Located on top of a hill in the historic heart of Edinburgh, the Edinburgh Castle is a fortress that dominates the city skyline. The castle was inhabited for centuries and various buildings inside are now open to visitors including the Scottish National War Memorial, the Honours of Scotland, and the Stone of Destiny which was used during the coronation of Scottish Kings.
Also known as the High Kirk of Edinburgh, St Giles' Cathedral is one of the most significant religious sites in Scotland. The building is a mix of different styles due to the additions and restorations in different phases of its history, ranging from Medieval to Victorian Gothic. Visitors can admire the stained glass windows and the Thistle Chapel which is decorated with the Order of the Thistle stained glass.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Giant's Causeway is a natural wonder made up of around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns. The unique hexagonal structures are the result of ancient volcanic activity and have fascinated visitors for centuries. The Visitor Centre offers interactive exhibits and guided tours, and there is also a trail with stunning views of the coast.
The Guinness Storehouse is an iconic attraction in Dublin, located in a seven-story building that resembles a pint glass. Visitors can learn about the history of the famous beer and the brewing process, as well as enjoy a Guinness tasting experience at the top floor Gravity Bar with panoramic views of the city. There are also restaurants and gift shops on-site.
The Christ Church Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in Dublin and a significant cultural and religious site. The building features a mix of architectural styles including Romanesque, Gothic and Victorian, and houses impressive artefacts such as the 12th century crypt and the medieval choir stalls. There are also concerts and events held in the cathedral's nave.
For this itinerary, the most convenient way to travel between the different locations is by car. Visitors can rent a car from Edinburgh (United Kingdom) and drive to Dublin (Ireland), making stops along the way. The estimated cost for a rental car and fuel is around £75 / €88 for the day, and the total driving distance is approximately 250 miles.
If you have more time, you can add more attractions such as the Edinburgh Royal Botanic Garden or the Dublin Castle. Alternatively, if you have less time, you can skip either the Giant's Causeway or the Christ Church Cathedral. Make sure to check the opening and closing times of each attraction in advance, as they may vary depending on the season.
There are several airports in the UK, Ireland and Scotland, including London Heathrow (LHR), Dublin Airport (DUB) and Edinburgh Airport (EDI). Edinburgh Airport is the closest airport to both Edinburgh Castle and St Giles' Cathedral, located only 8 miles away. Dublin Airport is around 7 miles away from the Guinness Storehouse and Christ Church Cathedral.