5 Days in Dublin What to Do
Planning your Ireland itinerary can be a bit daunting when there are so many beautiful places to visit in Ireland but have no fear dear reader, I've got you covered.
Get ready to truly see Ireland by experiencing the pub culture, watching the scenery during your road trip and visiting the bucket list destinations (perhaps staying in an Ireland castle hotel is a dream!) in this small, yet incredible country.
During your time in Ireland, the lush green landscape will steal your heart and the live music and pub food will warm your soul.
Ireland is a special place and many people end up returning to the Emerald Isle. I can't blame them!
This Ireland and Northern Ireland itinerary is packed with Ireland travel tips and is designed to help you create the ideal itinerary for Ireland specifically for you, whether it be a self-drive Ireland itinerary or a plan to help you get around by train or bus. I'm your virtual Ireland trip planner!
But first, this Ireland travel guide gives you all the details you'll need to know to before you go and exactly how to plan a trip to Ireland. Then we'll get into the places to visit in Ireland, the details on actually planning a trip to Ireland, what to see in Ireland and some of the best Ireland tours that you can take.
Let's get started!
Ireland Fast Facts
The first thing you need to know before visiting Ireland is that Ireland is two countries. What?Yeah, I didn't know this for the longest time! The island is in fact divided with the majority of the island being the Republic of Ireland which is an independent state while a small part of the island is Northern Ireland which is apart of the UK.
Currency:Republic of Ireland uses euros, Northern Ireland uses pounds
Languages: English, Irish
Population: Republic of Ireland is 4.7 million, Northern Ireland is 1.8 million
Religion:Christianity is the majority
Best Time to Visit Ireland
Picking the best time to travel to Ireland depends on the weather, what activities you want to do, festivals and more. Ireland has mild weather year-round though the best time for the warmest weather is the summer months of June through to August. Temperatures will range from 9°-19°C.
However, spring and fall are the best time of the year to visit Ireland as prices for airfare and accommodation are lower. Both seasons also have plenty of festivals across the country. The temperatures will still be cool so be prepared to bundle up in a few layers and bring a scarf.
Keep in mind that parts of Ireland will close down in the slower seasons so if there is somewhere you must-see then be sure to check that the area or attraction will be open and allow visitors.
Avoid winter, it is the coldest season and has the most rainfall but you could score a great deal on airfare.
Ireland Budget
Budgets are quoted in euros. Check up to date conversions here.
A rough idea of a low daily budget for Ireland is USD$50 (€40). This is if you are staying in hostels, not renting a car, cooking most of your meals, with some day tours and nights out. I spent a month in Ireland and it worked out to be about $66 (€54) a day and I never once cooked for myself!
If you plan on staying in hotels, eating out most or all meals and taking plenty of day trips plan budget €80+ per day minimum. Budget more if you are a solo traveller staying in hotels.
To get a better idea of what to budget for yourself, accommodation will cost €15-30 a night for hostels, the average hotel is €124 euros, fast food is as cheap as €4 but sit down meals cost typically €10-20.
Ireland bus tours range from €25-50, long-distance buses can cost €15-30, trains are around €20-50 (they're cheapest when booked in advance) and most of the cities are very walkable so I recommend walking mostly!
How to Get to Ireland
It's possible to get to Ireland by plane or ferry. Dublin is the cheapest city to fly into and there are often many flights deals to Dublin from Europe as well as North America.
I recommend to fly into Dublin and either start or finish your Ireland itinerary in Dublin.
You can catch a ferry to Ireland from a number of ports in England, Wales, Scotland, Isle of Man, France and the Netherlands. You can find ferry companies and more information on the official Ireland Tourism site.
Getting Around Ireland
Getting around Ireland is very easy and you always have choices. There are still parts of the country that are off the beaten track and can be more difficult to get to but all of the main sites and cities are easily accessible.
By Car
The best way to travel around Ireland is by car, without a doubt. You are free to do things at your own pace, avoid tours, see sites when there aren't crowded and get everywhere in the country.
It's important to note that many in the cars (including rentals) in Ireland are manual! Also keep in mind that the roads in Ireland are quite narrow, winding and you'll need to drive on the left-hand side of the road!
By Train
Train travel in Ireland is beautiful, fast and mostly affordable. If you book in advance you can get a steal on the price but book last minute and you'll notice a major price jump.
Trains are comfortable, clean and equipped with Wi-Fi. In the Republic of Ireland train travel is run byIarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) and in Northern Ireland trains are operated by Translink.
By Bus
The cheapest way to get around the country is by bus and they can easily be booked last minute for those of us who like to forget about planning.
The buses are clean and affordable but it is also the slowest form of transportation. Ireland is a small country though so it never takes more than a few hours to get anywhere. In the Republic of Ireland buses are operated byBus Éireann and Translink provides services in Northern Ireland.
Travel Insurance Ireland
- Picking travel insurance is an essential part of planning a trip for everyone, including your trip to Ireland
- If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel
- World Nomads is an affordable option that I personally recommend
- I've made 2 claims with World Nomads for doctors appointments and antibiotics in the Philippines and Australia
- No idea where to start? Check out my travel insurance guide to help you pick the best option for you
- Don't think you need travel insurance? Read these travel horror stories
Ireland Essentials
There are a few things that you will absolutely need while in Ireland.
Adapter: Obvi. But seriously people always forget. I like to use a universal adapter so if you don't have one already get one stat and never worry about it again!
Reusable Water Bottle: In a country where water is drinkable and bottled water is expensive then having a reusable water bottle is a no-brainer for the environment and for your wallet.
Rain/Wind Proof Jacket: This is essential for warmth in a country where you will probably see rain and wind every day! I love this rain jacket because it's longer (for extra warmth), it's good for hiking, casual but the length also makes it a little dressier.
READ MORE: Ireland Packing List (For All Seasons)
Where to Go in Ireland
These are the best places to visit in Ireland for your upcoming trip! To help you decide where to go a description for each destination is provided below and sample itineraries based on how much time you have in Ireland.
How Long to Spend in Ireland?
To be honest, as long as possible! There truly is a ton to see in Ireland. I would recommend a one week in Ireland itinerary minimum but I know people often visit for as little as 5 days.
2 weeks in Ireland is better and 3 weeks will allow you to see most of the country if you're moving at a decent pace (2-3 nights in each destination).
My Ireland vacation itinerary allowed me to spend a full month in Ireland and I was able to visit all of the places I've listed below when travelling at a relaxed pace.
Ireland Itinerary
How this itinerary works:I recommend where to go in Ireland and the least amount of time to the max amount of time to spend in each destination.
I share which Ireland travel destinations to pair together to help you decide and the best places to travel in Ireland for your allotted time. You can then mix and match which days appeal most to you to create the best Ireland itinerary between 5 days and 4 weeks.
These trip ideas are designed for road trips and even as a backpacking Ireland itinerary.
Ireland Itineraries
Choose an itinerary and start booking! The full itinerary will take you clockwise around all of Ireland. These are rough suggestions for a first trip to Ireland itinerary.
Do the research and look into how long it takes to get to each new destination as you might not want to move as fast. If you're renting a car then hitting all the destinations suggested will not be an issue.
Ireland Itinerary 5 Days
- Dublin
- Day trip to Giant's Causeway
- Day trip to Cliffs of Moher
Ireland Itinerary 7 Days
- Dublin
- Galway
- Day trip to Giant's Causeway or Belfast from Dublin
Ireland Itinerary 10 Days
- Dublin
- Galway
- Killarney
- Belfast
Ireland Itinerary 14 Days
- Dublin
- Kilkenny
- Cork
- Killarney
- Galway
- Belfast
Ireland Itinerary 3 Weeks
- Dublin
- Kilkenny
- Cork
- Killarney
- Galway
- Derry
- Belfast
Ireland Itinerary 4 Weeks
- All destinations plus 2 extra days to spend where you please
Recommended Ireland Trip Itinerary
Dublin: 2-5 Days
Dublin is the largest city in Ireland, the capital and the cheapest place to fly into so your Ireland trip will most certainly have a stop in this famous city!
Dublin has a ton of history and many major attractions with most of them being drinking activities such as the Guinness Storehouse, the Jameson Distillery, the Whiskey Museum and of course pub culture (the oldest pub in Ireland is in Dublin!).
But if drinking isn't your thing you can visit one of the many museums such as The Little Museum of Dublin and the Natural Museum of Ireland. 4 days in Dublin is a great amount of time if you want to explore the city at a leisurely pace.
DAY 1: The must-do activities in Dublin are a free walking tour to learn about the history of the city and see some of the top sites. Then a visit to the Guinness Storehouse or Jameson Distillery (though I recommend the Whiskey Museum!).
DAY 2: Make a stop at Trinity College where you can see the Book of Kells and the Long Hall which is a gorgeous library. If you didn't on day one you have to walk through the Temple Bar area and grab a pint!
DAY 3: Add in a trip to Kilmainham Gaol, an abandoned prison with lots of stories (be sure to book in advance), visit a museum to kill some time while it rains, spend some time walking through the city's gardens like Dublin's National Botanic Gardens, St. Stephen's Green or check out the Dublin Zoo. Lastly, you'll also have time for some churches.
DAY 4 & 5: Add in some time to relax, do a day tour or a tour around Dublin such as a food tour or even a beer tour!
READ MORE: Best Things to do in Dublin
Best Day Trips from Dublin
These day trips from Dublin are the most popular but not all are worth doing from Dublin if you're visiting a city closer to the location of the tour! Plan accordingly.
Wicklow National Park Half-Day Tour
Visit the Wicklow Mountains (where parts of P.S I Love You were filmed), Glendalough monastery, Guinness Lake and Sally Gap to understand why this part of the country is called the Garden of Ireland.
Blarney Castle
Did you really visit Ireland if you didn't kiss the Blarney Stone? This full-day trip will take you through County Cork, to Blarney Castle and the Rock of Cashel. This tour is recommended if you are not visiting Cork.
Giant's Causeway
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Giant's Causeway, walk across the small but famous Carrick-A-Rede Bridge, spend time in Belfast and drive past stunning coastal scenery. This is only recommended for those who are not including Belfast in their itinerary.
Cliffs of Moher, Burren and Galway
If you're short on time and opting to skip Galway you simply must include a day trip to the lovely city and the Cliffs of Moher as they are an iconic site in Ireland.
Where to Stay in Dublin
Budget: Jacobs Inn
A modern and funky hostel with an excellent location in Dublin. Jacobs Inn offers private dorms, rooms and single beds in dorms, all with ensuite, private bathrooms.
Mid-Range: Holiday Inn Express Dublin City Centre
Stay in Dublin's city-centre on one of the city's most popular streets, O'Connell, and be within walking distance to many of Dublin's top sights.
Luxury: The Fitzwilliam Hotel
Modern, chic and trendy, this luxurious 5-star hotel in the heart of Dublin has everything you need within the hotel for entertainment and relaxation plus the top things to see in Dublin practically on its doorstep.
READ MORE: Best Places to Stay in Dublin
Kilkenny: 1-2 Days
Kilkenny is a medieval town southeast from Dublin and is a great place to stop before getting to Cork. It can be a few hour stop to as much as 2 days if you're more interested in medieval history.
DAY 1: The main things to do in Kilkenny are Kilkenny Castle (including the gardens and park), Saint Mary's Cathedral which has breathtaking stained glass, St. Candice's Cathedral and Round Tower for the best views of the city and the Black Abbey.
Spend some time strolling along Medieval Mile and you'll find all of the main attractions, shopping and restaurants.
Be sure to check out Kyteler's Inn to hear the history of the building which includes witches and poisoned husbands. The food served is classic pub fare inside a pretty cool building!
DAY 2: And if you stay for a full 2-days stop by the Smithwick's Experience for a brewery tour, join a theatrical walking tour of the city or try your hand at hurling, a Gaelic sport that is also the fastest in the world!
READ MORE: Best Things to do in Kilkenny
Cork: 1-3 Days
Cork is the second-largest city in Ireland and is a university town. The city is worth a day or two stop before moving on to more scenic areas of Ireland. It is also a good base to catch some of Ireland's highlights from if you aren't road tripping.
DAY 1: Check out the city! Walk down St. Patrick's Street which is lined with shopping, stop by the English Market for some delicious food, marvel at St. Fin Barre's Cathedral and head over to the Cork City Gaol.
If you have more time other highlights worth seeing are the Shandon Bells at St. Anne's Church which you get to ring yourself, Fitzgerald Park or Blackrock Castle Observatory. Walking tours are also available.
DAY 2: Is a trip to Ireland complete without kissing the famous Blarney Stone? I don't think so. Pop on over to Blarney Castle where you can kiss the stone and roam the grounds through pretty gardens. Add in any sites that you didn't get to the first day for half of day two or join a Jamison whiskey tasting tour.
DAY 3: If you're driving be sure to make a stop before getting to Cork at the Rock of Cashel. If you're not driving then day tours are available which I highly recommend as the Rock of Cashel was personally one of my favourite things to see in Ireland.
READ MORE: Best Things to do in Cork
Where to Stay in Cork
Budget: Oscar's Hostel
A simple hostel 5-minutes walk from the bus station that offers small bunk rooms and private ensuite rooms.
Mid-Range: Jurys Inn Cork
A modern and spacious Cork hotel that overlooks River Lee that is within 5-10 minutes walking distance from Cork's top attractions.
Luxury: Imperial Hotel Cork City
Luxury at it's finest in the centre of Cork, this highly-rated hotel is home to a spa, on-site restaurant and finishes that will make you feel like royalty.
READ MORE: Best Places to Stay in Cork
Killarney: 3-5 Days
Killarney is a gem in Ireland and has so much to do! It became a tourist town thanks to a visit from Queen Victoria in 1861 which really put Killarney on the map as a must-visit destination in Ireland. It really is one of the best places to see in Ireland.
It was also here that I fell in love with Ireland and where you can see much of the beauty from stunning landscapes. Killarney is also a great spot to set up base and explore some of the most popular attractions of the area in Ireland if you're not driving and it gives you your first taste of the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland's jaw-dropping west coast.
DAY 1: Spend some time in town where you can roam through the cutest streets popping into little stores to find beautiful decorations, handmade things and more. If you fancy a classic Ireland souvenir stop by the Aran Sweater Market (there is also one in Dublin, on Inis Mor and in Galway) where you can get a sweater made out of Ireland's famous wool.
Then you can make your way to Ross Castle in Killarney National Park. Be sure to stop by Muckross House and Torc Waterfall.Note: This may be tight to do all in one day if without a car so get started early!
DAY 2: You're in for a treat this day with a trip to the Gap of Dunloe. You can choose to drive, walk or take a jaunting car (a carriage pulled by a horse). I recommend walking so you can take in the full experience of this stunning area, a passage between two mountains carved from glacial ice. Don't skip this!
DAY 3: This is a driving activity, which can also be done by tour where you'll get some of the most beautiful scenic views in Ireland. The Ring of Kerry is extremely popular and with good reason.
However, if the weather isn't cooperating then the views can be nonexistent. Be sure to make a stop where you can see how dogs are trained to herd sheep, it's quite interesting!
DAY 4: The Dingle Peninsula is another breathtaking drive with rolling mountains, including the tallest mountain in Ireland (Mount Brandon) and seaside cliffs (don't miss Slea Head!). On this drive or you can see Dingle town where you absolutely must try Murphy's Ice Cream as Dingle is where it's made (if you miss it there is also one in Killarney).
You can also stop at Dunmore Head, the most eastern point of continental Europe. The Dingle Distillery also has amazing whiskey, gin and vodka.
Another option for day 4 or 5 is to spend more time in Killarney, enjoying town and the national park, perhaps even hopping on a boat cruise.
DAY 5: Visit the Skellig Islands, which recently hit the spotlight as it is where one of the Star Wars movies was filmed (don't ask me which one, I don't follow Star Wars!). On a good day the islands can be seen from the Ring of Kerry. You need to take a boat to get to the island so tours are a must.
Once on the islands, you can see ancient history. The larger of the two islands is a UNESCO World Heritage site are where you'll find the beehive huts made by Christian monks to live in over a millennium ago.
The smaller of the two islands is home to the world's largest Northern Gannet colony as well as other seabirds (like puffins!) and it's also popular for seal, dolphin and whale spotting.
READ MORE: Best Things to do in Killarney
Best Day Trips from Killarney
Ring of Kerry
One of the most popular day trips in all of Ireland, the Ring of Kerry is a must-see road trip even if you didn't rent a car. Watch the scenic views of the Iveragh Peninsula through the window and stop in charming towns.
Gap of Dunloe
Explore the Killarney Lake District by boat and the scenic Gap of Dunloe by pony and trap on one of Ireland's oldest tours.
Skellig Islands
If you have a car then this day trip is an option as it's a 78km drive from Killarney but the sights of the Skellig Islands are other-worldly! Always check to see if the boat tours are running before driving over.
READ MORE: 10 Best Killarney Tours & Day Trips
Where to Stay in Killarney
Budget: Black Sheep Hostel
Small and mid-sized dorm rooms, along with private rooms are available at Black Sheep Hostel. It is an adults-only property and as a bonus has coffee machines available is every room!
Mid-Range: Scott's Hotel
Just across the street from the Killarney train and bus stations, this Killarney hotel includes free parking, spacious rooms and 3 bars on-site.
Luxury: The Killarney Park
Be treated like a celebrity at this family-owned hotel in the heart of Killarney. Rooms offer city or countryside views with an award-winning restaurant on-site, an indoor pool and spa.
READ MORE:Best Places to Stay in Killarney
Dingle: 1-2 Days
While I didn't include Dingle in any of the itineraries that doesn't mean that you can't add in a short stop in the extremely scenic part of Ireland! Dingle can be done as a day trip from Killarney, but if you're doing an Ireland road trip then I highly recommend adding in a day to drive around the Dingle Peninsula and explore Dingle Town!
DAY 1: Opt to base yourself in Killarney or the town of Dingle itself. Driving the Dingle Peninsula will take a whole day itself. So one your first day exploring the peninsula be sure to stop at Inch Beach, drive the Conor Pass, stop in Dingle if you're only doing one day for lunch and to try Murphy's Ice Cream! Continue onto the Slea Head Drive loop (easily the best driving part of your day and part of the Wild Atlantic Way) and make stops to view the Blasket Islands and Dunmore Head. Finish your day in Killarney or Dingle.
DAY 2: If you opt to stay a night in Dingle then you have another day to wander aimlessly through this charming town. Do your best to spot Fungi, the Dingle Dolphin, check out the Dingle Distillery, go on a pub crawl and enjoy some live Irish music!
READ MORE: Best Things to do in Dingle & Best Places to Stay in Dingle
Galway: 3-4 Days
Galway is Ireland's fourth-largest city and is in my opinion Ireland's best city for its charm, colourful streets and the things to do around the city. It is a harbour city on Ireland's west coast and is packed with trendy cafes, traditional pubs and the streets are filled with talented musicians.
Galway too is a good spot to set up base for some day trips or a shorter stop if you are driving.
I don't recommend anything less than 3 days here because of the trips you'll want to take from here. If you love nightlife and just exploring the town then tack on an extra day for some more relaxation.
DAY 1: Make your way around the city. Free tours are available that teach you about the city's history and take you to the main spots in town. Find your way through Eyre Square, past plenty of shopping and pubs to the Spanish Arc and the Galway Museum.
Other mentionable places to stop are Galway Cathedral and St. Nicholas' Church. If the weather is nice then a walk along the Salthill Promenade makes for the perfect afternoon. The Salthill beaches are popular for swimming because of their pristine cleanliness.
If you want a Claddagh ring, this is the place to get one as they're made in Galway! For the evening head to the Latin Quarter, the most popular area of the city for a night on the town.
DAY 2: We'll start with a tour or drive from Galway to one of the most popular Ireland tourist attractions, the Cliffs of Moher. You've most certainly seen pictures of these cliffs and they drop straight into the Atlantic Ocean and reach a peak height of 214 metres (702 feet). Get ready for some Insta-worthy shots from here!
DAY 3: Another day tour from Galway is Connemara National Park and Kylemore Abbey. It's a day filled with beautiful scenery as you drive or tour through the countryside stopping for picturesque views and photo opportunities.
On a tour you'll head out to Kylemore Abbey, dubbed the most romantic building in all of Ireland. You'll also visit some noteworthy sites and ruins full of history and stories. You may even spot some Connemara ponies!
DAY 4: Take a day trip to the smallest Aran Island, Inisheer or you can opt to stay the night (see more info below). From Galway you can purchase a bus and ferry combo ticket to the largest island. Inis Mor. Once on the island you can then rent a bike or a horse and carriage for the day to see the island.
READ MORE: The Best Things to do in Galway
Best Day Trips from Galway
Cliffs of Moher & Burren
An obvious must in Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher are truly a sight to see as the cliffs dive straight into the powerful water. This day trip is great for those without a car as it also explores the Burren where parts of Happy Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and The Princess Bride were filmed.
Connemara and Kylemore Abbey
Drive through and stop at picturesque sights that offer panoramic views of Ireland's unspoiled natural beauty and roam through the gardens around Kylemore Abbey.
Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher Crusie
Get to see the Cliffs of Moher from land and the water on a cruise that will also take you to visit the smallest of the three Aran Islands, Inisheer.
Where to Stay in Galway
Budget: The Nest Boutique Hostel
This stunning hostel that has amenities more like a hotel sits outside of Galway's city centre but right by Salthill and the beach.
Mid-Range: Park House Hotel
Eyre Square is just 200 metres away from this centrally located property. Find yourself in a warm and inviting room with wooden furnishings in this 4-star hotel.
Luxury: The Galmont Hotel & Spa
This eco-friendly hotel in Galway offers spacious rooms, a stellar location, an indoor swimming pool for adults and one for kids, an award-winning restaurant, spa and a business centre. Need I go on?
READ MORE: Best Places to Stay in Galway
Aran Islands: 1-2 Days
The Aran Islands are a group of three islands off of Ireland's west coast that are known for their ancient sites, prehistoric forts, medieval ruins and rugged landscape. The largest of the three islands is Inis Mor (Inishmore) which is inhabited and where locals still speak Irish. But don't worry English is understood across the island.
If you have the time I highly recommend you spend a night on the island so you can spend more time exploring. There is one hostel on the island and a few hotels and B&B's.
A ferry ticket from Galway also includes a bus transfer and can also includes a bike rental. Spend one day walking around seeing some of the medieval sites and forts and meeting the local animals (I met quite a few donkeys).
On your second day grab a bike and head out to the further sites such as the Worm Hole (pictured above) which is a naturally shaped rectangular pool and where one of the Red Bull challenges was held.
Just grab a map once on the island and you'll be able to find everything!
Where to Stay in Inis Mor
Budget: Kiloran Hostel
This hostel offers mixed dorm rooms and amenities that include a garden, lounge, shared kitchen and an on-site bar.
Mid-Range: Pier House Bed & Breakfast
You can't miss this cozy property as it's visible from the ferry for easy access to and from Inis Mor.
Sligo: 1 Day
Sligo is a coastal town that attracts those who love to surf. There is not a whole to do in the town so I recommend a quick stop here and keep moving on the same day or stay the night if you plan on surfing. The beach here is gorgeous and there are plenty of surf lessons available. Cute cafes line the beach and many pubs make up the town itself.
READ MORE: Best Things to do in Sligo
Where to Stay in Sligo
Budget: Strandhill Lodge, Hostel & Surf
A bright, light accommodation option just 100 metres from the beach. This accommodation option offers dorm-style rooms, private rooms, and camping.
Mid-Range: Riverside Hotel
This lovely Sligo hotel sits alongside the river in the heart of the city. Many of Sligo's top attractions are within 10-minutes walking distance.
Luxury: The Glasshouse
Stylish and chic, The Glasshouse offers modern amenities and luxurious decor. Situated along the river, guests can enjoy stellar views from their rooms, the award-winning restaurant and bar.
READ MORE: Best Places to Stay in Sligo
Londonderry (Derry): 1-2 Days
Derry is the first stop in Northern Ireland! I'll let you figure out why this city has two names once you get there. Londonderry is known for having a bit of a rough past and for the 17th-century city walls that are still intact today. I won't get into the details of the past as a local can do much better explaining the history of the events such as Bloody Sunday.
DAY 1: Take a tour of the city so you can see the best sites and learn the history, politics and more of the city. It's important here to learn about it all so you can understand more about the city and Ireland as a whole.
For the afternoon make your way around town, walking along the city walls if you didn't do it on the tour. Visit sites such as the Guildhall, the Siege Museum, St. Columbus' Cathedral or the Museum of Free Derry.
DAY 2: If you'd like to know more about Bloody Sunday and the division of the city take the time to go on a walking tour of the Bogside with a local. I recommend Bogside History Tours as a local who has an intimate perspective leads the tour.
You'll see the Derry murals and get a discount on the Museum of Free Derry. Take the afternoon for anything you didn't get to the first day.
Pro tip: If you're a whiskey lover be sure to pay a visit to the Bushmill's Distillery in Bushmills which is about halfway between Londonderry and Belfast. A trip to the distillery can be done as a tour from either city.
READ MORE: Best Things to do in Derry
Where to Stay in Londonderry
Budget: Holiday Inn Express
A fun, 3-star hotel in the centre of Londonderry that has all of your basics covered for a good night's sleep.
Mid-Range: Maldron Hotel Derry
Located within the city walls, this Londonderry hotel offers 4-star, luxurious accommodation with some rooms offering views of the 400-year-old city walls. Restaurants, shopping and the top city sights are all within walking distance with parking available.
Luxury: Bishop's Gate Hotel
A stylish, 5-star hotel within the historic city walls, Bishop's Gate Hotel will greet you with a grand entrance and amenities that include a champagne and cocktail bar, restaurant, fitness centre and valet parking.
READ MORE: Best Places to Stay in Derry
Belfast: 2-4 Days
Belfast is the capital of Northern Ireland and where the Titanic was built. This edgy city is absolutely incredible and like Londonderry has a troubled past.
It's here that you should spend even more time learning about The Troubles but also enjoy the unique atmosphere that this city has to offer. It is one-of-a-kind and I personally think it is one of the best places to visit in Ireland!
DAY 1: Get acquainted with the city by doing a free or paid walking tour where you can take in the city's sites, learn about The Troubles and understand some of the insane history behind the buildings (like the most bombed hotel in Europe, The Europa).
After the tour head over to the Titanic Museum. I won't sugar coat it, it is an expensive museum to get into but it's worth it if you're a Titanic fan. If not then you should at least walk over to see the building as it's quite interesting.
Be sure to check out St. George's Market, an indoor market filled with food stalls, handmade goods and live music. Spend the rest of the day walking around the city where you can visit other sites such as St. Anne's Cathedral. Be sure to stop by Kelly's Cellars which isn't far from the cathedral for a pint as it is a good mix of locals and visitors.
DAY 2: A trip to Northern Ireland isn't complete without visiting the well-known Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site made up of interlocking columns as a result of an ancient volcanic eruption. Take a day trip or a drive up the Antrim Coast where you'll be awed by the views and get so close to Scotland that you can see it from Ireland.
Day tours often also include a stop at the Carrick-a-Rede bridge, a rope bridge suspended 30 metres above the water and rocks below and connects to the tiny island of Carrickarede. Some tours will also include a stop at the dark hedges where a scene from Game of Thrones was filmed.
DAY 3: Back in the city it's time to explore more of Belfast's past. One of the best things to do in Belfast is a black cab tour where a local will take you around town explaining the rough history, showing you both sides of the wall and some of the most famous murals in the city and why there were painted.
You can also do a 3-hour walking tour for a more in-depth look. Belfast is known for its murals and street art so this tour is a treat to see the beauty of the art and learn the passionate meanings behind the work. For the afternoon head over to city hall where you can take a free tour.
It sounds odd to do but the Belfast city hall is stunning! You'll then have time to stop by the Ulster Museum, the Crumlin Road Gaol, roam around the city and shop some more or head to the pub.
DAY 4: If you're a big Game of Thrones fan then this day should not be skipped. Get yourself on a tour so you can visit some of the best sites where the HBO show was filmed. There are multiple tours, some of which take you to completely different filming locations, some have you dress up in costume and some even include a stop at the Giant's Causeway. It's best to look around and then decide which tour is best for you.
READ MORE: Best Things to do in Belfast
Best Day Trips from Belfast
Giants Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Easily the most popular day trip from Belfast, the Giants Causeway is a unique, natural attraction along the northern coast of Northern Ireland that will take you up the Antrim Coast (one of the best drives in the world) to the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Old Bushmills Distillery and to Dunluce Castle.
Game of Thrones Location & Giants Causeway
See the Giant's Causeway and the best filming spots for Game of Thrones in Northern Ireland including the Dark Hedges.
Game of Thrones Winterfell Tour
Specifically for those who love Game of Thrones, this tour will take you to sites not typically visited on other GOT tours.
Where to Stay in Belfast
Budget: Vagabonds
Friendly staff, a shared kitchen and common area plus dorm rooms and private rooms available.
Mid-Range: The Flint
A modern and sleek Belfast hotel that is within walking distance of the Cathedral Quarter, St. George's Market and other top Belfast attractions.
Luxury: The Fitzwilliam Hotel Belfast
Chic, elegant and a place you're not going to want to leave, The Fitzwilliam Hotel is located right next to the grand Opera House and provides guests with fine luxuries both in the rooms and around the property.
READ MORE: Best Places to Stay in Belfast
Planning a trip to Ireland can be an overwhelming task with so many options and so many Ireland destinations that are worth seeing. But with this Ireland travel guide, you should now have a good idea of where to visit in Ireland and the best things to do in each stunning and exciting spot.
Enjoy your holidays in Ireland and I hope this Ireland guide helped!
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