Embark on an unforgettable journey with this 2-Week Itinerary in Ireland, and explore the wonders of the Emerald Isle at your own pace. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking authentic experiences, this itinerary has got you covered. From ancient castles to breathtaking landscapes, traditional music to lively pubs, Ireland offers a rich tapestry of culture and natural beauty waiting to be discovered.
Key Takeaways
- Discover the top must-see places in Ireland during a 2-week journey.
- Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide tailored for a 2-week stay in Ireland.
- Explore historic sites, scenic hikes, traditional music, and vibrant pubs.
- Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and culture of the Emerald Isle.
- Experience the best of Ireland with this ultimate 2-week itinerary.
Day 1: Dublin to Kilkenny
Embark on an exciting journey from Dublin to the historic city of Kilkenny. As you leave behind the bustling streets of Dublin, prepare to be enchanted by the natural beauty of the Wicklow Mountains. This scenic drive will take you through winding roads and lush green landscapes, offering breathtaking views along the way. It’s the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in Ireland’s mesmerizing countryside.
As you venture deeper into the Wicklow Mountains, make sure to make a stop at the stunning Glendalough monastic site. Nestled in a picturesque valley, Glendalough is home to historic ruins and tranquil lakes. Take a leisurely walk through the ancient site and soak in the serene atmosphere.
Continuing your journey, arrive in Kilkenny, a city steeped in history and charm. Wander through its cobblestone streets and discover the rich heritage that lies within. One of the highlights of Kilkenny is the magnificent Kilkenny Castle, which dates back to the 12th century. Explore the castle’s opulent interiors and beautifully landscaped gardens, and learn about its fascinating history.
This first day of your itinerary sets the tone for the adventures that await you in Ireland. From the natural wonders of the Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough to the captivating history of Kilkenny Castle, you’ll be captivated by the beauty and richness of Ireland’s heritage.
Highlights of Day 1
| Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Wicklow Mountains | A scenic drive through lush green landscapes and winding roads. |
| Glendalough | An ancient monastic site with historic ruins and serene lakes. |
| Kilkenny Castle | A 12th-century castle with magnificent interiors and landscaped gardens. |
Day 2: Kilkenny to Kinsale
On day 2 of your Ireland itinerary, I recommend driving from Kilkenny to Kinsale. This scenic route will take you through some of the country’s most iconic sites, including the Rock of Cashel and Blarney Castle.
Start your day by visiting the awe-inspiring Rock of Cashel. This medieval religious site is known for its stunning architecture and rich history. Explore the ancient ruins and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Next, make your way to the legendary Blarney Castle. Here, you can partake in the famous tradition of kissing the Blarney Stone. Legend has it that doing so will grant you the gift of eloquence, or “the gift of gab.” Take your time to explore the castle’s beautiful gardens and learn about its fascinating history.
After visiting these historic landmarks, continue your journey to the charming town of Kinsale. Known for its colorful buildings and picturesque harbor, Kinsale offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty.
Take a leisurely stroll through the town’s narrow streets and admire the well-preserved Georgian architecture. Visit the Kinsale Museum to learn about the town’s maritime history and enjoy panoramic views of the coast from Charles Fort.
In the evening, treat yourself to a delicious dinner in one of Kinsale’s traditional pubs. Savor fresh seafood dishes and soak in the lively atmosphere while enjoying traditional Irish music.
With a day filled with historical landmarks and the vibrant charm of Kinsale, day 2 of your Ireland adventure promises to be unforgettable.
Day 3: Kinsale to Killarney
On day 3 of your 2-week Ireland itinerary, make your way from the charming town of Kinsale to the breathtaking Killarney National Park. Prepare to be mesmerized by the natural beauty that awaits you.
Start your day by driving from Kinsale to Killarney, a journey that will take you through scenic landscapes and picturesque countryside. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to soak in the charm of rural Ireland and witness its untouched beauty.
Once you arrive in Killarney, it’s time to immerse yourself in the wonders of Killarney National Park. Spanning over 25,000 acres, this lush and diverse park is a nature lover’s paradise. Prepare to be enthralled by its majestic mountains, sparkling lakes, and enchanting waterfalls.
One of the highlights of the park is the famous Gap of Dunloe. This narrow mountain pass offers a scenic route for hikers, cyclists, and even horse-drawn carriages. Marvel at the towering cliffs and emerald-green fields as you make your way through this picturesque landscape.
To truly experience the wonders of Killarney National Park, consider taking a boat trip on the lakes. Glide across the tranquil waters and admire the stunning scenery that surrounds you. Keep an eye out for native wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of this untouched natural oasis.
Exploring Killarney National Park and Gap of Dunloe
| Activities | Duration |
|---|---|
| Boat trip on the lakes | 2-3 hours |
| Scenic cycling through Gap of Dunloe | 4-5 hours |
| Hiking in the park | Flexible |
After a day of exploring Killarney National Park and the Gap of Dunloe, take some time to relax and enjoy the vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine that Killarney has to offer. Whether you choose to unwind in a cozy pub or indulge in a traditional Irish meal, you’re sure to end your day on a high note.
Tomorrow, get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure as you explore the renowned Ring of Kerry and Skellig Ring. Stay tuned for more breathtaking scenery and captivating experiences on your 2-week journey through the Emerald Isle.
Day 4: The Ring of Kerry and Skellig Ring to Valentia Island
Embark on a scenic drive along the Ring of Kerry, one of Ireland’s most famous scenic routes. This breathtaking coastal road showcases the beauty of the Emerald Isle, offering stunning views of rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming seaside villages. Begin your journey with a visit to the iconic Ladies View, where you can marvel at the panoramic vistas that inspired artists and poets throughout the centuries. Continue your drive through Moll’s Gap, a picturesque mountain pass with awe-inspiring scenery. Be sure to stop at the Kerry Cliffs, where you can witness the power of the Atlantic Ocean as it crashes against the towering cliffs.
If you’re seeking a more off-the-beaten-path experience, consider taking a detour onto the lesser-known Skellig Ring. This tranquil coastal route offers a quieter alternative to the Ring of Kerry, allowing you to immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of the region. Marvel at the rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and rolling hills as you make your way along this scenic road less traveled.
As the day draws to a close, make your way to Valentia Island for an unforgettable overnight stay. Located just off the coast, Valentia Island is a hidden gem known for its stunning natural beauty. It is also the perfect base for exploring the nearby Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to an ancient monastic settlement. Don’t miss the opportunity to embark on a boat tour to Skellig Michael and witness its awe-inspiring beauty up close.
Awake to the soothing sounds of the sea, ready to continue your Irish adventure as you bid farewell to Valentia Island and head towards the next destination on your itinerary.
Day 5: Killarney to Dingle
On day 5 of your 2-week itinerary in Ireland, we’ll be driving from Killarney to Dingle, a journey that will take you through some of the most breathtaking coastal landscapes in the country. Our destination for the day is the charming town of Dingle, famous for its traditional music, lively pubs, and undeniable Irish charm.
But before we explore Dingle, we must embark on the famous Slea Head Drive, a scenic route that will leave you in awe of Ireland’s rugged beauty and stunning coastal views. This coastal drive takes you through picturesque villages like Dunquin and Ballyferriter, where you can experience the authentic coastal Irish lifestyle.
During your drive along the Slea Head Drive, be sure to keep your camera ready as there will be many photo opportunities to capture the dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and rolling green hills that define the Dingle Peninsula. The route will also lead you to the edge of Europe, a place where you can truly feel the immensity of the Atlantic Ocean.
Once you’ve completed the Slea Head Drive, it’s time to explore the town of Dingle itself. This colorful and vibrant town is famous for its traditional music scene, and you’ll find plenty of pubs offering lively sessions where you can tap your feet to the rhythm of Irish folk music.
Notable Attractions in Dingle:
- Visit Dingle’s iconic Fungie the Dolphin, a friendly dolphin who has made the waters around Dingle his home and has become a beloved local celebrity.
- Explore the quaint streets of Dingle and browse through the local shops and galleries, where you’ll find unique crafts and artwork.
- Indulge in fresh and delicious seafood at one of the town’s many seafood restaurants.
- Immerse yourself in the rich history of Dingle by visiting the Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium and the Gallarus Oratory, a well-preserved early Christian stone building.
- Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic Dingle Harbor and take in the picturesque views of colorful fishing boats and the surrounding mountains.
After a day filled with scenic drives, traditional music, and exploration, find a cozy pub in Dingle to relax and reflect on the beauty of the Dingle Peninsula. Tomorrow, we’ll continue our journey through Ireland’s wonders as we head back to Killarney.
Day 6: Dingle
Today is dedicated to exploring the charming town of Dingle and its breathtaking surroundings. Start your day by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Dingle town. Take a leisurely stroll through its colorful streets, visit the local shops and galleries, and soak in the unique charm that this town has to offer.
After exploring Dingle town, it’s time to indulge in the delicious seafood that the region is known for. Whether it’s fresh fish and chips or succulent lobster, Dingle’s restaurants and seafood shacks offer a wide range of culinary delights to satisfy your taste buds.
If you’re up for some adventure, consider taking a boat trip to see the famous Fungie the Dolphin. This friendly creature has been a beloved resident of Dingle Bay for decades and attracts visitors from all over the world.
For those craving more breathtaking views, venture further along the iconic Slea Head Drive. This world-renowned scenic route will lead you to more stunning viewpoints and landscapes, including ancient archaeological sites, rugged cliffs, and picturesque beaches.
Take your time to explore, take photos, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you. As you drive along the Slea Head Drive, you’ll be captivated by the rugged coastline, vast Atlantic Ocean, and charming villages that dot the route.
After a day of exploration, head back to Dingle town and relax in one of its many lively pubs. Enjoy the traditional Irish music and friendly atmosphere as you recount the highlights of your day.
Tomorrow, we’ll bid farewell to Dingle and make our way back to Killarney, but for now, cherish the memories you’ve made in this beautiful corner of Ireland.
Day 7: Dingle to Killarney
As my journey comes to a close, it’s time to leave the charming town of Dingle and make my way back to Killarney. Luckily, I have the option to revisit the breathtaking Gap of Dunloe or explore more of the enchanting Killarney National Park.
Driving through the scenic countryside, I can’t help but be in awe of the natural beauty that surrounds me. The rolling hills, lush greenery, and crystal-clear lakes create a picturesque backdrop that is truly mesmerizing.
Upon arriving at Killarney National Park, I’m greeted by the stunning lakes, cascading waterfalls, and majestic mountains that make this park a must-visit destination. It’s hard to resist the urge to take a leisurely boat trip on the lakes or hike through the park’s many trails.
One of the highlights of the park is the famous Muckross House and Gardens. This grand Victorian mansion offers a glimpse into Ireland’s past and its beautifully manicured gardens are a sight to behold. Exploring the house and its grounds is like stepping back in time.
Before bidding farewell to Killarney, I indulge in a delicious meal at one of the town’s cozy pubs, savoring the flavors of traditional Irish cuisine. It’s the perfect way to end my unforgettable journey through Ireland.
| Highlights of Day 7: Dingle to Killarney |
|---|
| Option to revisit the Gap of Dunloe |
| Explore more of Killarney National Park |
| Visit Muckross House and Gardens |
Conclusion
After exploring Ireland for two weeks, I can confidently say that it offers a wealth of breathtaking experiences and must-see places. From the majestic Wicklow Mountains to the charming Dingle Peninsula, this 2-week itinerary has taken me on an incredible journey through Ireland’s diverse landscapes and rich history.
Throughout my trip, I marveled at the stunning beauty of places like Glendalough, the Rock of Cashel, and the Ring of Kerry. Each stop offered unique insights into Ireland’s past and present, with ancient ruins, medieval castles, and picturesque coastal views.
But the journey wasn’t just about sightseeing. Ireland’s vibrant culture and hospitality made my trip truly memorable. I found myself immersed in traditional music sessions at lively pubs, indulging in delicious seafood, and getting to know the warm-hearted locals who shared their stories and traditions.
With so much to explore and discover, this 2-week itinerary has only scratched the surface of what Ireland has to offer. It’s a place where natural wonders meet ancient history, where hospitality runs deep, and where every turn reveals a new adventure. If you’re looking to explore Ireland in 2 weeks, this itinerary is the perfect guide to start your journey.
