10-Day Ireland Itinerary: Daily Travel Route Overview

If you're dreaming of an adventure filled with rolling green hills, ancient castles, and vibrant cities, then Ireland is calling your name. This enchanting island is not just a destination; it’s an experience like no other. With this meticulously crafted 10-day itinerary, you'll discover the heart and soul of Ireland, starting and ending in the lively capital of Dublin while also exploring the captivating landscapes of Northern Ireland.

Known as the Emerald Isle, Ireland boasts stunning scenery, rich history, and a culture that resonates with warmth and friendliness. Whether you long to sip a pint of Guinness in a cozy pub while listening to traditional music or roam through scenic castles surrounded by breathtaking views, this itinerary will guide you through an unforgettable journey. We've designed this route to help you make the most of your ten days, while also providing alternative itineraries for those with one or two weeks to spare. Plus, we’ve included a handy Google Maps itinerary at the end to make your travels even easier!

Explore Dublin: Days 1 and 2

Dublin is a city that encapsulates the essence of Ireland. From the literary echoes of James Joyce to the lively atmosphere of its pubs, Dublin is a vibrant blend of history and modernity. As you stroll through the streets, you'll find that each corner tells a story.

While Dublin may not be the most picturesque city, it is far from dull. There is a plethora of activities to keep you entertained, including:

• Visiting the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum to learn about the impact of Irish emigrants around the world.
• Exploring the Guinness Storehouse, where you can enjoy a pint with a panoramic view of the city.
• Admiring the stunning architecture of St. Patrick's Cathedral, Ireland's largest cathedral.
• Wandering through the historic streets of Temple Bar, a cultural quarter known for its lively atmosphere.

⭐ For more tips on enjoying your time in Dublin, check out our guide to visiting Dublin.

Cork and Cobh: Day 3

On your third day, you’ll head to Cork, Ireland's second-largest city, known for its unique charm and vibrant energy. Although we only spent a few hours here, we found it to be a compact version of Dublin, with its own distinct personality.

Be sure to visit:

• The English Market, a bustling hub of local produce and delicacies.
• The iconic Cork City Gaol, a historical prison with a fascinating past.
• The stunning Blarney Castle, home to the famous Blarney Stone, believed to bestow the gift of eloquence to those who kiss it.

⭐ For more insights into Cork, check out our guide on Cork.

Discovering Cobh and Killarney National Park: Day 4

Wake up early for a day packed with adventure! Start in Cobh, one of the most picturesque towns, characterized by its colorful houses cascading down hillsides and a bustling harbor.

Cobh is steeped in history, especially related to the Titanic, as it was the last port of call for the ill-fated ship. You can delve deeper into this history at the Titanic Experience and the Cobh Heritage Centre.

After a delightful breakfast, head towards the Killarney National Park, a tranquil paradise filled with stunning views, historical sites like Ross Castle, and breathtaking landscapes.

For a longer trip, consider adding a day to explore the Ring of Kerry, a beautiful scenic route that showcases Ireland's natural beauty.

Adventuring in the Dingle Peninsula: Day 5

The Dingle Peninsula turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. Its stunning landscapes of green pastures, dramatic cliffs, and wild beaches are breathtaking, making it a must-visit.

While here, explore:

• The lively Dingle Harbour and its charming port.
• The historic Gallarus Oratory, a stone church dating back to the 6th century.
• The scenic Slea Head Drive, offering breathtaking coastal views.

⭐ Discover more about Dingle in our guide to the Dingle Peninsula.

Exploring Galway and Surroundings: Days 6, 7, and 8

Having a base in Galway is a fantastic idea, as this lively city is rich in culture and charm. With its youthful energy and vibrant nightlife, Galway is one of the most beautiful cities in Ireland.

However, the real gems lie in the surrounding areas, where you can explore:

• The famous Cliffs of Moher, a natural wonder that shouldn’t be missed.
• The breathtaking Aran Islands, famed for their rugged landscapes and rich heritage.
• The stunning region of Connemara, known for its dramatic scenery.

⭐ For additional details, check out our articles on Galway, Cliffs of Moher, and Connemara.

Unveiling Northern Ireland: Days 9 and 10

Just when we thought the adventure couldn't get any better, Northern Ireland stole our hearts. With its breathtaking cliffs, charming stone villages, and friendly locals, this part of the island offers a unique experience.

During our time here, we explored:

• The world-renowned Giant's Causeway, famous for its unique hexagonal basalt columns.
• The charming village of Ballintoy, which is a scenic gem.
• The breathtaking Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, offering stunning views of the coastline.

To top off our trip, we were lucky enough to witness the aurora borealis—a truly unforgettable experience!

The next day in Belfast, consider joining a free tour or a political tour to gain insight into the city’s complex history.

Map of Our 10-Day Itinerary in Ireland

To help you visualize the journey, we’ve created a map detailing our 10-day travel plan in Ireland. Each location is color-coded to outline the route we took:

Alternative Itineraries: 1 and 2 Weeks in Ireland

If you only have one week to explore Ireland, we suggest this condensed route:

• Days 1 and 2: Dublin
• Day 3: Cork and Cobh
• Days 4 and 5: Galway and Cliffs of Moher
• Days 6 and 7: Belfast and the Giant's Causeway

For those fortunate enough to have two weeks, here’s a more extensive itinerary:

• Days 1 and 2: Dublin
• Day 3: Cork
• Day 4: Cobh and the Ring of Kerry
• Day 5: Killarney
• Day 6: Dingle Peninsula
• Days 7, 8, 9, and 10: Galway and surroundings, including the Cliffs of Moher and Connemara.
• Days 11 and 12: Northern Ireland, including Donegal and Slieve League.
• Days 13 and 14: Continue exploring Northern Ireland with Londonderry, the Giant's Causeway, and Belfast.

Our Irish adventure is one we’ll always cherish, filled with beautiful moments and unforgettable experiences. This journey was made even more special as we shared it with family, turning it into a truly memorable trip.

What do you think of our itinerary through Ireland? Do you have any questions or want to share your experiences? We’d love to hear from you in the comments!

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