10-Day Scenic and Cultural Journey Through Ireland: Dublin to Galway and Back

Day 1: Arrival and Trinity

Dublin, Ireland on August 20, 2025

6:30am

Arrive at Dublin Airport

Landing in Dublin early morning, settle your luggage and prepare for a full day of city exploration.

0 EUR, 1h0m

7:30am

Breakfast at Queen of Tarts

Start your day with delightful Irish pastries and coffee at this charming café open from 8:30 am, perfect spot for a breakfast before heading to central Dublin.

15 EUR, 1h0m

9:30am

Walk to Trinity College

A gentle 10-minute walk through central Dublin to reach Trinity College for your scheduled tour.

0 EUR, 0h15m

10:00am

Trinity College Library Tour

Explore the historic Trinity College and the iconic Long Room Library; a must-see for literature and history enthusiasts. Tours run regularly and last approximately 1 hour.

15 EUR, 1h0m

11:30am

Visit Grafton Street

Enjoy shopping and street performances along Dublin’s lively pedestrian shopping street in the heart of the city.

0 EUR, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Brazen Head

Dublin’s oldest pub offers classic Irish dishes in a cozy historic atmosphere. Open 12pm-11pm.

25 EUR, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Dublin Castle

Discover the historic Dublin Castle with beautiful gardens and exhibitions open 9:45 am to 5:45 pm.

12 EUR, 1h30m

4:15pm

St. Stephen’s Green Park Walk

Relax with a stroll in this lush public park, a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy nature in the city center.

0 EUR, 45m

6:00pm

Dinner at FX Buckley

Savor premium Irish steak and seafood in this elegant setting, open until 10 pm.

40 EUR, 1h30m

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Day 2: Dublin Culture Day

Dublin, Ireland on August 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Fumbally

Enjoy a nutritious and innovative breakfast menu in this trendy Dublin café, opens at 8 am.

15 EUR, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Kilmainham Gaol

Tour the historic prison and learn about Irish history. Open from 10:00 am with tours lasting around 1 hour.

10 EUR, 1h15m

11:30am

National Museum of Ireland - Archaeology

Explore Ireland’s rich heritage with impressive artifacts; museum open 10 am to 5 pm free entry.

0 EUR, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Woollen Mills

Historic spot with modern Irish cuisine and river views, open from 12 pm.

25 EUR, 1h0m

2:30pm

Guinness Storehouse Tour

Discover the story of Ireland’s famous stout with interactive exhibits; opens at 9:30 am, last entry 5 pm.

25 EUR, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at St. James’s Gate

Enjoy a relaxed walk around the Guinness brewery area before heading back to the city center.

0 EUR, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Church

Unique dining experience in a restored church with Irish and international dishes, open till 11 pm.

35 EUR, 1h30m

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Day 3: Travel to Galway

Galway, Ireland on August 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Brother Hubbard

Enjoy a delightful breakfast with Middle Eastern inspired dishes in Dublin, open from 8 am.

15 EUR, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive from Dublin to Galway

A direct route west crossing scenic Irish countryside, approximately 2.5 to 3 hours drive.

0 EUR, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Ard Bia at Nimmo’s

Charming café by Galway Bay serving local and organic dishes, open from 12 pm.

25 EUR, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Galway City Center

Wander through the colorful streets, Spanish Arch, and Eyre Square to soak in Galway's atmosphere.

0 EUR, 2h0m

3:30pm

Visit Galway City Museum

Discover local history, art, and culture; open from 10 am to 5 pm, around 1-hour visit recommended.

0 EUR, 1h0m

5:00pm

Check-in and Relax at Hotel

Settle into your Galway accommodation and relax ahead of your ferry tour next day.

0 EUR, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at McDonagh’s

Taste some of Ireland’s best fish and chips in a lively traditional setting, open until 10 pm.

20 EUR, 1h0m

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Day 4: Ferry Tour Day

Galway, Ireland on August 23, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Coffeewerk + Press

Enjoy speciality coffee and breakfast options; opens at 8 am but may open earlier on request.

12 EUR, 1h0m

8:00am

Transfer to Ferry Terminal

Arrive early at the ferry terminal to prepare for your departure.

0 EUR, 0h30m

9:00am

Ferry Tour from Galway

Enjoy a scenic ferry tour highlighting the stunning coastline and islands nearby; duration varies, approximately 3 hours.

35 EUR, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Ard Bia or Cava Bodega

Return to Galway city and refuel at one of these popular eateries with fresh local fare and tapas style dishes.

25 EUR, 1h0m

2:00pm

Relax and Explore Galway

Visit local shops, enjoy street performances or stroll along the River Corrib.

0 EUR, 2h0m

5:00pm

Coffee Break at The Galleon

Unwind with a coffee or light refreshments at this comfortable café and pub.

8 EUR, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Dela

Modern and fresh dining experience with excellent seafood and small plates, open until 10 pm.

30 EUR, 1h30m

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Day 5: Explore Galway Region

Galway, Ireland on August 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Gourmet Tart Company

Delicious locally made tarts and coffee; opens at 8 am.

12 EUR, 1h0m

9:30am

Day Trip to Connemara National Park

Explore Ireland’s wild west with stunning landscapes and scenic hikes; park open all day, recommended 3-4 hours visit.

0 EUR, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at O’Dalaigh’s

Traditional Irish cuisine in a relaxed pub setting back in Galway city, open 12 pm.

20 EUR, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit the Galway Cathedral

Admire beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere; open until 6 pm.

0 EUR, 1h0m

5:00pm

Walk the Salthill Promenade

Enjoy stunning views over Galway Bay on this seaside promenade, a local favorite.

0 EUR, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Kirwan’s Lane

Taste creative Irish dishes with a cozy atmosphere, open till 11 pm.

35 EUR, 1h30m

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Day 6: Return to Dublin

Dublin, Ireland on August 25, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Kai Café + Restaurant

Farm-to-table inspired breakfast with a focus on fresh ingredients, opens at 8 am.

15 EUR, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive back from Galway to Dublin

Return journey with optional stops at scenic sites like the Clonmacnoise Monastery.

0 EUR, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch on route at The Linnane’s Lobster Bar (Kinvara)

Enjoy coastal seafood delights, open 12 pm to 9 pm.

25 EUR, 1h0m

2:30pm

Check-in and relax at Dublin hotel

Rest and prepare for your final days exploring Dublin.

0 EUR, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Phoenix Park and Dublin Zoo

One of Europe’s largest urban parks with the popular zoo, open 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.

20 EUR, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Vintage Kitchen

Intimate bistro serving modern Irish cuisine, open until 10 pm.

35 EUR, 1h30m

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Day 7: Dublin Leisure Day

Dublin, Ireland on August 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Urbanity

A trendy café focusing on creative breakfast choices, open from 8 am.

12 EUR, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit National Gallery of Ireland

Explore Irish and European art in this free museum, opens 10 am to 5:30 pm.

0 EUR, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Market Bar

Vibrant pub with good food and atmosphere in Temple Bar area, open 12 pm to late.

25 EUR, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Ha’penny Bridge and River Liffey walk

Enjoy scenic views crossing the famous pedestrian bridge along the river.

0 EUR, 1h0m

3:00pm

Relaxing afternoon at Powerscourt Townhouse Centre

Shopping and tea in this chic Georgian townhouse shopping center open till 6:30 pm.

Varies, 1h30m

6:00pm

Pub crawl in Temple Bar District

Experience the lively pub scene with traditional music and pints, many venues open late.

Varies, 3h0m

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Day 8: Day Trip or Dublin Surrounds

Dublin, Ireland on August 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Brother Hubbard North

Hearty breakfast with Middle Eastern flairs, opens from 8 am.

15 EUR, 1h0m

9:00am

Day trip to Howth

Delight in coastal scenery, walking trails, and fresh seafood. Howth is a 30-minute train from Dublin and offers a picturesque Irish fishing village experience.

15 EUR round trip, 6h0m