Curator’s statement
Ireland is the place of my ancestors. We are a family of gingers that has always had Ireland in our hearts. The beauty, tranquility, and hospitality of the native people have been at the core of its appeal. And who doesn’t love an Irish accent?
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Day 1: Dublin arrival
I recommend flying in to Dublin to get your trip kicked off with some city fun. Dublin is a very walkable and public transit-friendly town, so you can get away with not having a car right off the bat. My first tip is to walk around town and find a place to grab a bite to eat. You might have some jetlag, so I would keep this day light with food and exploration.
Day 2: Local sites
The spooky side of Dublin
Today is when you will want to do some sightseeing. I recommend Trinity College and Dublin Castle. Find a new pub for dinner and maybe sneak in a whimsical ghost tour to round out your evening.
Day 3: The road to Donegal
One of the Newgrange tombs
Today is the day to pick up your car rental and start really exploring! We are heading from Dublin to Donegal today. This is approximately a 3.5 hour drive straight through. But I suggest making a stop at the Newgrange World Heritage Site in County Meath, about an hour outside of Dublin and right on your way to Donegal. Here you will tour neolithic tombs older than the pyramids. After your stop, keep heading toward Donegal. Keep your eyes out for anything you might want to see along the way. The countryside of Ireland is full of little gems! Once you arrive in Donegal, get settled and go find a local pub!
Day 4: Glencolmcille Folk Village
Glencolmcille Folk Village
Today, you will explore Donegal. I suggest the Glencolmcille Folk Village. It contains six small thatched cottages, each one showcases a different era of Irish history, from the 17th century onwards. Going inside to look at how the people of Ireland lived hundreds of years ago was fascinating. And as always, I suggest ending the night at a local pub!
Day 5: Castles toward Galway
Parke's Castle
Today you travel to Galway. This is about a 3 hour drive from Donegal. Keep a look out for castles along the way! Check in, walk around, relax, find a pub.
Day 6: Nightlife and local fare
The view from inside Dunguaire Castle in Galway
Galway is known for its nightlife. So take the day to relax, maybe visit a museum or castle. While I was there, I visited Ashford Castle because it is featured in a book series I like. Take the night to enjoy the pubs and nightlife.
Day 7: Cliffs of Moher
Cliffs of Moher
Today is a heavy driving day but well worth it! Head out early and head to The Cliffs of Moher. This is a can’t miss in Ireland. The beautiful landscapes and the views from the cliffs are breathtaking. The cliffs are about 1.5 hours from Galway. After taking in the sights, you can head to your next stop in Cobh. Cobh is about a 3 hour drive from the cliffs. You’ll want the rest of the night to relax and do some laundry if there is a facility available.
Day 8: Cobh and Kinsale
Cobh, County Cork
Today you can take the time to enjoy the towns of Cobh and Kinsale. These are quaint little towns with shopping, food, and great harbor views. Cobh also hosts the Titanic Experience, which is a fascinating look into the past.
Day 9: Irish goodbye
Rock of Cashel
Today you head back to Dublin for an overnight stay before your flight home. On your way back, stop off at the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary.
Need to know
This is a whirlwind adventure, but you get to see the most amazing, beautiful parts of Ireland in a short period of time. Great for people that want to see a lot but can’t be away from home for too long.
One of the really cool things about Ireland is that you have no idea what you will find on the side of the road. We stopped at so many castles and ruins while we were traveling between our destinations. We even found a chocolatier right off the road during our travels.
If you have extra time, you can add a day to any destination, spend the night in a castle or two, visit the Ring of Kerry between Galway and Cobh, or visit Belfast in Northern Ireland.
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Christina Snedeker
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