our dining experiences in Ireland

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Davenport Hotel
Dublin

Wonderful hotel, friendly staff, close to the center of town.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
The Burren Smokehouse - Meet the Makers
The Burren Smokehouse - Meet the Makers
Ireland

This was probably the most unexpected experience we had in Ireland. We had no preconceived notion about what this experience would be like. Peter just comes up to you and starts having a conversation, taking us to various parts of the facility and ending with a lite lunch at the pub. While we probably wouldn’t have booked this experience on our own. We are surely appreciative that Eleanor pick this experience for us.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Eleanor Whitticombe

Ireland - Claire and the staff at Kimkim
Ireland | Sep 18 - Oct 1, 2025

Rose
Rose O.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Oct 08, 2025
Claire and the staff at Kimkim did a wonderful job planning our tour of Ireland. The accommodations were great and well located. The tours they booked for us were top notch, with well versed guides. For those that were self guided, the materials they provided gave us everything we needed. The restaurant they booked for an eight course meal was exquisite. I would highly recommend having them plan a holiday in Ireland! Read more

Claire and the staff at Kimkim did a wonderful job planning our tour of Ireland. The accommodations were great and well located. The tours they booked for us were top notch, with well versed guides. For those that were self guided, the materials they provided gave us everything we needed. The restaurant they booked for an eight course meal was exquisite. I would highly recommend having them plan a holiday in Ireland!

Hotel Reviews
Boyne Valley hotel
Drogheda

Lovely hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Clayton Hotel Sligo
Sligo

Beautiful historical building with lovely accommodations!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Connacht Hotel
Galway

Very nice hotel!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Brook Manor Lodge
Tralee

Beautiful B & B.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Crystal Springs B&B

Lovely B & B, very welcoming, with friendly staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Clayton Hotel Cork City
cork

We were very disappointed with this hotel. Hotel was beautiful, centrally located, with parking adjacent, and had a huge room with a view across the canal to City Hall. Our room was very warm and the air conditioning was not working. We called the front desk who sent up someone to look at it. Turns out they are in the process of replacing the air conditioning for this room and gave us a fan to use, which did not lower the temperature. We asked about moving to a different room, but they said they were fully booked.

Authenticity & Character
Location
One block from the main shopping, restaurant, and nightlife area.
Staff
No letting a room that has no air conditioning.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Air conditioning.
Waterford Marina Hotel
WATERFORD

Lovely hotel located just a few blocks from the Waterford Crystal factory.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Just a few blocks walk to the Waterford Factory, and close to restaurants and entertainment.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Motel One Dublin
Dublin

Beautiful hotel in the heart of Dublin, just across the Ha’penny Bridge from the Temple Bar district. Room was lovely, and the breakfast was very well done!

Authenticity & Character
Location
In the heart of Dublin.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Entire hotel was very clean. Bar had comfortable seating in abundance.
Activity Reviews
Guided Visit of Boyne Valley with Newgrange Chamber and Brú na Bóinne  Tour
Guided Visit of Boyne Valley with Newgrange Chamber and Brú na Bóinne Tour
Drogheda

An amazing experience!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Eala Bhán : Tasting Menu 8 course
Eala Bhán : Tasting Menu 8 course
Sligo

An amazing meal! The chef is a true artist!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center tickets
Cliffs of Moher Visitor Center tickets
Ireland
Quality of Experience
Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Doolin ( 50 min)
Cliffs of Moher Cruise from Doolin ( 50 min)
Doolin

A great experience!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Archaeological Tour of the Dingle Peninsula
Archaeological Tour of the Dingle Peninsula
Ireland

This was an amazing experience! Michael did a fantastic tour, and educated us on the archeology of the area, which is incredible. Hearing him speaking Irish with the sheep farmer was a highlight, as it brought back memories of hearing my grandfather speaking the language when I was a young girl.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Killarney Combination Tour - Boat + Jaunting Car
Killarney Combination Tour - Boat + Jaunting Car
Ireland

Wonderful day spent at Ross Castle! The jaunting car was fun!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Titanic trail in Cobh
Titanic trail in Cobh
Cobh

Wonderful walking tour covering the Titanic and some history of Cobh!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Afternoon tea at House of Waterford
Afternoon tea at House of Waterford
Waterford

Delicious!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Waterford Crystal Factory Tour Private Tour
Waterford Crystal Factory Tour Private Tour
Waterford

A tour not to be missed. Incredible that they are still cutting the crystal by hand. Such incredible craftsmen!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jameson Distillery Dublin - Bow St. Experience
Jameson Distillery Dublin - Bow St. Experience
Dublin

Wonderful tour, and great history.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Entry into the Emigration Museum EPIC
Entry into the Emigration Museum EPIC
Dublin

Great capture of history.

Quality of Experience
Visit of Kilmainham Gaol
Visit of Kilmainham Gaol
Dublin

Incredible history.

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

Diane was an incredible guide, very knowledgeable, and very willing to share that knowledge with us.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Diane was amazing!
Trinity College Library : The Book of Kells Experience
Trinity College Library : The Book of Kells Experience
Dublin

Incredible experience, even with the library undergoing renovations.

Quality of Experience
Local specialist: Claire Monfray
Claire
Claire Monfray
Local specialist in Lyon | Replied on Oct 09, 2025
Hi Rose, Thank you so much for your wonderful 5-star review! I truly appreciate your kind words about the accommodations ( and thorough feedback on the Hotel Clayton in Cork), tours, guides, and the restaurant. I especially want to highlight your experience with Michael. It genuinely touches me. It’s so rewarding to hear that his tour and the spontaneous moments he shared, like speaking Irish with the sheep farmer, created such a meaningful memory for you. Those authentic local... Read more

Hi Rose,

Thank you so much for your wonderful 5-star review! I truly appreciate your kind words about the accommodations ( and thorough feedback on the Hotel Clayton in Cork), tours, guides, and the restaurant.

I especially want to highlight your experience with Michael. It genuinely touches me. It’s so rewarding to hear that his tour and the spontaneous moments he shared, like speaking Irish with the sheep farmer, created such a meaningful memory for you. Those authentic local interactions are truly special, and I’m delighted they resonated with you.

It was a pleasure helping plan your journey, and I hope your memories of Ireland continue to bring you joy. Looking forward to assisting with your future travels in Ireland, UK, France or Italy!

Warm regards,
Claire & High Point Holidays Team

Ireland trip
Ireland | Sep 22 - Oct 3, 2025

P
Phil d.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Oct 04, 2025
1. Andrew who picked us up at airport was great.
2. Driver who took us to Giants Causeway & Belfast was excellent.
3. Dublin walking tour guide was great.
4. All accommodations EXCEPT Amlaugh House in Dingle were very good. Doolin Inn was especially nice.
5. Amlaugh House issues: a) beds were old lumpy mattresses and uncomfortable. b) TV got no reception. c) the door to the outside terrace in our ground floor room didn’t lock which is a serious security issue.
6.Claire really enjoyed...
Read more

1. Andrew who picked us up at airport was great.
2. Driver who took us to Giants Causeway & Belfast was excellent.
3. Dublin walking tour guide was great.
4. All accommodations EXCEPT Amlaugh House in Dingle were very good. Doolin Inn was especially nice.
5. Amlaugh House issues: a) beds were old lumpy mattresses and uncomfortable. b) TV got no reception. c) the door to the outside terrace in our ground floor room didn’t lock which is a serious security issue.
6.Claire really enjoyed the Celtic Nights show.

Hotel Reviews
Leonardo Hotel Galway
Galway
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bridge Street Townhouse

Lucy was very helpful.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Emlagh House
Dingle
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
NYX Hotel Dublin Christchurch
Dublin

Rooms small but OK. Breakfast was excellent. Restaurant was good.

Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Doolin Inn
Doolin, Co. Clare

Room was excellent Breakfast was excellent.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Connemara National Park & Kylemore Abbey Day Tour
Connemara National Park & Kylemore Abbey Day Tour
Galway
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Giants Causeway
Giants Causeway
Ireland

Driver was very knowledgeable and accommodating.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Dublin Private Walking Tour
Dublin Private Walking Tour
Dublin
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Aleksandra Shebaltseva
Aleksandra
Aleksandra Shebaltseva
Local specialist in England | Replied on Oct 07, 2025
Dear Claire and Phil, Thank you so much for sharing your detailed feedback! I’m delighted to hear that you both had a great time at the Celtic Nights show and enjoyed your guided tours — I’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to your guides. I’m very sorry to hear about your experience at Amlaugh House in Dingle. Your comments regarding the mattresses, TV reception, and terrace door security are very concerning and have been shared with our accommodation partners for immediate review... Read more

Dear Claire and Phil,

Thank you so much for sharing your detailed feedback! I’m delighted to hear that you both had a great time at the Celtic Nights show and enjoyed your guided tours — I’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to your guides.

I’m very sorry to hear about your experience at Amlaugh House in Dingle. Your comments regarding the mattresses, TV reception, and terrace door security are very concerning and have been shared with our accommodation partners for immediate review and improvement.

I truly appreciate your thoughtful feedback, as it helps us ensure every part of the trip meets our high standards. Thank you again for traveling with us — I hope to welcome you back for another memorable adventure soon!

Warm regards,
Aleksandra

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
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Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

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Local support during your trip

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.