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12-Day Family-Friendly Adventure Through Ireland and Scotland
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12-Day Family-Friendly Adventure Through Ireland and Scotland
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Day 1: Arriving in Dublin
Dublin, Ireland
10:00AM
Check-in at Accommodation
Settle into your family-friendly hotel, ensuring everyone gets recharged after your journey.
Head to the hotel near Temple Bar for easy access to attractions.
EUR150, 1 hour
11:30AM
Visit Dublin Castle
Explore the rich history of Dublin Castle, complete with beautiful gardens perfect for kids to run around.
A short 15-minute walk from the hotel.
EUR12, 1.5 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at The Woollen Mills
Enjoy traditional Irish food with a modern twist, including kid-friendly meals.
A pleasant 10-minute walk from Dublin Castle.
EUR50, 1 hour
2:30PM
Explore St. Stephen’s Green
A leisurely stroll through the park, feature playgrounds and many green spaces for picnics.
A quick 10 minutes walk.
Free, 2 hours
5:00PM
Dinner at The Church
An interesting venue in a converted church, great for families with a menu that appeals to all ages.
15-minute walk back to the hotel area.
EUR70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Dublin
Day 2: Dublin Highlights
Dublin, Ireland
8:00AM
Breakfast at Queen of Tarts
Start the day with delicious pancakes and pastries in a cozy cafe.
10-minute walk from the hotel.
EUR30, 1 hour
9:30AM
Visit the Natural History Museum
Children will love the exhibits on dinosaurs and other creatures of the past.
A 15-minute walk from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours
11:00AM
Guinness Storehouse Tour
Learn how the famous drink is made, with interactive exhibits perfect for all ages.
A 15-minute walk from the museum.
EUR25, 2 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at Brogan's Bar
Traditional Irish dishes await with a warm atmosphere suitable for families.
A 20-minute walk from the Guinness Storehouse.
EUR55, 1 hour
2:30PM
Visit Phoenix Park
Enjoy biking around the park, where you can also spot wild deer.
A quick bus ride or 10 minutes drive.
EUR15 (bike rental), 2.5 hours
5:00PM
Dinner at The Brazen Head
Dine at Ireland's oldest pub, featuring live music and a kid-friendly menu.
A 15-minute taxi ride.
EUR65, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Dublin
Day 3: Kilkenny Exploration
Kilkenny, Ireland
7:00AM
Breakfast at the hotel
Fuel up with a hearty hotel breakfast before you hit the road.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour
8:00AM
Drive to Kilkenny
Enjoy the scenic drive through the Irish countryside.
Approximately 1.5 hours via N78.
EUR15 (fuel), 1.5 hours
9:30AM
Visit Kilkenny Castle
Explore the beautiful castle grounds and gardens; perfect for family photos.
Located centrally, easy to locate.
EUR8, 1.5 hours
11:00AM
Stroll through Kilkenny Medieval Mile
Discover history with kid-friendly shops and street performers along the way.
Short walking distance from the castle.
Free, 1 hour
12:30PM
Lunch at Kyteler's Inn
Enjoy casual dining with a historical twist at this charming medieval inn.
A 10-minute walk.
EUR50, 1 hour
2:00PM
Visit the Smithwick's Experience
Engage in an interactive tour that gives a taste of Irish heritage and brewery process.
A short walk from lunch.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
3:30PM
Explore the Gardens at Kilkenny Castle
Let the kids run free in the expansive gardens around the castle.
Just outside the castle.
Free, 1 hour
5:00PM
Dinner at The Field Bar & Grill
Highlighting local produce with a kid-friendly menu, this is a lovely family dining spot.
20-minute walk or 5-minute car ride.
EUR60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kilkenny
Day 4: Killarney National Park
Killarney, Ireland
7:30AM
Breakfast at the hotel
Enjoy a nourishing breakfast before heading out for adventure.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour
8:30AM
Drive to Killarney
Another picturesque drive through Ireland's scenic regions.
Approximately 1.5 hours via N76.
EUR15 (fuel), 1.5 hours
10:00AM
Explore Killarney National Park
Set off on a family-friendly hike exploring nature trails and lakes.
Enter through Muckross House.
Free, 3 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at The Muckross Park Hotel Restaurant
Dine while surrounded by the beauty of the park.
Adjacent to the park entrance.
EUR80, 1.5 hours
2:30PM
Visit Muckross House & Gardens
Explore the lovely Victorian mansion and its stunning gardens.
Walking distance from lunch.
EUR12, 2 hours
4:30PM
Horse-drawn Carriage Ride
Enjoy a traditional Irish jaunting car ride through scenic trails.
Available from park entrance.
EUR30 (per family), 1 hour
6:00PM
Dinner at The Porterhouse
Relax with a casual dinner boasting Irish and international cuisine.
Return to Killarney town (15-minute drive).
EUR70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Killarney
Day 5: Discovering Galway
Galway, Ireland
7:30AM
Breakfast at the hotel
Prepare for a day filled with sights and sounds of Galway.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour
8:30AM
Drive to Galway
Enjoy another scenic drive, this time towards the vibrant city of Galway.
Approximately 2.5 hours via N18.
EUR20 (fuel), 2.5 hours
11:00AM
Explore Galway City
Stroll through vibrant streets filled with performers, shops, and colorful buildings.
Central pedestrian-friendly area.
Free, 2 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at Ard Bia at Nimmo's
Savor local seasonal food in a cozy atmosphere overlooking the water.
Located at Quay Street.
EUR60, 1.5 hours
2:30PM
Visit the Galway Atlantaquaria
Discover marine life with interactive exhibits for children to enjoy.
A 10-minute drive from downtown.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
4:00PM
Walk along Salthill Promenade
Enjoy refreshing sea air with beautiful views of the coastline.
A short drive from the aquarium.
Free, 1 hour
5:30PM
Dinner at The Fatted Calf
Grab some gourmet burgers and delicious sides in a welcoming environment.
20-minute drive as you return to the city.
EUR70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Galway
Day 6: Journey to Belfast
Belfast, Northern Ireland
8:00AM
Breakfast at the hotel
Fuel up for the drive to Northern Ireland.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour
9:00AM
Drive to Belfast
Experience more beautiful views on the road heading north.
Approximately 2.5 hours via M1.
EUR25 (fuel), 2.5 hours
11:30AM
Visit Titanic Belfast
A great family attraction that tells the story of the Titanic's history.
A short drive from the city center.
EUR22, 2.5 hours
2:00PM
Lunch at The Dock Cafe
Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with a family-friendly menu overlooking the Titanic Quarter.
Walking distance from the museum.
EUR50, 1 hour
3:30PM
Explore Belfast City Hall
Discover the beautiful architecture and enjoy the grounds for kids to play.
Short walk from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours
5:00PM
Dinner at Coppi
Family-friendly Italian dining in a stylish setting, popular for its delicious pizzas.
10-minute walk from City Hall.
EUR75, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Belfast
Day 7: Cultural Belfast
Belfast, Northern Ireland
8:00AM
Breakfast at the hotel
Enjoy breakfast before a day of learning and exploration.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour
9:00AM
Visit the Ulster Museum
Fun and educational exhibits await the family, including dinosaurs and local history.
A short drive from the hotel.
Free, 2 hours
11:30AM
Stroll through Botanic Gardens
Let the kids roam the gardens, while you enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Next door to the museum.
Free, 1 hour
12:30PM
Lunch at The Barking Dog
Informal dining with a menu that delights families; a very comfortable spot.
About 10 minutes walk.
EUR60, 1 hour
2:00PM
Visit St. George's Market
Experience local produce and crafts; weekends feature live music.
A 10-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours
3:30PM
The Peace Wall Tour
Learn about history with a kid-friendly guided tour focused on Belfast's peace process.
Arrange with local guides.
EUR50 (estimated for family), 2 hours
6:00PM
Dinner at The Crown Liquor Saloon
Historic pub experience with family dining options in a vibrant setting.
A 5-minute drive or a short walk.
EUR65, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Belfast
Day 8: Journey to Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland
7:00AM
Breakfast at the hotel
Partake in a hearty Scottish breakfast before crossing over into Scotland.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour
8:30AM
Drive to Edinburgh
Cross the border and enjoy views of rolling hills and valleys.
Approximately 2.5 hours via M1.
EUR30 (fuel), 2.5 hours
11:00AM
Visit the Edinburgh Zoo
Home to the UK's only giant pandas and a well-loved place for families.
Located in the city.
EUR22, 3 hours
2:00PM
Lunch at The Kitchin
A Michelin-starred meal suitable for families wanting to explore high-quality dishes.
A 10-minute drive from the zoo.
EUR100, 1.5 hours
3:30PM
Explore Holyrood Park
Enjoy the great outdoors with amazing views, ideal for a family hike.
A short drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours
6:00PM
Dinner at The Royal McGregor
End your day with a traditional Scottish meal in a warm, inviting pub atmosphere.
Located in the heart of the city.
EUR60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Edinburgh
Day 9: Edinburgh Adventures
Edinburgh, Scotland
7:00AM
Breakfast at the hotel
Fuel up before exploring more of Edinburgh.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour
8:30AM
Visit Edinburgh Castle
Explore Scotland's iconic fortress perched on Castle Rock, filled with history.
A short and scenic walk from the hotel.
EUR20, 2.5 hours
11:00AM
Stroll along the Royal Mile
Discover shops and street performances as you head down this historic street.
Easily accessible from the castle.
Free, 1.5 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at Oink
Sample the famous hog roast sandwiches; kid-approved cuisine for all.
A 10-minute walk down the Royal Mile.
EUR40, 1 hour
2:30PM
Exploring Dynamic Earth
A fun and interactive experience exploring the planet’s history and environment.
A short walk from the lunch spot.
EUR28, 2 hours
5:00PM
Dinner at Fhior
Wrap up your day with locally sourced dishes in a unique setting, great for families.
Short walk back towards city center.
EUR80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Edinburgh
Day 10: Discovering Glasgow
Glasgow, Scotland
7:30AM
Breakfast at the hotel
Enjoy a hearty Scottish breakfast before traveling to Glasgow.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour
8:30AM
Drive to Glasgow
Take in views of the Scottish countryside en route to Glasgow.
Approximately 1 hour via M8.
EUR20 (fuel), 1 hour
9:30AM
Visit Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
A free attraction packed with art and history exhibits appealing to kids.
Located centrally.
Free, 2 hours
11:30AM
Explore Glasgow Science Centre
Interactive science displays and exhibitions geared towards family fun.
A short drive or subway ride from the museum.
EUR20, 2.5 hours
2:00PM
Lunch at Six by Nico
A seafood-focused menu with something for everyone amidst a modern aesthetic.
A 10-minute drive away.
EUR70, 1.5 hours
3:30PM
Visit Glasgow Cathedral
An impressive historic cathedral with beautiful architecture to marvel at.
A 15-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour
5:00PM
Dinner at The Finnieston
Enjoy a contemporary Scottish dining experience, excellent for families who love seafood.
15-minute drive from the cathedral.
EUR80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Glasgow
Day 11: Loch Ness Day Trip
Loch Ness, Scotland
6:30AM
Breakfast at the hotel
Fuel up before a day of exploration in the Highlands.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour
7:30AM
Drive to Loch Ness
Embark on a scenic journey into the beautiful Scottish Highlands, keep an eye out for Nessie!
Approximately 3 hours via A82.
EUR35 (fuel), 3 hours
10:30AM
Take a Boat Tour on Loch Ness
Witness the stunning loch from the water and listen to the stories of Nessie.
Tours depart from various locations, book ahead.
EUR50 (family ticket), 1.5 hours
12:30PM
Lunch at The Loch Ness Inn
Delicious hearty meals to refuel after your adventure.
A short walk from the boat landing.
EUR60, 1.5 hours
2:00PM
Visit Urquhart Castle
Explore this iconic castle with sweeping views over Loch Ness.
A 10-minute drive from lunch.
EUR12, 1.5 hours
4:00PM
Scenic Drive back to Glasgow
Enjoy the breathtaking scenery as you make your way back.
Approximately 3 hours via A82.
EUR35 (fuel), 3 hours
7:30PM
Dinner at The Ubiquitous Chip
An iconic Glasgow restaurant known for its local cuisine in a relaxed environment.
A short drive from the hotel.
EUR90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Loch Ness
Day 12: Final Day in Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Scotland
8:00AM
Breakfast at the hotel
Enjoy your last breakfast in Scotland, reminiscing about your journey.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour
9:00AM
Walk the Royal Botanic Garden
Wrap up your adventure with a leisurely stroll through the beautiful gardens.
A short taxi ride or bus journey.
Free, 1.5 hours
11:00AM
Explore the Palace of Holyroodhouse
Visit the official residence of the monarch in Scotland and its lovely gardens.
A quick drive from the Botanic Gardens.
EUR15, 2 hours
1:00PM
Farewell Lunch at The Devil’s Advocate
Enjoy one last meal with classic Scottish favorites and a cozy ambiance.
Located in Old Town Edinburgh.
EUR70, 1.5 hours
3:00PM
Shop for Souvenirs
Spend your last hours picking up mementos from your unforgettable journey.
Proximity to Royal Mile.
Varies, 2 hours
5:00PM
Departure
Head to the airport for your flight back home filled with wonderful memories.
Drive to Edinburgh Airport.
EUR30 (taxi), 1 hour
Find Hotels in Edinburgh
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More About Ireland and Scotland
Trip Packing List: Italy, Greece, Ireland, Scotland, and England (February 2026)
Packing List
Itinerary created by
Plantrip Team
December 29, 2024
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