10 Days in Ireland: A Journey Through Emerald Isle

If you’re lucky enough to spend ten days in Ireland, you’re lucky enough. These enchanted lands are filled with ancient castle ruins, stunning views of the sea, and modern cities equipped with everything we need to balance the past with the present. 

Together, we’re going to take a tour of the Emerald Isle, starting as far north as we can go before sailing down the coastline and wrapping things up in one of the southernmost major cities: Cork City. Along the way, we’ll see how the locals live in these big cities, as well as visit a few charming villages that will steal your heart and stay with you forever. Ready to hit the road?

Fly Into Belfast or Donegal

While most people fly in and out of Dublin (it tends to have the most options), we actually want to start by getting you as far north as possible. When you land at either airport (Belfast is technically the UK), all you have to do is pick up your rental car and make your way to your first destination: Donegal City. If it’s before check-in, head to the town square for a hot meal at The Olde Castle Seafood Bar. It’s right across the street from 15th-century Donegal Castle – and well worth a tour. As soon as 4 pm rolls around, head over to Lough Eske Castle – the only place to stay when you’re in the area. Treat yourself to at least one night here so you can have a pint in the castle lounge and enjoy their breakfast the following morning. Spend the morning walking the castle grounds before you carry on to your next destination: Galway City. 

Head Down to Galway City 

From Donegal, it’s time to head down to another fabulous city. Galway is larger, and there is so much to see. One of the places you’ll want to spend a good chunk of time is the Latin Quarter, specifically Quay Street – a pedestrian-only lane packed to the gills with cafes, restaurants, and pubs that play traditional Irish music, or trad, every night. Spend at least a night at the Leonardo Hotel. It’s right at the foot of Quay Street and beside a car park that usually has plenty of spaces available. After you’ve mastered Quay Street, you can walk along the harbor in the Claddagh Region or head in the opposite direction to see the beautiful university and cathedral. 

Spend a Night In Doolin

Not far from Galway, there’s a tiny little village called Doolin. The population is barely more than 400 people. And, yet, it’s made a mark for itself as the mecca for traditional Irish music. The three main pubs are Gus O’Connor’s, McGann’s, McDermot’s, and Fitz’s – as part of Hotel Doolin. You can stay in a self-catering accommodation like Aran View Country House and walk down to the village. Or, you can book into the eco-friendly Hotel Doolin. During the day, head down to the pier to take in the stunning views of the Atlantic. You’ll also want to walk or drive up to Doonagore Castle, perched prettily on a hill. But, the other thing Doolin has going for it is the fact that it’s the gateway to the Cliffs of Moher. If you’ve brought your hiking boots, you can take the cliff walk to see this popular attraction or simply drive over, where there’s ample parking all around. 

Say Hello to Dingle 

There’s a special county in Ireland called Kerry. It’s as far south and west as you can get, and boy, it’s pretty. In order to make the most of your time in Kerry, we suggest staying in Dingle. The Dingle Skellig Hotel will put you within walking distance of the colorful village, which, again, you’ll want to visit at night to listen to the live Irish music. When you’re ready to sightsee, you can do the Slea Head Drive to take in, quite possibly, the most stunning views on the entire island. There’s also the Ring of Kerry, another drive dappled with glistening lakes and verdant valleys. You’ll find that the locals in this charming town are welcoming, kind, and always ready to show you the true definition of Irish hospitality.