Morning: Arrive in Dublin and settle into your accommodation. Start your day with a visit to Trinity College Library to see the historic Book of Kells, a masterpiece of medieval manuscript art.
Afternoon: Head over to Dublin Castle and explore its beautiful gardens and state apartments. Then wander through the vibrant Temple Bar District for some local culture and street performances.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Irish dinner in a pub around Grafton Street, then perhaps catch some live Irish music to complete your first night in Dublin.
Find HotelsMorning: Visit the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology to explore Ireland’s rich history. Enjoy a stroll through St. Stephen's Green park for some relaxation in the heart of the city.
Afternoon: Take a mid-afternoon train or drive to Kilkenny (about 1.5-2 hours). Once there, visit the magnificent Kilkenny Castle.
Evening: Explore Kilkenny’s medieval streets and dine in a cozy local restaurant, enjoying the town’s warm ambiance and traditional fare.
Find HotelsMorning: Begin with a visit to the Medieval Mile Museum to delve deeper into Kilkenny’s past. Grab a coffee at a local café before heading to Waterford.
Afternoon: Travel to Waterford (about 1 hour). Visit the famous House of Waterford Crystal and see how the renowned crystal is crafted. Wander around the quaint streets of Waterford city center.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, sampling fresh local seafood and soaking up the coastal views.
Find HotelsMorning: Before leaving Waterford, consider a visit to the Reginald’s Tower, Ireland’s oldest civic building. Then depart for Cork (approximately 2 hours by car or train).
Afternoon: Upon arrival in Cork, explore the bustling English Market, a food lover’s paradise. Take a walk to St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral to admire its stunning Gothic architecture.
Evening: Experience Cork’s lively pub scene, enjoying craft beers and live music in the city center.
Find HotelsMorning: Visit Blarney Castle just outside Cork to kiss the famous Blarney Stone and explore the beautiful gardens. Return to Cork city in the early afternoon.
Afternoon: Spend time at the Crawford Art Gallery appreciating Irish and European art collections. Then stroll along the River Lee for some scenic views.
Evening: Dine in a fine restaurant in Cork city, sampling modern Irish cuisine influenced by local ingredients.
Find HotelsMorning: Travel back to Dublin (about 3 hours by car or train). Use the morning to relax or do some last-minute shopping along O’Connell Street.
Afternoon: Visit Guinness Storehouse for a fascinating tour and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Gravity Bar.
Evening: Depending on your flight time, have a final Irish meal at a city restaurant or head to the airport for departure.
Find HotelsTotal estimated cost: Approximately €207 (excluding meals and accommodation)
For those wanting a shorter trip, consider focusing on Dublin and one nearby city such as Kilkenny or Cork to reduce travel time. Conversely, if you prefer to extend the adventure, add extra days to explore the scenic countryside, visit peninsulas like Dingle or bear Island trips, or immerse yourself further in local culture through festivals and day tours.