6-Day Cultural Immersion Itinerary in Ireland

• Day 1: Dublin - Start your day with a visit to the Trinity College Library, home to the famous Book of Kells. Next, head to the Guinness Storehouse to learn about the history and making of the famous Irish stout. End the day with a traditional Irish meal and live music at The Brazen Head, Ireland's oldest pub.
• Day 2: Kilkenny - Explore the charming town of Kilkenny and its Medieval Mile, a stretch of historical sites including Kilkenny Castle and St. Canice's Cathedral. Visit Smithwick's Brewery and end your day at Kyteler's Inn, a pub with a sinister past and great Irish food.
• Day 3: County Galway - Spend the day exploring the rugged beauty of Connemara National Park and the charming town of Clifden with its colorful buildings and traditional Irish music. End the day with a visit to the Galway City Museum and a pint at Taaffe's Bar.
• Day 4: County Cork - Visit the Blarney Castle to kiss the famous Blarney Stone and gain the "gift of gab". Next, explore the charming town of Kinsale with its colorful buildings and nearby beaches. End the day with a visit to The English Market, a unique indoor market with a variety of local foods.
• Day 5: County Clare - Experience the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland's most popular natural attractions. Next, visit the nearby village of Doolin, considered the home of traditional Irish music. End the day with a visit to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park to learn about Irish history and culture.
• Day 6: County Wicklow - Explore the stunning scenery of the Wicklow Mountains and visit the peaceful Glendalough Monastic Site with its two ruined churches and round tower. End the day with a visit to Avoca Handweavers, a famous Irish woolen mill.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Trinity College Library (2 hours, €14)
• Guinness Storehouse (2-3 hours, €25)
• The Brazen Head (2-3 hours, €25)
• Kilkenny Castle (2 hours, €8)
• Smithwick's Brewery (1 hour, €15)
• Kyteler's Inn (2-3 hours, €25)
• Connemara National Park (3-4 hours, free)
• Galway City Museum (1-2 hours, free)
• Taaffe's Bar (2-3 hours, €20)
• Blarney Castle (2-3 hours, €18)
• The English Market (1 hour, free to wander)
• Cliffs of Moher (2-3 hours, €6)
• Bunratty Castle & Folk Park (3-4 hours, €15)
• Glendalough Monastic Site (2-3 hours, free)
• Avoca Handweavers (1-2 hours, free)
Total Estimated Costs: €166-€197

Transportation

Consider renting a car for the trip to enjoy scenic drives and have flexibility with your schedule. Rail options like the Dublin Area Rapid Transit (DART) can also be a convenient way to get around the Dublin area. Keep in mind that Ireland drives on the left-hand side of the road. The approximate travel time between each itinerary stop varies between 30-120 minutes.

Total Estimated Transportation Costs: €100-€300

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider adding stops to the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula. If you have less time, consider skipping Kinsale and the Wicklow Mountains. Bring a sturdy pair of walking shoes and a waterproof jacket as the weather can be unpredictable. Lastly, be sure to try traditional Irish dishes like Irish stew, fish and chips, and soda bread.

Airports

The main airport in Ireland is Dublin Airport (DUB), located roughly 6 miles north from Dublin city center. Shannon Airport (SNN) and Cork Airport (ORK) are other popular airports, with SNN located closer to County Clare and ORK closer to County Cork.