Roadtripping from Dublin to Doolin and Back

Jameson Bow Street Distillery Tour - Dublin

Trinity College Long Room - Dublin. Visit the Book of Kells and enjoy the iconic old library. Note: This is definitely a tourist attraction, so book tickets ahead.

Take the train to Howth - In about 30 minutes, you can leave Dublin and arrive in Howth, a small seaside town with a lot of charm. Warm up with a cup of tea in your own personal tea pot at The Dog House Blue's Tea Room and Restaurant, walk to the Howth Lighthouse and enjoy the sea breeze.

Tullamore D.E.W. Distillery Tour - Tullamore. One of the highlights was watching the tour guide make the perfect Irish coffee for us. If you enjoy hearing the history, seeing the barrels and a generous tasting, this tour is for you! We made our own blend to take home in the gift shop and when the team heard we were traveling for our wedding, they gave us a parting gift. Note: closed on Mondays.

Book a lakeside hot tub at Wineport Lodge - Glasson. We enjoyed a soak and a glass of champagne (and even a dip in the cold lake, which was actually invigorating!) Book about 2 weeks before your stay.

Curraghdugh Farm - Have the best day ever by going on an alpaca walk! Each person gets to walk with their own alpaca around the farm and visit the goats, sheep and chickens who live on the farm, and the proprietors are some of the sweetest people you could hope to meet. There are small cabin accommodations on-site for anyone looking for a farm stay. Notes: Book ahead, and although the drive is completely safe, be prepared to drive on European (i.e., narrow) country roads to get there.

Ashford Castle - The list of castles you can visit in Ireland is endless, but 800-year old Ashford Castle is truly an impressive estate that offers accommodation, falconry, boat trips, a spa and many other activities.

Cliffs of Moher - For fans Harry Potter & The Half-Blood Prince (or just fans of beautiful views,) the Cliffs of Moher is shocking to behold in person. The photos really don't do it justice! We took first-look photos here before our wedding ceremony. Note: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring an umbrella even if it's not raining when you leave for the walk!

Powerscourt Estate, House & Gardens - Take your time to explore and get lost in the 47 acres of gardens on the property. We didn't need to book tickets ahead of time, but tickets are required for entry.

Brazen Head: Dublin’s oldest pub dates back to 1198. Locally poured Guinness does taste better on Irish soil!

Fish Shop - Dublin: I had the best fish n’ chips I have ever had anywhere at Fish Shop. Make a reservation – they don’t take walk-ins.

Loose Cannon Cheese & Wine - Dublin: Close to shopping, the Molly Malone statue and the Trinity College Library if you’re interested in checking out the Book of Kells in the Long Room. A great place to take a break from exploring to enjoy a yummy cheese board and a glass of wine.

Bar 1661 - Dublin: A cheeky bar with a list of incredible classic and inventive cocktails. Perfect for a pre-dinner date drink.

King's Head Bistro - Galway. A cozy place to gather and enjoy a beverage.

Wineport Lodge - The Restaurant. Have a leisurely meal with a view of the Lough Ree and feel really taken care of by the amazing staff.

Kai Restaurant - Galway. One of the best meals I've ever had was at this Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant. The fish must have been caught that morning. Definitely make a reservation ahead of time.

Anthony's - Doolin. Caters to almost all dietary restrictions and offers a more upscale dining experience in the small town without any pomp. The bar program is top-notch, too.

McGann’s Pub - Doolin. The local favorite pub, which offers the traditional pub fare done really well and is known for live music. I also learned to pour a perfect pint of Guinness while fully decked out in my wedding dress.

The Ivy Cottage - Doolin. After browsing the local wool sweater shops, stop for a delicious lunch in what feels like a magical garden cottage.

Fika Rooftop - Bray. Near the Powerscourt Hotel and a stone's throw from Dublin. Pretty views to match your cocktail and delicious food.