How many days do you need in Ireland?

This itinerary covers 5 days in Ireland, which is a great amount of time to explore the main highlights. Depending on your pace and interests, you could extend or shorten the trip.

What is the best itinerary for Ireland?

Plan your perfect 5 days trip to Ireland. This detailed travel itinerary includes daily activities, local recommendations, and insider tips to make your journey unforgettable.

Ultimate 5-Day Ireland Itinerary: Explore Dublin and Cork

Day 1: Dublin Discovery

Dublin, Ireland

9:00AM

Breakfast at Bewley’s Cafe

Start your day with a traditional Irish breakfast or a delightful pastry at the iconic Bewley’s Cafe on Grafton Street.

EUR15, 1 hour

10:30AM

St. Stephen's Green Park

Enjoy a stroll through this beautiful and historic park, perfect for leisurely walks and people-watching.

Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Grafton Street Exploration

Wander down Grafton Street, soaking in the lively atmosphere and street performers, perfect for some shopping.

Free, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Woollen Mills

Enjoy hearty Irish dishes and a unique pub atmosphere at The Woollen Mills.

EUR20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Trinity College & Book of Kells

Visit the historic Trinity College and view the stunning Book of Kells, a must-see for history buffs.

EUR16, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dublin Castle

Explore the beautiful gardens and historical significance of Dublin Castle, once the seat of the English rule in Ireland.

EUR8, 1 hour

5:00PM

Drinks at The Church Bar

Relax and unwind with a craft beer or Irish whiskey in the unique setting of a former church.

EUR15, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Woollen Mills

Enjoy a hearty dinner featuring Irish classics before wrapping up your Dublin adventure.

EUR30, 1.5 hours

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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Dublin, Ireland

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Queen of Tarts

Savour delicious offerings, from pancakes to fresh pastries at this charming bakery.

EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kilmainham Gaol

Take a guided tour of this historic prison for a deep insight into Ireland's struggle for independence.

EUR8, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Irish Museum of Modern Art

Explore contemporary artworks in a beautiful historic setting; perfect for art enthusiasts.

Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Cafe Paradiso

Feast on vegetarian delights and local produce at this well-loved eatery.

EUR25, 1 hour

2:30PM

National Gallery of Ireland

Discover an impressive collection of art from the Middle Ages to the 20th century.

Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Temple Bar District

Experience the cultural heart of Dublin filled with galleries, studios, and eateries.

Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Brazen Head

Dine at Ireland's oldest pub, enjoying traditional Irish dishes in a lively atmosphere.

EUR35, 1.5 hours

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Day 3: Historic Dublin

Dublin, Ireland

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Bakehouse

Begin your day with freshly baked scones and local jam accompanied by a warm cup of tea.

EUR12, 1 hour

10:00AM

Chester Beatty Library

Marvel at a world-class collection of manuscripts and artefacts from Asia and the Middle East.

EUR12, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Dublinia

Step into the Viking and Medieval history of Dublin at this engaging exhibition.

EUR10, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Woollen Mills

Enjoy a casual lunch with locally sourced ingredients at this vibrant venue.

EUR8, 1 hour

1:30PM

Christchurch Cathedral

Explore the stunning architecture of this ancient cathedral and its crypt.

EUR6, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Walk along River Liffey

Enjoy a scenic riverside walk, catching sights of iconic bridges and the city's lively energy.

Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Dinner at The Long Hall

Savour pub classics in a beautifully decorated Victorian pub, an ideal conclusion to your Dublin stay.

EUR30, 1 hour

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Day 4: Cork Adventure

Cork, Ireland

8:00AM

Breakfast on the train

Enjoy a light breakfast from the café such as coffee and a pastry while onboard the train to Cork.

EUR15, 3 hours

11:00AM

Cork City Walk

Take a delightful city walk, visiting the famous English Market and discovering local shops.

Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Gino's Gelato

Indulge in delicious gelato to cool off and recharge for a day of exploration.

EUR8, 1 hour

1:30PM

St. Patrick's Street Shopping

Stroll along St. Patrick's Street and engage in a bit of retail therapy in Cork’s shopping district.

Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Elizabeth Fort

Explore this 17th-century star-shaped fort that offers stunning views of Cork.

EUR7, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Café Paradiso

Dine at Cork’s famous vegetarian restaurant, showcasing local produce in innovative dishes.

EUR30, 1.5 hours

Find Hotels in Cork

Day 5: Cork and Departure

Cork, Ireland

9:00AM

Breakfast at The English Market

Taste local pastries and fresh coffee at The English Market, experiencing Cork's culinary tradition.

EUR10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit University College Cork

Explore the stunning campus of UCC and its beautiful grounds, a perfect photo opportunity.

Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Murphy's

Savour traditional Irish stew or fish and chips at this local gem.

EUR8, 1 hour

1:00PM

Shandon Bells Experience

Climb the tower and enjoy ringing the bells and panoramic views of Cork city.

EUR5, 1 hour

2:00PM

Free Exploration Time

Spend your last few hours in Cork shopping or enjoying a coffee at a local café.

Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Depart for Dublin

Board your train back to Dublin, filled with unforgettable memories of Ireland.

EUR35, 2.5 hours

Find Hotels in Cork

Step 1 Outline Preview:

Ultimate 5-Day Ireland Itinerary: Explore Dublin and Cork

Day 1: Dublin Discovery

9:00AM

10:30AM

12:00PM

1:30PM

2:30PM

4:00PM

5:00PM

7:00PM

Day 2: Cultural Immersion

8:00AM

9:30AM

11:30AM

1:30PM

2:30PM

4:00PM

6:00PM

Day 3: Historic Dublin

9:00AM

10:00AM

11:30AM

12:30PM

1:30PM

3:00PM

4:00PM

Day 4: Cork Adventure

8:00AM

11:00AM

12:30PM

1:30PM

2:30PM

4:00PM

Day 5: Cork and Departure

9:00AM

10:00AM

12:00PM

1:00PM

2:00PM

3:00PM

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