7 Day Ireland Itinerary from Dublin: An Unforgettable Trip Around Southern Ireland
Looking for more ways to plan your trip? Our Ireland Itinerary 7 Days hub provides a complete overview of how to structure an unforgettable week in Ireland. Whether you’re starting in Dublin or exploring multiple regions, it’s a great resource to help you make the most of your adventure!
Welcome to Ireland—the land of stunning landscapes, medieval castles, and unforgettable adventures. Planning the ultimate Irish road trip? This 7 day Ireland itinerary from Dublin will take you through some of the country’s most iconic destinations, hidden gems, and breathtaking natural wonders.
Starting and ending in Dublin, this itinerary is tailored for first-time visitors who want to experience Ireland’s highlights in just one week. From the lively streets of Galway to the dramatic cliffs of Moher, and the rugged beauty of the Ring of Kerry, you’ll discover the essence of Ireland at every stop.
Pack your bags, buckle up, and let’s dive into this unforgettable 7 day Ireland itinerary from Dublin—designed to help you make the most of every moment in the Emerald Isle.
Day 1: Explore Dublin
Starting your 7 day Ireland itinerary from Dublin, your adventure begins in Ireland’s vibrant capital, Dublin, a city brimming with history, culture, and cozy pubs.
Morning: Trinity College & The Book of Kells
Start your day at Trinity College, home to one of Ireland’s greatest treasures—the Book of Kells. This 9th-century manuscript, filled with intricate Celtic art, is a must-see. Afterward, stroll through the college’s Long Room library, with its floor-to-ceiling wooden shelves packed with centuries-old books.
- Driving Notes: No car is needed on Day 1—explore Dublin on foot or via public transport.
Insider Tip: Book your tickets for the Book of Kells online to skip the queues and avoid wasting precious time.
Afternoon: Dublin Castle & Temple Bar
Next, visit Dublin Castle, where Irish history comes alive. Explore its gardens and the Chester Beatty Library. Afterward, head to Temple Bar for lunch and a pint at one of its many colorful pubs. While it’s touristy, the atmosphere is electric, and you can try traditional dishes like Irish stew or boxty.
Evening: Guinness Storehouse or Jameson Distillery
Wrap up your day at the Guinness Storehouse. Learn about the brewing process, then enjoy a pint at the Gravity Bar with 360-degree views of Dublin. Whiskey fans can opt for a tour at the Jameson Distillery, just a short walk away.
Where to Stay: Stay centrally—look for hotels near St. Stephen’s Green or along O’Connell Street to maximize your time.
Day 2: Wicklow Mountains & Glendalough (Driving: 1 Hour)
Day 2 of our 7 day Ireland itinerary from Dublin is a beautiful loop starting and ending in Dublin. Trade the city bustle for the serene beauty of County Wicklow, often called the “Garden of Ireland.”
Morning: Wicklow Mountains National Park & Glendalough
Drive south to Glendalough, a breathtaking glacial valley surrounded by the Wicklow Mountains. Start at the visitor center, then explore the Monastic City with its ancient round tower and stone churches. Afterward, take a short hike to the Upper Lake for stunning views.
Afternoon: Powerscourt Estate
On your way back, visit Powerscourt Estate, famous for its gardens ranked among the best in the world. Stroll through its Italianate terraces, rose gardens, and Japanese-inspired spaces. Have lunch at the on-site café while enjoying views of Sugarloaf Mountain.
- Driving Time Back to Dublin: 1 Hour
Insider Tip: The Sally Gap drive, part of the Wicklow Mountains, offers dramatic scenery—think rolling hills and heather-covered landscapes.
Day 3: Kilkenny & Rock of Cashel (Driving: 2.5 Hours Total)
Continue your 7 day Ireland itinerary from Dublin as you step back in time as you explore medieval Ireland.
Morning: Kilkenny Castle & Medieval Mile
Drive 1.5 hours to Kilkenny, a charming city known for its medieval heritage. Tour Kilkenny Castle, which boasts stunning gardens and a rich history. Then, explore the Medieval Mile, which includes St. Canice’s Cathedral and the Rothe House. Kilkenny’s cobbled streets and vibrant atmosphere make it an absolute delight.
Afternoon: Rock of Cashel
Continue 1 hour to the Rock of Cashel, a dramatic limestone hill featuring ancient ruins. Explore the 12th-century round tower, the Gothic cathedral, and Cormac’s Chapel, with its stunning frescoes. And here we are, already halfway through your 7 day Ireland itinerary from Dublin.
Insider Tip: Try a pint of Kilkenny beer before heading to your next destination—locals swear by its smooth, creamy taste.
Day 4: Cork & Blarney Castle (Driving: 2.5 Hours)
It’s day 4 of the 7 day Ireland itinerary from Dublin and we’re going to the southern part of Ireland for a mix of history and culinary delights.
Morning: Blarney Castle
Your day begins at the iconic Blarney Castle, where you can kiss the famous Blarney Stone to gain the “gift of the gab.” Take time to wander through the estate’s gardens, including the mystical Poison Garden.
Afternoon: Explore Cork City
Drive 20 minutes to Cork, a bustling city with a lively food scene. Visit the English Market, where you can sample local cheeses, meats, and seafood. Climb the Shandon Bells at St. Anne’s Church for panoramic views of the city.
Evening: Kinsale (Optional)
If you have time, make a quick detour to Kinsale (40 minutes from Cork), a charming coastal town known for its colorful streets and gourmet restaurants.
Where to Stay: Stay overnight in Cork or Kinsale for a coastal vibe.
Day 5: Ring of Kerry (Driving: 4 Hours)
Today on the 7 day Ireland itinerary from Dublin, you’ll experience one of Ireland’s most scenic drives: the Ring of Kerry.
Highlights Along the Route
- Killarney National Park: Stop for a walk around Muckross House and its tranquil gardens.
- Ladies View: A panoramic viewpoint that lives up to its name.
- Torc Waterfall: A short hike leads to this picturesque cascade.
The full Ring of Kerry loop takes around 4 hours without stops, but plan for a full day to explore. This will probably be your highlight of the 7 day Ireland itinerary from Dublin route.
Insider Tip: Start early to avoid crowds and take advantage of quieter roads.
Day 6: Cliffs of Moher & Galway (Driving: 4 Hours)
Prepare for one of Ireland’s most dramatic landscapes on the penultimate day of the 7 day Ireland itinerary from Dublin.
Morning: Cliffs of Moher
Drive 3 hours to the Cliffs of Moher. Walk along the cliffs for jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Aran Islands. Be sure to stop by the visitor center to learn about the geology and wildlife of the area.
Afternoon: The Burren & Galway
On your way to Galway, pass through the Burren, a unique limestone landscape. Make a quick stop at Dunguaire Castle for some postcard-worthy photos before continuing to Galway.
Evening: Galway’s Latin Quarter
End your day in Galway, a lively city bursting with traditional music and vibrant pubs. Head to The Quays or Tig Coili for an authentic Irish music session.
Day 7: Back to Dublin via Athlone (Driving: 2.5 Hours)
Your 7 day Ireland itinerary from Dublin wraps up with a relaxed drive back to Dublin.
Morning: Athlone or Trim Castle
On your way back, stop in Athlone to visit Sean’s Bar, the oldest pub in Ireland. Alternatively, detour to Trim Castle, where Braveheart was filmed.
Afternoon & Evening: Farewell Dublin
Back in Dublin, as we complete the 7 day Ireland itinerary from Dublin, spend your final afternoon shopping on Grafton Street or unwinding with a stroll along the River Liffey. End your trip with a farewell dinner at The Brazen Head, Dublin’s oldest pub.
This 7 day Ireland itinerary from Dublin captures the heart and soul of the Emerald Isle, from its historic landmarks to its natural wonders. Whether you’re kissing the Blarney Stone, hiking the Cliffs of Moher, or enjoying traditional Irish music in Galway, every day is filled with unforgettable moments.
Don’t wait—start planning your dream trip today. Ireland is calling, and the adventure of a lifetime awaits!
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Imagine this: lush green landscapes, centuries-old castles, and the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet—all packed into seven magical days.
Whether you’re tight on time or want a taste of what Ireland has to offer, a 7 Day Ireland Itinerary from Dublin is the perfect way to experience the highlights.
With a little planning (and a bit of help from technology), you can weave through Ireland’s history, natural beauty, and lively culture in just a week.
This itinerary was created with the AI Ireland Travel Expert and it can be your personal travel assistant, helping you organize routes, manage timings, and make the most of your short stay.
It’s the perfect tool to maximize efficiency while still leaving room for spontaneity.
If you’re starting your Ireland research, this ‘7 Day Ireland Itinerary’ pairs perfectly with our other 7 Days in Ireland guides which are all in our Ireland Itinerary 7 Days Hub.
It’s your one-stop hub for exploring 7 day holiday options, so don’t forget to check it out after reading this guide!
Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a family, this plan ensures you’ll have a fantastic Irish adventure, leaving you both satisfied and craving more.
If you can make additional time for more or plan to return to ireland, check out the Ireland Itinerary Hub which has lots of itineraries to maximise your vacation time in Ireland.
FAQ
>> What are the main highlights of this 7-day Ireland itinerary?
Explore Dublin’s Trinity College and the Book of Kells, enjoy lunch at a traditional Irish pub, tour the Guinness Storehouse, and experience the vibrant Temple Bar district. Take a day trip to the Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough, have lunch in Kilkenny City, and walk the Medieval Mile before returning to Dublin. Travel to Galway to explore the Latin Quarter, stroll along the Salthill Promenade, and enjoy an evening of traditional Irish music.
>> How can I efficiently travel between Dublin, Wicklow, Kilkenny, and Galway within 7 days?
Dublin to Wicklow/Kilkenny: Renting a car is recommended for flexibility, allowing you to visit the Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough in the morning and reach Kilkenny by afternoon. Dublin to Galway: You can take a direct train or bus from Dublin to Galway, with journeys typically lasting around 2.5 hours.
>> Are there any specific tips for visiting the Guinness Storehouse and Trinity College?
Guinness Storehouse: It’s advisable to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues. Allocate about 2 hours for the self-guided tour, which concludes with a pint at the Gravity Bar, offering panoramic views of Dublin. Trinity College: Arriving early can help you beat the crowds, especially for viewing the Book of Kells. Guided tours are available and provide deeper insights into the college’s history.
>> How can I experience traditional Irish music in Galway?
Galway’s Latin Quarter is renowned for its lively pubs featuring traditional Irish music sessions. Venues like The Crane Bar and Tigh Neachtain are popular choices. Arriving early ensures good seating, as these spots can become crowded in the evenings.
>> Are there any additional 7 Day Ireland Itinerary from Dublin articles?
Yes! Visit the Ireland Itinerary 7 Days Hub page, where you’ll find additional itineraries, tips, and inspiration.
>> Are there any itineraries for more or less than 7 days?
Yes! Visit our multi-day itinerary hub.