If you are reading this blog post, that means you are flirting with the idea of taking a week off and exploring Ireland. We think it's an excellent plan and we're excited to share our ideas of what you can do in Ireland if you have only one week. Take a look at Ireland one week itinerary that we put together for you.
Week in Ireland
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1) Arrival Day in Dublin
There's a 95% chance that you will have to arrive in Dublin, so let's make the most of it before heading out to explore other parts of fantastic Ireland. If you feel well and energized after your flight, we suggest spending your evening experiencing the lively cultural scene and enjoying a pub crawl with the locals. |
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2) Exploring Dublin
When it comes to a vacation in Dublin, it's impossible to miss out on one of the city's greatest attractions. Yes, you know what we're talking about - the Guinness Storehouse. Make sure to include it in your to-do's, so you could not only enjoy learning about the pride of Dubliners but also take in the incredible city panoramic views from the top of the storehouse. You shouldn't exclude another few sights from today's agenda: Dublin's Castle, Christchurch Cathedral, and the famous Ha'penny Bridge. They will surely make your trip one to remember. |
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However, if you still have an hour to kill after that, it won't go wasted if you spend it in the Trinity College Library. Look for a Book of Kells while you're there!
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3) Traveling to Cork
Good morning! It's time to pack your bags, grab some Irish breakfast, and head out to the train station. Here you could board a train and make your way to another charming city in Ireland - Cork. After a 2,5-hour picturesque ride on Ireland trains, you arrive in a city that is 800 hundred years old. Of course, there will be some astonishing architectural marvels for you to discover. Starting the list is Blarney Castle and Gardens, a medieval castle guarding the Muskerry dynasty's honor. To recharge in nature, you can also pay a visit to Fota Wildlife Park and witness some exotic animals (like red pandas and giraffes) as well as lush greenery. |
By the way, if churches are your thing, you won't go wrong by adding St Anne's Church and Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral to your list of things to do in Cork. A couple of last things, we also recommend visiting the 18th-century English Market and Blackrock Castle Observatory for a well-rounded exploration of Cork.
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4) Traveling to Killarney
We hope you're well-rested, as another day of your week in Ireland is here. This one is dedicated to Killarney's breathtaking sights, which is only a 1.5-hour train ride away from Cork, so make your way to the train station. Once you arrive and settle in, it's time to explore the local attractions. Put on your favorite shoes and go for a stroll, visiting Muckross House (charming 19th-century mansion, the iconic Ross Castle, and impressive St. Mary's Catholic Cathedral. We recommend dedicating some time to the beautiful nature surrounding the city. Don't forget to explore Killarney National Park and Torc Waterfall. |
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5) Traveling to Galway
Rise and shine, dear traveler! A longer journey awaits you today as you will need to make your way from Killarney to Galway. It's a very scenic part of Ireland, so we recommend renting a car or joining a Cliffs of Moher tour to make unforgettable stops along the way. You also have bus and train options for making to Galway, but the trip would be around 5 hours, and the views might disappoint. |
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6) Exploring Galway
Top of the morning to you! It's your last full day of exploring Ireland, so make it count. When in Galway, there is a set of local points of interest you shouldn't miss. Take a pen and note down - Eyre Square with Brown's Doorway, John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaque, and the Quincentennial Fountain. Next on your list - Old Town of Galway, where you get to see the world-famous Lynch's Castle, St Nicolas' Church, and the beautiful Spanish Arch. Spend your evening enjoying your last pint of Guinness or a glass of whiskey, and don't forget to do a little souvenir shopping. |
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7) Departure Day from Dublin Good morning! After breakfast and packing, make sure to head to the train station in time to catch your 2.5-hour ride to Dublin and a bus to the airport. Have a safe journey home! |
We hope you found this sample itinerary for your week in Ireland useful and inspiring to explore the stunning island yourself sometime soon. You can change some cities around, but we always like to advise to either rent a car or take a train between cities, check our Ireland trains for departure times and fares. Have fun traveling in Ireland!