Ireland in 8 Days: 3 Recommended 8-day Itineraries to Ireland
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Ireland 8-day Itinerary Options
With 8 days to spend in Ireland, you have plenty of time to explore its vibrant cities and breathtaking landscapes. From Dublin’s rich history to the rugged beauty of the west coast, check out our Ireland 8-day itinerary suggestions below to make the most of your adventure!
Itinerary #1: Northern and Southern Ireland
| Overview | Activity | Overnight | |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Belfast and explore the Cathedral Quarter and Titanic Belfast. | City exploration | Belfast |
| Day 2 | Giant's Causeway day trip, return to Belfast, and explore the Troubles-related areas. | Cultural exploration | Belfast |
| Day 3 | Travel to Galway by public bus and enjoy the tour of Galway Cathedral and local neighborhoods. | Bus ride and city sightseeing | Galway |
| Day 4 | Take a day trip to the Aran Islands by ferry and explore the historical sites. | Ferry ride and historical exploration | Aran Island |
| Day 5 | Visit the Cliffs of Moher, stop at Adare village, and arrive in Killarney. | Village visit | Killarney |
| Day 6 | Ring of Kerry day trip with stops at scenic viewpoints and a sheep farm visit. | Farm visit | Ring of Kerry |
| Day 7 | Travel to Cork by train for a city tour, before proceeding to Dublin; explore Dublin's streets and nightlife. | City sightseeing | Dublin |
| Day 8 | Free day in Dublin and departure (optional exploration). | Departure |
This 8 days in Ireland itinerary begins in Belfast and concludes in Dublin. Explore the rugged beauty of the Emerald Isle, from the iconic Giant's Causeway with its mystical basalt columns to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Wander through the historic cities of Belfast and Dublin, where vibrant pubs resonate with live music and the aroma of hearty pub fare. Discover the Aran Islands by ferry, where Gaelic culture thrives amidst ancient ruins and windswept landscapes. Continue your exploration of the iconic Cliffs of Moher, where dramatic cliffs meet the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Traverse the scenic Ring of Kerry, known for its picturesque landscapes and traditional sheep farming. Conclude your journey in Dublin, Ireland's lively capital, where you can explore its vibrant pubs, and cultural landmarks at your leisure. See all 8-day holidays in Ireland.
Itinerary #2: Castles and Manors
| Overview | Activity | Overnight | |
| Day 1 | Explore Dublin (St. Patrick's Cathedral, Georgian Squares, etc.) and enjoy traditional Irish dinner. | City sightseeing | Dublin |
| Day 2 | Travel to Galway, visit Galway Cathedral and Eyre Square; stay at The Lodge at Ashford Castle. | Scenic drive and exploration | Galway |
| Day 3 | Visit Westport House, and connect with locals for the Be My Guest experience; overnight at Abbeyglen Castle. | Castle exploration | Galway |
| Day 4 | Drive through Connemara and visit Kylemore Abbey and the oyster farm before returning to Abbeyglen Castle. | Exploration | Galway |
| Day 5 | Visit Connemara Celtic Crystal Factory, Kinvara village, and Cliffs of Moher. | Cultural exploration | Moher |
| Day 6 | Guided walk at Torc Waterfall and explore Ring of Kerry's coastal landscapes. | Walking tour and exploration | Kerry |
| Day 7 | Visit Rock of Cashel and Irish National Stud in Kildare; farewell dinner in Dublin | Exploration | Dublin |
| Day 8 | Transfer to Dublin airport for departure. | Departure |
Experience the best of Ireland in 8 days, beginning and ending in Dublin. Delve into Dublin's vibrant culture with visits to St. Patrick's Cathedral and the elegant Georgian Squares. Enjoy a traditional Irish welcome dinner before venturing west to Galway, Europe's “City of the Tribes.” Stay in luxury at The Lodge at Ashford Castle, nestled on the shores of Lough Corrib. Continue to Abbeyglen Castle in Clifden, where you'll connect with local stories and indulge in a Be My Guest experience at Westport House. Traverse Connemara's rugged beauty, visit Kylemore Abbey, and witness crystal craftsmanship at Connemara Celtic Crystal Factory. Journey to the Cliffs of Moher for breathtaking views and delve into Ireland's equine heritage at the Irish National Stud in Kildare. Conclude your journey with a visit to the Rock of Cashel and a Farewell Dinner in Dublin. See all Ireland holidays.
Itinerary #3: Walking and Cycling the Wild Atlantic Way
| Overview | Activity | Overnight | |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Killarney, explore Killarney National Park, and visit Muckross House and Abbey. | National park visits | Killarney |
| Day 2 | Cycle to Ross Castle, a boat trip through the Lakes of Killarney, cycle through Gap of Dunloe, and return to Killarney. | Cycling and boat trip | Killarney |
| Day 3 | Panoramic walk from Galway's Bridge, visit Torc Waterfall, and return to Killarney. | Walking tour and waterfall visit | Galway |
| Day 4 | Transfer to Dingle and explore Dingle town (optional visit to Dingle Distillery, or boat trip). | Town exploration | Dingle |
| Day 5 | Cycle from Dingle to Slea Head and return to Dingle (optional visit to Blasket Island). | Cycling and scenic view | Dingle |
| Day 6 | Cycle to Ballydavid and Brandon Creek and return to Dingle. | Cycling and coastal exploration | Dingle |
| Day 7 | Walk along Dingle Peninsula, and explore the deserted famine village and Annascaul Lake before transferring to Annascaul. | Walking tour and historical exploration | Dingle |
| Day 8 | Bid farewell to Annascaul | Departure |
Experience the beauty of Killarney National Park, cycling to historic Muckross Abbey and Ross Castle. Traverse the stunning Gap of Dunloe and visit the enchanting Torc Waterfall. Head to Dingle, a hub of Gaelic culture and music, and cycle along the breathtaking Slea Head Drive, with views of Blasket Island. Explore Ballydavid and Brandon Creek, Ireland's westernmost point, before a scenic walk along the Dingle Peninsula, passing a deserted famine village and Annascaul Lake. You will experience authentic Irish hospitality throughout your stay, with cozy accommodations in guesthouses. Conclude your journey in Annascaul, nestled at the foothills of Slieve Mish Mountains, with memories of Kerry's stunning landscapes and rich heritage.
You can customize this Ireland itinerary as per your liking.
Need help planning a 8-day itinerary to Ireland?
Spending around 8 days in Ireland opens a gateway to a land steeped in history, myth, and natural beauty. From exploring the vibrant streets of Dublin to the dramatic cliffs of Moher, when it comes to things to do in Ireland the sky’s the limit. Our carefully crafted Ireland 8-day itinerary ideas above ensure an immersive journey through this enchanting country.
For seasonal overview, check our guide on the best time to visit Ireland. Want a more personalized tour experience? Contact our local experts to create a customized Ireland itinerary for your 8-day tour to Ireland. For more duration related articles, check out our guides on how many days to spend in Ireland, 7 days in Ireland, and 9 days in Ireland
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