The Ultimate 30-Day Ireland Travel Guide

Saltee Island, Ireland

Let's embark on a magical 30-day journey around the Emerald Isle! This itinerary explores Ireland's stunning landscapes, rich history, vibrant culture, and legendary hospitality, balancing iconic sights with hidden gems and offering a blend of adventure and relaxation.

Ireland 30-Day Emerald Adventure: Your Ultimate Guide to Coastlines, Castles & Craic

Why This 30-Day Irish Guide is Valuable For You:

• Comprehensive Circuit: Goes beyond Dublin and the major tourist trails to cover all four provinces, including the dramatic Wild Atlantic Way, the historic East, the lakelands of the Midlands, and the unique culture of Northern Ireland (UK).

• Balanced Pace for Immersion: Combines sightseeing days in cities and historic sites with scenic drives, invigorating hikes, cozy pub sessions, and time to simply soak in the stunning landscapes and enjoy the craic (good fun and conversation).

• Wild Atlantic Way Deep Dive: Dedicates significant time to exploring various sections of this world-famous coastal route, allowing for flexibility and deeper exploration of its peninsulas, cliffs, and beaches.

• Cultural & Historical Richness: You'll encounter prehistoric tombs, Celtic ruins, medieval castles, monastic sites, Georgian architecture, learn about "The Troubles," experience traditional music sessions, and visit literary landmarks.

• Flexibility First: Use this detailed plan as your expert guide, but feel empowered to linger longer in areas you love, choose different hikes or activities, chase better weather, or simply follow a local recommendation. 30 days allows this wonderful freedom.

• Smart Transport Mix: Primarily relies on car rental (essential for truly exploring the countryside and Wild Atlantic Way flexibly), supplemented by trains for efficient travel between major cities like Dublin, Galway, and Belfast, and local buses/tours where convenient.

  
  

Ireland 30-Day Emerald Adventure: The Itinerary

Pacing Legend:

• (R) Relaxing: Slow pace, focus on scenery, pubs, culture, unwinding.

• (M) Moderate: Mix of sightseeing, gentle walks, some driving.

• (A) Adventurous: Hiking, significant walking/cycling, potentially long driving/active days.

• (T) Travel: Significant driving/train/bus travel time involved.

  
  

Part 1: Arrival in Dublin & Ireland's Ancient East (Days 1-6)

• Day 1: Arrival in Dublin (T/R)

  • Arrive at Dublin Airport (DUB). Take Aircoach, Dublin Express bus, or taxi to your city center accommodation (consider areas near Trinity College, Temple Bar - lively, St. Stephen's Green).

  • Check in. Gentle orientation walk: Stroll down O'Connell Street (GPO, Spire), cross the River Liffey via Ha'penny Bridge, dip into Temple Bar (can be touristy but atmospheric).

  • Relaxing welcome dinner and perhaps your first pint of Guinness in a traditional pub. Value: Easy arrival, vibrant capital introduction.

    
    

• Day 2: Dublin - Trinity College & History (M)

  • Morning: Visit Trinity College Dublin. See the beautiful Old Library and the Book of Kells (book tickets well in advance!). Wander the historic campus grounds.

  • Afternoon: Explore Dublin Castle and the Chester Beatty Library (free entry, stunning collection). Visit Christ Church Cathedral and/or St. Patrick's Cathedral. Value: Iconic university, historical landmarks.

    
    

• Day 3: Dublin - Guinness, Gaol & Culture (M/A)

  • Morning: Visit the Guinness Storehouse for the history of the famous stout, culminating in a pint at the Gravity Bar with panoramic views (book ahead!).

  • Afternoon: Take a tour of Kilmainham Gaol for a poignant look at Irish history and the struggle for independence (book tickets well in advance!).

  • Explore museums like the National Museum of Ireland (Archaeology is excellent) or the National Gallery. Value: Iconic brewery experience, important historical site.

    
    

• Day 4: Day Trip to Glendalough & Wicklow Mountains (A/M)

  • Pick up rental car OR join a guided day tour. Drive south into the scenic Wicklow Mountains National Park.

  • Visit the beautiful monastic site of Glendalough, set by two lakes. Explore the ruins (round tower, churches) and walk scenic trails around the lakes.

  • Drive through scenic spots like Sally Gap (weather permitting). Value: Stunning mountain scenery, important monastic site.

    
    

• Day 5: Boyne Valley - Newgrange & Hill of Tara (M/T)

  • Drive north from Dublin (keep car or take tour). Explore the historic Boyne Valley (Brú na Bóinne - UNESCO site):

  • Visit the prehistoric passage tombs of Newgrange and Knowth (access is only via the Visitor Centre - book timed tour well in advance!).

  • Visit the ancient Hill of Tara, seat of the High Kings of Ireland. Value: Incredible prehistoric sites, ancient royal seat.

    
    

• Day 6: Travel to Kilkenny & Medieval Mile (T/M)

  • Drive (or bus/train via Dublin/Kildare) south to the charming medieval city of Kilkenny.

  • Check in. Explore Kilkenny's "Medieval Mile": Visit Kilkenny Castle and its parklands, St. Canice's Cathedral (climb the round tower for views), wander the craft shops. Value: Best-preserved medieval city, castle exploration.

    
    

Part 2: Southern Charm & Start of Wild Atlantic Way (Days 7-13)

• Day 7: Rock of Cashel & Cahir Castle (M/T)

  • Drive towards County Tipperary. Visit the iconic Rock of Cashel, a spectacular group of medieval buildings on a limestone outcrop.

  • Nearby, visit the well-preserved Cahir Castle on an island in the River Suir.

  • Continue drive towards Cork City or stay near Cashel/Cahir. Value: Iconic historical sites, scenic drive.

    
    

• Day 8: Cork City & Blarney Stone (M)

  • Explore Cork City: Visit the English Market (foodie heaven), wander St. Patrick's Street, see St. Fin Barre's Cathedral. Enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere.

  • Take a short bus ride or drive to Blarney Castle to kiss the famous Blarney Stone (expect queues!) and explore the extensive gardens. Value: Lively city, iconic castle experience.

    
    

• Day 9: Kinsale & Old Head Coastal Scenery (M/R)

  • Drive south to the picturesque harbour town of Kinsale, known for its colourful streets and gourmet food scene. Explore Charles Fort overlooking the harbour.

  • Drive out to the stunning Old Head of Kinsale for dramatic cliff views (golf course access may be restricted, but viewpoints available). Enjoy fresh seafood. Value: Charming town, dramatic coastal views.

    
    

• Day 10: West Cork - Mizen Head & Villages (T/M)

  • Begin exploring the Wild Atlantic Way proper in West Cork. Drive through scenic countryside and charming villages like Clonakilty, Skibbereen, or Schull.

  • Drive out to Mizen Head, Ireland's most southwesterly point, with its dramatic cliffs, bridge, and signal station. Value: Rugged coastline, scenic driving.

    
    

• Day 11: Beara Peninsula Drive (A)

  • Drive the stunning and less-crowded Beara Peninsula (straddling Cork & Kerry). Enjoy winding roads, colourful villages (Eyeries, Allihies), mountain and sea views.

  • Consider taking the cable car (check operation) to Dursey Island (Ireland's only cable car over sea) for walking. Value: Spectacular scenic drive, off-the-beaten-path feel.

    
    

• Day 12: Travel to Killarney & National Park Intro (T/R)

  • Drive from Beara Peninsula (via Kenmare) towards Killarney, gateway to County Kerry.

  • Check into your Killarney accommodation. Gentle introduction to Killarney National Park: Visit Muckross House & Gardens, see Torc Waterfall. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Killarney town. Value: Arrival in major scenic area.

    
    

• Day 13: Ring of Kerry Highlights (A/T)

  • Drive a significant portion (or full loop, long day!) of the famous Ring of Kerry scenic route. Go counter-clockwise for best bus avoidance.

  • Stop at key viewpoints like Ladies View, Molls Gap. Visit charming villages like Sneem or Waterville. See Derrynane House (home of Daniel O'Connell). Consider Skellig Ring detour (seasonal access to Valentia Island bridge/ferry). Value: World-famous scenic drive.

    
    

Part 3: Kerry Peninsulas & Clare Cliffs (Days 14-19)

• Day 14: Gap of Dunloe Adventure OR Killarney Hiking (A)

  • Option A (Classic Adventure): Take a boat trip across Killarney's lakes from Ross Castle, followed by a walk or jaunting car (horse-drawn trap) ride through the dramatic Gap of Dunloe mountain pass. Arrange transport back.

  • Option B (Hiking): Hike trails within Killarney National Park, perhaps climbing Torc Mountain or parts of the Kerry Way. Value: Iconic Gap experience or stunning park hiking.

    
    

• Day 15: Skellig Michael Landing Trip (Seasonal/Weather Dependent) OR Valentia Island (A+/M)

  • Option A (Bucket List): Pre-book (months ahead!) a landing trip to the incredible Skellig Michael (UNESCO site, Star Wars location), a steep island with ancient monastic beehive huts. Very weather dependent, strenuous climb. Departs from Portmagee/Ballinskelligs.

  • Option B (Alternative): Explore Valentia Island via bridge/ferry. Visit the Skellig Experience Centre, Bray Head viewpoint, Tetrapod Trackway, Geokaun Mountain cliffs. Value: Unique UNESCO site or scenic island exploration.

    
    

• Day 16: Dingle Peninsula Drive - Slea Head (A)

  • Drive the stunning Slea Head Drive loop on the Dingle Peninsula. Stop frequently for breathtaking coastal views, Dunquin Pier, Coumeenoole beach, Gallarus Oratory (early Christian church), beehive huts.

  • Explore charming Dingle town, enjoy fresh seafood, maybe find a traditional music session in a pub. Value: Arguably Ireland's most beautiful scenic drive.

    
    

• Day 17: Dingle Relaxation or Blasket Islands (R/A)

  • Enjoy Dingle town: browse craft shops, visit Dingle Distillery, relax.

  • Option (Adventurous): Take a ferry trip (seasonal, weather dependent) to the evocative Great Blasket Island for walking and exploring the abandoned village, learning about its literary heritage. Value: Charming town time or unique island visit.

    
    

• Day 18: Travel to County Clare - Cliffs of Moher (T/M)

  • Drive north, taking the Tarbert-Killimer ferry across the Shannon Estuary into County Clare.

  • Head towards the iconic Cliffs of Moher. Visit the visitor centre and walk along the cliff paths for spectacular views (go later in day for potentially fewer crowds/better light). Stay overnight near the cliffs (Doolin, Liscannor) or further into the Burren. Value: Iconic natural wonder.

    
    

• Day 19: The Burren & Doolin Music (M/R)

  • Explore the unique karst landscape of The Burren: see the Poulnabrone dolmen (portal tomb), look for unique flora (seasonal), visit the Aillwee Cave or Birds of Prey Centre (optional).

  • Explore the coastal village of Doolin, famous for traditional Irish music sessions in its pubs (Gus O'Connor's, McGann's, McDermott's). Enjoy the atmosphere in the evening. Value: Unique landscape, traditional music hub.

    
    

Part 4: Galway Bay, Connemara & Northwest Passage (Days 20-25)

• Day 20: Travel to Galway City (T/R)

  • Drive or take a bus from the Burren/Doolin area to Galway City.

  • Check into your accommodation. Explore the vibrant city centre: Eyre Square, Shop Street, Spanish Arch, Latin Quarter. Soak in the bohemian atmosphere. Value: Arrival in lively, artistic city.

    
    

• Day 21: Galway City & Aran Islands Day Trip (M/A)

  • Option A (City Focus): Explore Galway Cathedral, visit the Galway City Museum, walk along Salthill Promenade. Enjoy fresh oysters.

  • Option B (Island Adventure): Take a ferry from Rossaveal (requires bus/drive) or fly from Connemara Airport to one of the Aran Islands (Inis Mór is largest/most popular). Rent bikes to explore Dun Aonghasa cliff fort, the Wormhole, traditional stone walls. Return ferry in evening. Value: City exploration or iconic island experience.

    
    

• Day 22: Connemara National Park & Kylemore Abbey (A)

  • Drive (or take tour) into the wild, beautiful landscape of Connemara.

  • Hike trails in Connemara National Park (e.g., Diamond Hill for stunning views).

  • Visit the picturesque Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden. Drive the scenic Sky Road near Clifden. Value: Rugged landscapes, iconic abbey.

    
    

• Day 23: Connemara Relaxation or Coastal Drive (R/M)

  • Enjoy Connemara at a slower pace. Relax in Clifden or Roundstone village. Find a quiet beach (Dog's Bay/Gurteen Bay). Drive smaller coastal roads. Value: Downtime in beautiful scenery.

    
    

• Day 24: Travel towards County Mayo / Sligo (T/M)

  • Drive north from Connemara towards County Mayo or Sligo.

  • Options: Visit Westport House, climb Croagh Patrick (pilgrimage mountain - demanding hike), explore Achill Island (connected by bridge - dramatic cliffs, beaches), or head towards Sligo town (Yeats Country). Value: Scenic drive, choice of attractions.

    
    

• Day 25: Yeats Country (Sligo) & Donegal Coast (M)

  • Explore Sligo area: Visit Drumcliffe Churchyard (Yeats' grave), see Benbulben mountain's dramatic shape, visit Lissadell House (seasonal).

  • Continue drive north into County Donegal, starting another stunning section of the Wild Atlantic Way. Perhaps visit Slieve League cliffs (higher than Moher, less developed access). Stay overnight in Donegal Town or nearby. Value: Literary connections, dramatic cliffs.

    
    

Part 5: Northern Ireland & Return Journey (Days 26-30)

• Day 26: Donegal Scenery & Travel to Derry/Londonderry (T/M)

  • Explore more of Donegal if desired (Glenveagh National Park?).

  • Drive towards Northern Ireland (UK - remember currency change £, check car insurance). Head to Derry/Londonderry.

  • Walk the historic City Walls (unique complete circuit). Learn about the city's complex history ("The Troubles") through murals (Bogside) and museums (Museum of Free Derry, Tower Museum). Value: Entering NI, important history, unique walled city.

    
    

• Day 27: Causeway Coastal Route - Giant's Causeway & Rope Bridge (A)

  • Drive the stunning Causeway Coastal Route:

  • Visit the Giant's Causeway (UNESCO site) - explore the unique hexagonal basalt columns (allow ample time, Visitor Centre optional).

  • Cross the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (seasonal, requires booking, not for faint-hearted!).

  • See Dunluce Castle ruins, The Dark Hedges (Game of Thrones fame). Stay overnight along the coast (e.g., Bushmills, Ballycastle) or head towards Belfast. Value: World-class scenery, iconic landmarks.

    
    

• Day 28: Belfast City Exploration (T/M)

  • Drive to Belfast. Return rental car if flying from Belfast, or keep for final leg. Check in.

  • Visit Titanic Belfast (world-class exhibition on the ship's birthplace). Explore the Cathedral Quarter (pubs, arts). See Belfast City Hall.

  • Consider a Black Cab tour for insights into the city's political history and murals. Value: Major museum, complex history, vibrant city.

    
    

• Day 29: Travel back to Dublin / Buffer Day (T/R)

  • Option A: Drive back to Dublin (approx. 2 hours).

  • Option B: Take the Enterprise train from Belfast Lanyon Place to Dublin Connolly (approx. 2 hours).

  • Use as buffer time, final Dublin souvenir shopping, revisit a favourite pub, relax. Farewell dinner. Value: Efficient return travel, buffer time.

    
    

• Day 30: Departure (T)

  • Enjoy a final Full Irish breakfast.

  • Travel to Dublin Airport (DUB) for your departure.

  • Leave Ireland with a full heart, countless memories, and maybe a newfound appreciation for rain!

    
    

Essential Tips for Your 30-Day Irish Trip:

• Car Rental: Highly recommended for flexibility, especially along the Wild Atlantic Way and in rural areas. Drive on the LEFT! Roads can be narrow and winding – take your time. Automatic transmission cars often cost more and need booking further ahead. Check insurance carefully, especially if crossing into Northern Ireland.

• Accommodation: Wide range: Hotels, B&Bs (famous for hospitality & hearty breakfasts), Guesthouses, Self-catering cottages, Hostels. Book well in advance for popular areas (Kerry, Clare, Galway, Dublin) and during peak season (summer).

• Weather & Packing: Expect rain anytime! Pack layers, waterproof jacket AND trousers are essential. Bring comfortable, waterproof walking/hiking shoes. Include sweaters/fleeces even in summer. Sunscreen is still needed!

• Pub Culture: Pubs are central to social life. Enjoy traditional music sessions (often informal, check local listings or ask), conversation (craic), and drinks (Guinness, Smithwick's, Irish whiskey, cider). Food is often served too.

• Booking: Book key attractions ahead: Book of Kells, Kilmainham Gaol, Guinness Storehouse, Newgrange, Blarney Castle, Skellig Michael trips (very far ahead!). Accommodation and car rental are crucial to book early.

• Currency: Republic of Ireland uses the Euro (€). Northern Ireland uses the Pound Sterling (£). Cards widely accepted, but carry cash for smaller purchases, rural pubs, some B&Bs.

• Language: English is universally spoken. Irish (Gaeilge) is the first official language, you'll see it on signs (especially in Gaeltacht/Irish-speaking regions) and hear it spoken, but won't need it to get by.

• Driving Times: Distances may look short on a map, but narrow, winding roads mean driving often takes longer than expected. Allow ample time, enjoy the scenery, pull over safely for photos.

  
  

Sláinte! Have an absolutely fantastic 30-day adventure exploring the magic of Ireland!

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