Ireland Travel Insights

Hike the Antrim Coast: Ballycastle to Belfast - 7 Days

On this tour, you'll traverse some of the island's most beautiful hikes around the Antrim Coast, complete with dramatic coastlines, rugged and windswept cliffs, spectacular scenery, and fabulous unspoiled beaches. Start with a walk through the dense Breen Oakwood Nature Reserve before heading to Ballycastle for a hike around Murlough and Fair Head, where you'll gaze down at breathtaking cliff drops and relax on beaches. Head out to the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Giant's Causeway, and then end your trip in the historically-rich city of Belfast.

Ireland Self-Driving Tour: Dublin, Killarney & Dingle - 5 Days

Explore the magic of Ireland on this week-long self-drive adventure. Start with a pint of Guinness in Dublin, dive into the Emerald Isle’s past at the Rock of Cashel, spend two nights in the famous heritage village of Killarney, and journey along the Wild Atlantic Way to tour the Dingle Peninsula.

Dingle Peninsula Walking Tour: Ventry Beach and Slieve Mish Mountains - 5 Days

This 5-day walking tour takes you through the scenic Dingle Peninsula—known as a “wild paradise”—filled with craggy mountains, sandy beaches, and historic pathways. Start your adventure in the colorful and lively village of Dingle Town before a day hike to sandy Ventry Beach, passing historical "beehive" huts along the way. Then walk across the peninsula over some of Ireland's most beautiful mountain scenery to Cloghane in the north and then back south to Annascaul, capturing panoramic vistas, deserted famine villages, and alpine lakes.

Hiking in Ireland: Dublin, Wicklow, Galway - 5 Days

Traveling from Dublin to Galway has never been so green. Visit the two bustling Irish cities, tapping your toes to traditional music sessions, exploring foodie scenes with your taste buds, and chasing historic tales through cobblestone streets. In between, hike the scenic paths in the Wicklow Mountains, including the famous Glendalough Trail that passes through a 1,500-year-old settlement.

Hiking the Dingle Way - 8 Days

Prepare to fall in love with the rugged beauty of west Ireland on this active, yet easily completed trip that will take you through charming towns and villages along the Atlantic coast. You'll hike 111 miles (179 km) along the Wild Atlantic Way, which is often hailed as one of the top 100 destinations in the world. Walk in the footsteps of Catholic pilgrims on the Kerry Camino, enjoy some of Ireland's best beaches, and discover some of Ireland's ancient artifacts like Ogham stones and ringforts.

Take a drive through the Irish countryside

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.

Hiking the Wicklow Way - 9 Days

This itinerary takes adventurous travelers through ancient forests and glacial valleys of Ireland's Wicklow Mountains. Starting in the picturesque village of Clonegal, you'll hike along Ireland's most popular hiking trail that winds through small towns and country villages where you can experience authentic Irish hospitality. End your hiking trip in Dublin, where you can wander around Marlay Park and enjoy the lively nightlife.

Exploring Dublin and the Northern Coastline - 10 Days

On this unique exploration of the northern coastline, you will learn the history of the troubles in Northern Ireland, visit castles and historical sites, spend the night on an island that boasts a bird sanctuary, and walk some of the most pristine, wild, coastlines and beaches found anywhere in the world. You'll also spend some time exploring Dublin with a private walking tour of the city and a visit to the Guinness Storehouse.

Ireland Self-Guided Cycling Tour: Wild Atlantic Way - 8 Days

Explore the most scenic roads of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way on this self-guided cycling tour. Meet friendly locals and take time to immerse yourself in Irish culture. On this excursion, you will discover breathtaking beaches, rugged cliff-lined coastlines, and majestic mountains. Spend your evenings in the homes of traditional Irish hosts, where you will learn the local, Irish way of life and be treated to warm hospitality!

Classic Ireland Adventure - 7 Days

This guided road trip is the perfect introduction to Ireland for newbies. Over the course of a week, you'll visit both classic icons as well as 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.

Ireland Self-Drive & Hiking Highlights - 9 Days

Take yourself through the scenery of Ireland on your own power with this self-driving and hiking itinerary. Your path will take you through buzzing cities rich with history, like Dublin and Cork, along with the natural wonders of the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands, with plenty of opportunities to get out to stretch your legs and see the country from the trails along the way.

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 heritage village of Killarney, and the Ring of Kerry. Keep going to the spectacular views of the Cliffs of Moher, buzzing cultural scene of Galway, and majestic views of the Aran Islands before you ultimately return to Dublin.

Admire stunning views every where you turn in Kerry County

Guided Kingdom of Kerry Walk - 5 Days

Featuring three full days of walking County Kerry's Iveragh Peninsula, you'll discover why locals lovingly refer to this Irish county as "The Kingdom." Starting in Sneem, you'll work your way west toward Abbey Island, around the coast, stopping to explore the Skellig Islands before ending in Cahersiveen. You'll cover all sorts of terrain from beaches and dunes, to narrow paths and unmarked open hillsides, and enjoy jovial evenings in cozy pubs along the way.

Climb down to the Dunquin Pier to ferry to Blasket Island

Self-Guided Ring of Kerry Hike & Bike - 8 Days

Discover southwestern Ireland's most iconic scenery from ocean-carved cliffs to mist-shrouded bogs on this 8-day hiking and biking tour. Covering part of the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula, you'll alternate your days between cycling and hiking dramatic landscapes as well as spend a full day exploring the charming port-town of Dingle and its surroundings.

Visit the Cliffs of Moher from Doolin in County Clare

Self-Drive Ireland: Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher - 7 Days

Explore the magic of Ireland on this week-long self-drive adventure, starting with a pint of Guinness in Dublin. You'll dive into the Emerald Isle's kingly past with a visit to the Rock of Cashel, spend two nights in the famous heritage village of Killarney, and drive along the Wild Atlantic Way to explore the Dingle Peninsula. Cap off your trip with a trek to the majestic Cliffs of Moher before returning to the capital.

Discover Ireland - 8 Days

Ireland has a reputation for conviviality, hospitality, and natural beauty. You need only visit charming seaside villages like Kinsale, the emerald green countryside of Cork County, and the lively pubs of Dublin to get a sense of this. On a custom tour, you'll experience these highlights plus many more in just eight days.

Ireland's highest sea cliffs, located in southwest Donegal

Ireland's Wild Atlantic Adventure - 12 Days

The emerald landscapes and rugged cliffs of Ireland have always held a magical allure. Traveling off-the-beaten-path, this guided tour covers some of Ireland’s quietest and least-visited sites in the west and northwest. Over 12 days, you'll hike, boat, kayak, learn history, see live music, and hop over to a tiny Gaelic-speaking island—and it all starts in Dublin, one of western Europe's most charming cities.

Ring of Kerry Guide Assisted Hike - 8 Days

This 8-day assisted hike combines the best of the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula, a land that's famous for its beauty, culture, and friendly locals. Hike through a series of spectacular mountains, deep-sea inlets, between ancient archaeological sites and through green sheep pastures. Hike through these wild stretches of uninhabitable coastline, enjoy spectacular views, and stay at night in comfortable village accommodations.

Dingle Peninsula Assisted Hike - 8 Days

Explore one of the most spectacular regions on Ireland’s West Coast on this 8-day Dingle Peninsula assisted hike. Hike along this mountainous finger of land, which extends miles into the Wild Atlantic Ocean and is frequently pummeled by storms. Begin in Tralee and follow the southern shores to Dingle Bay, then return along the stunning north coast, with views of the Brandon mountain range and rocky Atlantic cliffs as you hike.

Beara Peninsula Guided Hike - 8 Days

Explore the southwestern corner of Ireland on this 8-day guided hike of the Beara Peninsula, one of Ireland's "toes". Few roads cross this massive landscape, and those which do wind in hairpin turns through the rocky mountains. Follow trails between historic and natural landmarks, notably Bere Island, Dursey Sound, and Gleninchaquin Valley. Learn about local lore, from the prehistoric stone circles to the ancient tales of the Hag of Beara and Four Children of Lír.

Panoramic view of Killarney National Park

Self-Guided Ring of Kerry Bike - 8 Days

Cycle the historic Ring of Kerry on this 8-day biking tour, staying at night in cozy B&Bs. Trace the coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula, explore Killarney National Park, and visit the historic villages of Sneem and Kenmare. See 6th-century ruins on Skellig and Valentia Islands, and enjoy sweeping views of the wild Atlantic Ocean. You'll cycle along quiet country roads, take in the serene countryside, and hear local stories and legends in the neighborhood pub.

Hiking Ireland's Atlantic Way - 8 Days

Immerse yourself in the culture and nature of western Ireland on this 8-day hiking trip. Enjoy hearty Irish pub meals, spend your days hiking on the rocky cliffs and wind-swept moors, and spend the night in comfortable accommodations in town. See medieval and prehistoric ruins and hear stories of bygone eras as you explore Mayo County's highlights: iconic Croagh Patrick, beautiful Clew Bay, and the stunning views of Killary Fjord.

Guided Ring of Kerry Hike - 8 Days

Explore the beautiful landscape of the famous "Kerry Gold" butter on this 8-day hiking tour. See County Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula on a series of stunning day hikes, returning to town in the evening for a hot meal and a hearty pint at the neighborhood pub. Discover medieval monastery ruins, nesting bird colonies, and mountainous peninsulas carved deep with steep inlets.

Best Time to Visit Ireland

Ireland has mild temperatures and plenty of rain, no matter when you choose to visit. Summer is warmest, with long days perfect for road trips and village-to-village walks. Spring wildflowers burst through cracks in glacial limestone, and fall bedecks the national parks in dazzling foliage. Chilly, quiet winters offer fewer options, though travelers will love the cheerful holiday festivities in Dublin. Read on and choose the season that's right for you.

Hiking Ireland's highest mountain, Carauntoohil

Best Active Experiences in Ireland

Ireland is a wild corner of Europe, with many ways to explore. Long-distance trails make the country perfect for village-to-village walks, with terrain for every fitness level. The quiet roads are great for cycling, and a rugged Atlantic coastline lends itself particularly well to kayaking. Ireland's magical scenery will appeal to adrenaline junkies everywhere—here are some ideas for your active trip.

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 Carlingford, hang out with Ireland's favorite dolphin off the Dingle coast, or learn to surf on beginner-friendly beaches. The best part? Driving distances are short, with plenty of ways to keep little ones engaged along the way.

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 Emerald Isle is famous for. Many routes are suitable for novices, and walkers spend their evenings getting a dose of culture (and a good night's sleep) in countryside towns and villages. Learn about the ten best multi-day walks in Ireland with this comprehensive guide.

Best Local & Cultural Experiences in Ireland

Besides the stunning green hills, seaside cliffs, and wild Atlantic coast, Ireland is most known for its culture. Music, literature, history—all of these conspired to create a truly unique and attractive legacy. For travelers who'd like to get to the heart of this country, here are some of the most authentic cultural experiences in Ireland.

Ashford Castle in Co.Mayo is as glamorous a place to stay as you can find in Ireland

Beyond Hotels: Unique Lodging Options in Ireland

Ireland's unique collection of places to stay aptly reflects the charming idiosyncrasies of the country. Stay the night in a lighthouse, reenact Medieval life in a ring fort, get cozy in a hobbit home, or rent out the "pub with no beer"—find the perfect spot for your trip to Ireland with this list.

Top Highlights of Ireland (and How to Do Them Differently)

From Dublin to the Giant's Causeway, what most newcomers know of Ireland—and what's actually possible here—are two different things. With a bit of curiosity, it's possible to enjoy the highlights of Ireland in a wholly unique way. Experience Ireland's best-loved cities and sights differently with these ideas, including a "black taxi" tour of Belfast and midnight kayaking on a bioluminescent lake.

Looking out to the Blasket Islands, Europe's most westerly point, from the end of the Dingle Peninsula

Ultimate Guide to the Dingle Way: Hiking Ireland's Remote Western Peninsula

The Dingle Way is a village-to-village hiking trail tracing more than 100 miles around the Dingle Peninsula, a wildly remote section of western Ireland. With enchanting coastal and mountain scenery, not to mention a glut of archaeological sites, the trail takes you along some of Ireland's best stretches of shoreline to the westernmost point in mainland Ireland.

Dublin City & Wicklow Way Walk - 6 Days

Combine Ireland's energetic capital city with a few days walking in Wicklow National Park on this 6-day itinerary, ideal for those who want to experience both the city and countryside. You'll start with two nights in the city taking in its historical tours, followed by four nights traversing the mountain passes and glacial valleys of the Wicklow Way through expansive views and cozy villages.

Ring of Kerry Self-Guided Hike - 11 Days

Hike around the Ring of Kerry at your own pace with this 11-day self-guided itinerary. You'll follow the trail between some of Ireland's most charming towns, crossing sites like Killarney National Park, Kenmare Bay, the Beara Peninsula, and Skelling Islands across a variety of the terrain.

Top Regions in Ireland

Ireland is a study in diversity. From the gentle slopes of the Mourne Mountains to the looming Cliffs of Moher, from the patchwork fields to the pebble beaches, and from the kinetic energy of Dublin's streets to the reconciled northern metropolis of Belfast, no two regions are exactly alike. That makes Ireland a veritable treasure trove of culture, sights, and activities perfect for newcomers.

Ring of Kerry Self-Guided Hike - 8 Days

Explore the southwest corner of Ireland at your own pace on this 8-day walking itinerary of the Kerry Peninsula. This popular driving route is even better on foot as you cover the countryside from cliffs to beaches across rolling pastures, peat bogs, and mountain ranges. Start in Killarney, walking through Kenmare, Sneem, and Caherdaniel. Veer west through Waterville and Cahersiveen to your final village in Glenbeigh.

Kingdom of Kerry Guided Hike - 8 Days

Circle both the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula, 2 of Ireland's most popular regions, on this combination 8-day itinerary. Explore expansive grass hillsides crisscrossed by ancient trading paths, mountainous coasts, stone ruins, and quaint fishing villages as you hike the Skellig coast, Slea Head, and more, all accompanied by your expert guides.

Family Adventure in Ireland - 10 Days

Take a 10-day tour through some of the highlights of Ireland with travelers of all ages on this itinerary. Start in Dublin before heading down the coast to County Cork, where you'll bike through a medieval city and hear the haunted and natural history of Killarney. Experience a classical manor in Limerick, followed by the landscapes of the Burren, Cliffs of Moher, and Aran Islands before you return to Dublin for 1 more full day of urban exploring.

Family Adventure in Ireland - 7 Days

Take travelers of all ages around the Emerald Isle with this week-long itinerary. You'll spend 7 days experiencing the highlights of Ireland from the seaside town of Kinsale to the Killarney Lakes, then up to Limerick to live like a lord of the manor and over the Cliffs of Moher and Aran Islands off the coast of County Clare.

Dingle Peninsula and the Blasket Islands

Hiking & Island Hopping in Cork & Kerry - 7 Days

Explore the islands and peninsulas of Ireland's southwest side on this 7-day itinerary. Start out in the former smuggler's landing port at the village of Baltimore, then head out for hikes along the coastline, up the stone steps of the island of Skellig Michael, and out on the Blasket Islands. Meet the local puffins and basking sharks along with dairy products and musical pub traditions as you travel along the Cork and Kerry Way.

Burren, Aran Islands & Connemara Walk - 8 Days

Traverse the spectrum of the Irish landscape with this 8-day walking excursion. You'll go from the lunar rocks of the Burren to the coastal routes of Connemara and the Cliffs of Moher out to the remote wildlife of the Aran Islands. Whether you're taking in medieval fortresses, waving grasses, or cozy villages, you're sure to find your perfect site to stop and sit a while.

Self-Guided Dingle Peninsula Walk - 6 Days

Spend 6 days on Ireland's rugged West Coast with this hiking tour. You'll head down the Dingle Way from the country town of Tralee down to Inch Beach and onward to Dingle town, offering great pubs and traditional music in this Gaeltacht, a majority Irish-speaking area. The trail takes you through a landscape that's been inhabited for 6,000 years, full of history and archaeological monuments alongside the crashing Atlantic Ocean.

Guided Kerry & Cork Walk - 8 Days

Walk the highlights on this trip around two spectacular regions of Ireland's southwest coast: County Kerry and County Cork. This 8-day itinerary will take you along the craggy cliffs and hidden coves formed by the wild Atlantic, to historic islands, and across lush, rolling hills. Enjoy the peaceful, pristine landscapes of this corner of the Emerald Isle.

Ring of Kerry Self-Guided Cycling Tour - 8 Days

Explore the Emerald Isle's beauty and historic villages by bicycle on this 8-day trip. Mórchuaird Chiarraí (Ring of Kerry) is a 111-mile circular route on Ireland's southwestern coast, encompassing Muckross, Killarney National Park, and picturesque Kenmare. Discover local treasures as you cycle in and around the eastern part of the Iveragh Peninsula.

Hiking Ireland's Wild Atlantic Coast - 9 Days

Ireland at its best is wild and windswept and absolutely made for hiking. On this 9-day trip, you can go horseback riding on pristine beaches and walk the length of the Cliffs of Moher. Spend the night in cozy pubs and village guesthouses, visit lively Galway, and experience the unsurpassed beauty of the Emerald Isle.