Planning an 8-day Ireland itinerary using only public transport can be a pain in the backside… So, we’ve done all of the hard work for you!
We’ve spent 25+ years travelling around Ireland…
The itinerary below has taken that experience (and the many mistakes we made along the way) to create an itinerary that we’re confident you’ll love!
In a nutshell, this 8-day itinerary:
- Has been meticulously planned for those only using public transport
- Has an hour-by-hour itinerary for each day to save you time/hassle
- Follows logical routes that take you to hidden gems, tourist favourites and great pubs and restaurants
Who this itinerary will suit
Now, before you scroll down, take 10 seconds to look at the graphic above – each of our road trip itineraries have been tailored to specific needs.
This road trip is specifically for those of you:
- Starting in/near Shannon
- Using public transport and organised tours
- Looking to explore at a slow pace
- With a good level of fitness (i.e. it includes long walks and hikes)
- Remember, we have hundreds of different itineraries here if this one doesn’t suit you.
An overview of this itinerary
The map above gives you a very high-level overview of where this route will take you.
It uses several bases (e.g. Cork for 3 nights) and provides you with day-long road trips you can head off on, so you avoid having to change accommodation constantly.
Now, I’ll stop rambling on – here’s a day-by-day insight into each of the days below!
Day 1: Arrive in Shannon and head to Killarney
Day 1 of this 8-day Ireland itinerary is going to be very dependent on the time that you arrive into Shannon.
For this itinerary, we’re going to make an assumption that you’ve landed in the morning and are ready to explore from mid-afternoon.
You’re going to be spending 2 nights in Killarney.
Recommended accommodation in Killarney
- Budget: New Street Lodge (basic accommodation a stone’s throw from the National Park) and Castle Lodge (cosy B&B a 5-minute walk from Killarney House)
- Mid-range: Killaran House (exceptional accommodation in a great location) and Killarney Avenue (right by the park with excellent rooms)
- Luxury: Muckross Park Hotel & Spa (an elegant hotel a 10-minute walk from Muckross Abbey) and The Killarney Park (old-worlde style 5-star near the train station)
Stop 1: Bus or taxi to Limerick City
You can take the bus or a taxi to get to Limerick City from Shannon. We have outlined your options below.
Option 1: Bus
You can take Bus Eireann or Expressway into Limerick City. The buses leave just about every hour and cost around €10.
Option 2: Taxi
A taxi from the airport will take you around 22 minutes and cost anywhere from €35 to €50. There is information at the airport about getting a taxi.
Stop 2: Get the bus or train to Killarney
You have two options to get from Limerick to Killarney. We tend to opt for the bus, as it’s direct and an awful lot quicker.
Option 1: Train
You can technically take the train from Limerick to Killarney, but we recommend that you take the bus instead.
The train between the two takes at least three hours and has two changes (usually Limerick Junction and Mallow). The bus is a lot quicker and more straightforward.
Option 2: Bus
We recommend that you take Dublin Coach to Killarney. I know what you’re thinking, Dublin Coach? But I’m in Limerick going to Killarney! That’s the name of the bus company.
They are big green buses that are comfortable, affordable, and quick. The trip from Limerick to Killarney takes one hour and 40 minutes leaving from Arthurs Quay in Limerick City and arriving in the middle of Killarney.
The bus stops a couple of times, so make sure you get off at the right stop.
Stop 3: Arrive in the town and try and check into your accommodation
Welcome to Killarney Town! If you can, try and check into your accommodation – this will likely depend on when you arrive, as some places won’t allow you to check in until the afternoon.
Once you arrive, if you feel like stretching your legs a bit, consider grabbing a coffee to go from Bean in Killarney and then going for a little wander.
When you’re ready, it’s time to explore the area and we’ve three different ways of exploring for you to choose from.
There’s endless things to do in Killarney but a combination of the options below will help you see a good chunk of the area.
Personally, I think option 1 combined with option 3 is the way to go!
Option 1: The self-guided cycle
Killarney National Park is big and, while it’s a joy to ramble around, it’s the perfect spot to explore by bike (we’re speaking base on personal experience here).
You can rent a bike online in advance and then pick it up from the collection point on the Muckross Road.
You then cross the road and head straight into the park. There’s very few inclines and it’s a wonderful way to get around to Torc Waterfall, Muckross House and the Lakes of Killarney.
Option 2: The jaunty
Another great, and very unique way to explore Killarney, is via one of the traditional jaunting cars (i.e. the horse and cart).
On this 1-hour guided jaunty tour you’ll:
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- See Ireland’s highest Mountain Range – the MacGillycuddys
- Trot past the 15th-century Ross Castle
- See the impressive St Mary’s Cathedral
- Learn about Killarney from a traditional Jarvey guide
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Option 3: The Lakes of Killarney boat Cruise
Arguably one of the most popular tours in Killarney is this 1-hour (and very reasonable) boat tour that takes you around Killarney’s lakes.
The tour takes place on a glass-covered boat with heating and it gives you a completely different perspective of the national park.
You’ll drift by the 6th-century Innisfallen Monastery, see the highest mountain in Ireland and, at times, see Red Deer and White Tailed Eagles.
Stop 4: Dinner, drinks and music in Killarney
Freshen up at your hotel, then head out for a well-deserved dinner!
It’s been a long day and luckily enough, there’s plenty of places to kick back in for a fine feed and a tipple.
Our dinner recommendations
There are some exceptional restaurants in Killarney. Our favourites are the Mad Monk (they serve amazing seafood like sizzling crab claws and deep water prawn tagliatelle), Kitty O’Se (splash out on the Seafood Tower to share), and Murphy Browns (hearty Irish dishes like roasted duck and fish and chips).
Our pub recommendations
There’s some mighty old-school pubs in Killarney, too. For post-dinner drinks, head to JM Reidy’s, the Laurels Pub, or O’Connors.
They all have a traditional pub feel and are a great choice for a pint. JM Reidy’s has a lovely courtyard which is great in the summer, and O’Connors is perfect if you feel like cocktails.
If you want to hear some live music, JM Reidy’s and O’Connors often have live music sessions.
Day 2: The Ring of Kerry
It’s day 2 of your 8 days in Ireland, and today you’re heading off for an adventure on the stunning Ring of Kerry!
Be prepared for some amazing views and lovely beaches (if you’re visiting in the summer, you may want to bring swimming clothes and towels).
We’re going to recommend that you take this 7-hour Ring of Kerry day trip that’ll take you to all of the route’s highlights.
We’ll take you through the stops below, but note that 1, you may not always physically stop at all of these sights and 2, these tours are subject to change, so always check with the provider in advance.
Stop 1: Killorglin
Killorglin is a lovely little town on the Ring of Kerry. You’ll just be passing by, but keep an eye out of the window as it’s lovely.
The town is known for its annual Puck Fair, the country’s oldest street festival. It’s held every year in August, and following tradition, the fair starts with crowning the “king” goat
Stop 2: Dingle Bay and Inch Beach
As you pass through Killorglin, you’ll be driving alongside Dingle Bay and passing by Inch Beach, a long spit that juts out across the bay from the other side of the water.
Inch is one of Kerry’s most popular surf spots and you should be able to see surfers attempting to tame the waves here from afar.
Stop 3: Skellig views
As you make your way to Waterville, you’ll be passing by Ballinskelligs Bay, where on clear days, you’ll be able to spot the Skellig Islands off in the distance.
There are two islands – Skellig Michael and Little Skellig. The former shot to fame in recent years when scenes from a Star Wars movie were filmed on the island.
Stop 4: Waterville
Keep an eye out of the window as you pass through Waterville and discover why it was Charlie Chaplin’s favourite village in Ireland.
Chaplin first visited the village in 1959, after a recommendation from his friend Walt Disney!
Stop 5: Sneem
You’ll be making a stop in Sneem, a colourful little village on the Sneem Estuary. The river flows right through the middle of the village and there’s a lovely stone bridge connecting both sides.
The bridge dates back to 1810, with five arches and a staircase down to the water.
Stop 6: Kenmare Bay
As you drive out of Sneem on the Ring of Kerry road, you’ll be passing alongside Kenmare Bay, a long narrow bay that borders County Kerry and Cork.
This stretch of road hugs the coast and, while much of it is engulfed by tall trees, offers gorgeous views at times.
Stop 7: Moll’s Gap
Moll’s Gap is also known as Céim an Daimh in Irish or ‘Gap of the Ox’, but it gets its nickname after Moll Kissane, owner of a local shebeen (unlicensed pub).
The pub was established in the 1820s when the road was being built, and Moll’s homemade poitin (a strong liquor sometimes made from potatoes) was a favourite with the construction workers!
Stop 8: Ladies View
Ladies View is one of the most popular stops on the Ring of Kerry, with roadside parking directly facing the view.
The viewpoint was named in honour of Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting who were in awe when they visited in 1861 during a royal visit.
The view looks out over the Upper Lake with mountains rising up on either side. From Molls Gap and Ladies View, you’ll have views over the Black Valley, an isolated valley which was the last place in Ireland to get electricity!
From the previous viewpoint, try to spot the wonderful lakes of Killarney. There are three lakes in total: Lough Leane, Middle Lake (also called Muckross Lake), and Upper Lake.
Ladies View has fantastic vistas of the Upper Lake.
Stop 9: Torc Waterfall
According to local folklore, Torc Waterfall was home to a man who was cursed by the devil to turn into a boar each night.
When his secret was revealed by a farmer, the man burst into flames and retreated to the Devil’s Punchbowl.
The waterfall is breathtaking, tumbling for around 20 metres down rocks and boulders.
Stop 10: Back to Killarney for the night
After the waterfall, the tour makes its way back to Killarney.
Our dinner recommendations
There are some exceptional restaurants in Killarney. Our favourites are the Mad Monk (they serve amazing seafood like sizzling crab claws and deep water prawn tagliatelle), Kitty O’Se (splash out on the Seafood Tower to share), and Murphy Browns (hearty Irish dishes like roasted duck and fish and chips).
Our pub recommendations
There’s some mighty old-school pubs in Killarney, too. For post-dinner drinks, head to JM Reidy’s, the Laurels Pub, or O’Connors.
They all have a traditional pub feel and are a great choice for a pint. JM Reidy’s has a lovely courtyard which is great in the summer, and O’Connors is perfect if you feel like cocktails.
If you want to hear some live music, JM Reidy’s and O’Connors often have live music sessions.
Day 3: Cork City
Day 3 of your 8 days in Ireland itinerary takes you to Cork, where you’re going to spend the next two nights.
There’s some great places to stay in Cork City. Here are a few recommendations for you:
Recommended accommodation in Cork City
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- Budget: Sheilas Tourist Hostel (no-fuss hostel near the train station) + Redclyffe Guesthouse (nice and central with great reviews)
- Mid-range: The Metropole (central with superb reviews) and Hotel Isaacs (in the Victorian Quarter – top-notch rooms and reviews)
- Luxury: Imperial Hotel (stunning and very central hotel) and Hayfield Manor (beautiful, boutique, city centre 5-star)
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Stop 1: Take the bus or train from Killarney to Cork
Grab a bite to eat at your accommodation, then make your way to the bus or train station.
Personally, we prefer taking the train as it’s quick and comfortable. Read below for more detail:
Option 1: The Train
The handiest way to get from Killarney to Cork City is via the train. There’s a direct train that takes just under 1.5 hours (find more info on the Irish Rail website).
Please do note, however, that some trains from Killarney to Cork require you to switch, so make sure to check the journey details when you book online.
Option 2: The Bus
The bus from Killarney to Cork is fairly handy as well. You need to take the Expressway service that leaves from Killarney Bus Station.
It takes just under 2 hours and drops you at Cork’s Parnell Place station.
Stop 2: Cork City
Once you’ve arrived in Cork, head off to your hotel to drop off your things and freshen up (if you’ve been able to check in early). Then, get ready to explore the city on foot!
Stop 3: Shandon Bell Tower
Shandon Bell Tower is an iconic landmark in Cork City and a must-visit attraction! The tower is a part of the Church of St. Anne, which was built in 1722. The church was built to replace an old church on the same site that was destroyed during the Seige of Cork in 1690.
You’ll need to pay a small fee to get to the top of the tower, but from the top, you’ll have wonderful views of the city and you’ll be able to ring the bells!
From the city centre, it’s around a 10-minute walk to the Shandon Bell Tower.
Stop 4: Butter Museum
The Butter Museum is definitely more on the unique side as far as attractions go, but since Cork used to have the largest butter market in Europe, it seems appropriate to visit.
The Cork butter industry is a large part of why Irish butter is so popular to this day.
The museum is a 2-minute walk from the bell tower, with some interesting historical info about the city as well as the butter industry.
Stop 5: Lunch in the Cornmarket
Walk the short 6-minutes to the Cornmarket for lunch. Be mindful that the next stop is also a foodie destination, so don’t fill up too much! We recommend popping into Bodega for delicious pub grub, the Cornstore if you’re after something a little more upmarket, or Rising Suns if you’re craving a pizza.
Stop 6: The English Market
The English Market is only 4 minutes away from the Cornmarket.
It’s a beautiful covered market with impressive mid-19th-century architecture. It’s a beautiful covered market with impressive mid-19th-century architecture. Its name, “English Market”, was to help distinguish it from the Cornmarket, formerly known as the “Irish Market”.
The market dates back to 1788, making it one of the oldest covered markets in Europe. Aside from its history and beautiful architecture, the English Market is known for its delicious food, and you can get everything from artisanal olives to homemade jams.
Stop 7: Elizabeth Fort
Once you’re finished perusing the market, walk the 10-minutes over to Elizabeth Fort. The star-shaped fort dates back to the 17th century and currently sits off Barrack Street in Cork City.
The fort was originally on high ground, but over the years, the city has built up around it, although it still has fantastic views over Cork.
General admission is free, but if you’d like to learn more about this historic fortification, guided tours are offered at 1pm every day (€5), and audio guides are available in multiple languages (€3).
Stop 8: St Fin Barre’s Cathedral
St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral is just a short walk over from Elizabeth Fort. It costs €6 to enter and it’s worth every euro.
The Gothic-revival cathedral is magnificent, with three showy spies, impressive stone arches, and gargoyles decorating the outer walls.
Inside it’s even showier, with stone archways lining the sides of the nave, and a total of 74 windows, each with individually designed stained-glass panels.
However, our favourite part is the sanctuary ceiling – look up when you’re inside and you’ll see why!
The cathedral took 14 years to build, from the groundbreaking (1865) to the consecration (1879). It sits on top of a 7th-century Christian site, which is said to have been founded by St. Finbarr.
Stop 9: Dinner, drinks and live music
You have endless food and pub options in Cork City, regardless of what it is that you fancy on the night.
Here’s a few recommendations to get you started, but feel free to follow your nose:
Our dinner recommendations
There are heaps of brilliant restaurants in Cork City, but our personal favourites are Market Lane, Old Town Whiskey Bar at Bodega, and Cornstore.
Market Lane has a delicious-sounding menu featuring Irish favourites like pan-fried hake with braised leeks, smoked mussels, and baby potatoes, as well as international dishes like Sri Lankan vegetable curry with tempura aubergine and forbidden rice.
Head to Old Town Whiskey Bar for burgers, salads, and traditional pub grub, and Cornstore for steaks and seafood.
Live music and trad bars
There’s some might old-school pubs in Cork City, too. For drinks, check out Mutton Lane (a quirky traditional pub), The Oval (a historic pub named after its unique oval ceiling), and Castle Inn (a traditional family-run pub with a great atmosphere).
There are some great spots for hearing some trad music in Cork, our top choices are Sin E and The Corner House.
Day 4: Blarney and Cobh
You’re halfway through your Ireland itinerary and today, you’re heading to Blarney and Cobh. Get ready to see castles and cathedrals and to visit the Titanic’s last stop before her tragic end.
Grab a spot of breakfast in Cork before you head out for the day. We like Cafe Gusto and The Farmgate, but you could also wander around the English Market to find somewhere.
We’d recommend this 8-hour day trip that takes you to Blarney Castle and then onto the charming town of Cobh.
We’ll take you through the stops below, but note that 1, you may not always physically stop at all of these sights and 2, these tours are subject to change, so always check with the provider in advance.
Stop 1: Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle is one of the most famous of the many castles in Ireland. The current castle dates back to 1446, but prior to that, there was another stone castle on the site that dated back to 1210.
Blarney Castle has an interesting history and has changed hands several times.
It was besieged during the Irish Confederate Wars, seized by parliament in 1646, and confiscated in the 1690s during the Williamite War when its owner (the 4th Earl of Clancarty) was captured.
Stop 2: The Blarney Stone
The Blarney Stone is a block of grey limestone built into Blarney Castle. According to folklore, anyone who kisses the stone will be given the “gift of the gab” or the gift of flattery and eloquence.
The stone has been set into the castle walls since it was built in 1446, and it’s believed that the practice of kissing the stone dates back to the late 18th century.
Today, it’s a must-do activity in the castle, although it’s not easily achieved! To kiss the stone, you’ll need to be on your back and edge yourself closer to the stone to kiss it upside down.
There’s a large gap between the floor and the stone, but nowadays, thanks to health and safety regulations, there are metal bars to prevent you from falling if you slip through the gap.
There are several origin stories of how kissing the stone came about, from tales involving goddesses to Queen Elizabeth I, to 15th-century lawsuits.
Stop 3: Cobh
Cobh is a historic coastal town in Cork City harbour that’s beautiful to stroll around regardless of the time of year.
It was the last stop of the Titanic before it departed for New York and home to St. Colman’s Cathedral.
Stop 4: St Colman’s Cathedral
Cobh Cathedral, or St. Colman’s Cathedral, is one of Cobh’s iconic landmarks. It’s a gorgeous cathedral with large stained-glass windows, intricate carvings, and an impressive 90-metre spire that dominates the town’s skyline.
It took 51 years from the first cornerstone being laid to the cathedral’s consecration. Building the cathedral was a mammoth project and cost well over the initial budget.
It’s just as beautiful on the inside as it is from the outside, with large stone arches, pillars, and red marble shrines.
The cathedral is on top of a hill, so you’ll have great views over Cork Harbour.
Stop 5: Titanic Experience
The Titanic Experience gives visitors an immersive insight into what life was like aboard the Titanic.
It includes a 30-minute tour where you’ll experience an incredible cinematographic experience of the ship sinking.
Aside from the tour, the experience has several exhibitions telling the personal stories of the passengers, the role of the RMS Carpathia in rescuing survivors, and much more.
Stop 6: Back to Cork City for the night
Our dinner recommendations
There are heaps of brilliant restaurants in Cork City, but our personal favourites are Market Lane, Old Town Whiskey Bar at Bodega, and Cornstore.
Market Lane has a delicious-sounding menu featuring Irish favourites like pan-fried hake with braised leeks, smoked mussels, and baby potatoes, as well as international dishes like Sri Lankan vegetable curry with tempura aubergine and forbidden rice.
Head to Old Town Whiskey Bar for burgers, salads, and traditional pub grub, and Cornstore for steaks and seafood.
Live music and trad bars
There’s some might old-school pubs in Cork City, too. For drinks, check out Mutton Lane (a quirky traditional pub), The Oval (a historic pub named after its unique oval ceiling), and Castle Inn (a traditional family-run pub with a great atmosphere).
There are some great spots for hearing some trad music in Cork, our top choices are Sin E and The Corner House.
Day 5: The trip to Galway
On day 5 of this itinerary, you’ll be taking the bus from Cork City to Galway City.
As always, we’d recommend booking your bus ticket in advance to ensure you get a ticket and to avail of a lower price.
Recommended accommodation in Galway
- Budget: Feeney’s Audubon Lodge (in Salthill outside of the city by the sea) and Corrib View Guesthouse (a 45-minute walk from Eyre Square)
- Mid-range: Balcony House B&B (10-minute walk from Eyre Square) and Ash Grove House (gorgeous guesthouse near Galway Cathedral)
- Luxury: The G Hotel (luxury hotel in the city) and Glenlo Abbey (one of Ireland’s top hotels – 15-minute drive from the city)
Stop 1: Getting from Cork City to Galway City
The quickest and easiest way to get between Cork City and Galway City is by bus.
Both Expressway and Citylink offer a daily service.
The Citylink bus is the quickest bus between the two, it takes just under three hours.
Stop 2: Check-in, get lunch and decide between walking/the bus
When you land in Galway, head to your accommodation, get checked in and head for lunch.
By now, you must be hungry. There are heaps of brilliant places for lunch in Galway, but if you don’t want the hassle of finding somewhere to eat, we’ve got a few suggestions!
We recommend Blakes Bar (traditional pub grub), Zappis (authentic Italian cuisine), or Tigh Neachtain (Irish and international cuisine).
Now, Galway is a very walkable city, but if it’s raining or if you fancy getting dropped to the ‘main’ attractions the hop-on/hop-off bus tour is well worth buying.
Regardless of which option you choose, here are some of our favourite sites in Galway City (we’ve listed them in a logical way for you to walk between them).
Stop 3: Galway Cathedral
Galway Cathedral is wonderfully impressive both inside and out. It’s arguably the jewel in the Galway City skyline and you’ll cop it from many places as you stroll around the city.
Interestingly enough, it’s not as old as it looks, and construction on the building was only completed in 1965, earning it the title of ‘the last great stone cathedral to be constructed in Europe’.
The cathedral is free to enter but visitors are asked for a donation of €2 to help with the building’s upkeep.
Stop 4: Quay Street and the Latin Quarter
Galway’s colourful streets are an absolute joy the ramble along regardless of the time of year.
If you’re walking from the cathedral, you’re a short stroll away from the Latin Quarter and Quay Street where you can have a nosey around.
These streets are alive with the buzz from tourists and locals alike.
Stop 5: The Hall of the Red Earl
One of our favourite places to visit in Galway (especially if it’s raining!) is the Hall of the Red Earl.
The Hall of the Red Earl is one of Galway’s most interesting sites. The ruins date back to the 13th century, with ties to the founding of Galway and the Anglo-Norman De Burgo family.
It was the first municipal building in the city, used for collecting taxes, hosting banquets, and sentencing criminals.
The Hall of the Red Earl was lost as the city grew until 1997, when the ruins were unearthed by archaeologists on behalf of the Office of the Public Works.
Today, you can walk amongst the ruins, view the artefacts, and learn about the hall’s history from the informative displays.
Stop 6: Galway City Museum
The Galway City Museum is just a stone’s throw from the Spanish Arch. It’s one of the best places to learn about Galway’s history, culture, and archaeology, with collections telling the story of prehistoric Galway all the way through to 19th and 20th-century Galway!
The museum has three floors and seven long-term exhibitions, including The Wild Atlantic – Sea Science, and an exhibition on Pádraic Ó Conaire.
It’s free to visit, although donations are always appreciated.
Stop 7: Spanish Arch and the Long Walk
The Spanish Arch is a must-see Galway attraction, dating back to Medieval times. The large stone arch is located on the outskirts of the city centre, overlooking the Claddagh (shore).
It originally housed soldiers who were keeping watch on the city’s Medieval walls. Its nickname is thought to come from the city’s merchant trade with the Spanish, whose ships would often be docked in the area!
From the Spanish Arch, you can take a short stroll alongside the water to what’s known as The Long Walk. You’ll likely have seen pictures of it (it’s a line of colourful buildings right on the water).
Stop 8: Dinner, drinks and live music
You’ve had a busy aul day today, so it’s time to kick back and chill with food and, if you fancy, a drink and some live music.
Galway is a lively city regardless of the time of year. Here’s some spots worth checking out:
Our dinner recommendations
For dinner, we’ve got a few stellar recommendations: Ard Bia, The Quay Street Kitchen, and Dela. Ard Bia is absolutely fantastic, but you need to book in advance for dinner.
The restaurant has a quirky interior and serves beautifully presented modern dishes.
The Quay Street Kitchen has a great selection of vegan and vegetarian-friendly dishes, and Dela has modern Irish cuisine on the menu.
Live music and trad bars
There’s some mighty pubs in Galway. After dinner, head out for drinks at either Tigh Neachtain or The Crane. Both are traditional pubs with a great atmosphere.
Trad music is an integral part of the city, with heaps of options to choose from. Our favourite spots are Crane Bar (mentioned above) and Tigh Chóilí.
Day 6: Connemara and Cong
It’s day 6 of your 8 days in Ireland itinerary, and today you’ll be exploring the breathtaking Connemara and Cong!
Grab breakfast at your accommodation or head to Gaslight Brasserie, Esquires Organic Coffee Co, or Jungle which are all near the departure point outside of the Hyde Hotel.
This 8-hour organised day trip takes you through Connemara, stopping at popular attractions like Kylemore Abbey
Keep reading below for an overview of the tour, but please note that 1, you may not always physically stop at all of these sights and 2, these tours are subject to change, so always check with the provider in advance.
Stop 1: Kylemore Abbey
Kylemore Abbey is a stunning Benedictine monastery that dates back to the 1920s. It’s incredibly picturesque, sitting on the shores of Pollacapall Lough.
The lower floors of the abbey have been restored and are open to the public, as well as the beautiful Victorian Walled Garden.
The estate includes a Neo-Gothic church and several woodland and lake-side walks.
Stop 2: Killary Fjord and Leenane
Leenane is a beautiful village in an area of outstanding beauty. The village sits at the top of Killary Fjord, tucked away under the Maamturk mountains.
If you’re about ready for a second coffee and a snack, we recommend picking something up at The Purple Door, a lovely family-run cafe.
Killary Fjord is Ireland’s only fjord! It stretches 16km across, forming a natural border between County Galway and Mayo.
It’s a truly breathtaking part of Connemara, with mountains rising up dramatically around the water.
Stop 3: Cong
Cong Abbey, or the Royal Abbey of Cong, is a historical ruin in the heart of Cong. The ruins mostly date back to the 12th century, although it was built on the site of a 6th-century monastery founded by St. Feichin.
The current abbey was reconstructed in 1307 and dedicated to St. Mary. But, sadly it fell into ruin sometime during the mid-1500s, after the dissolution of the monasteries by Henry VIII.
The ruins are in good condition and are said to be one of the best examples of medieval ecclesiastical architecture in the country.
When you visit, try to imagine the 3,000 inhabitants that once lived on the abbey.
Stop 4: An Spideal
An Spideal on the shores of Galway Bay is a gorgeous little seaside village full of rural Irish charm.
There are several beaches in the town that are worth a look if you have time, or if you’d rather do some shopping for souvenirs, head to the Spiddal Craft Village & Cafe for unique gifts made by local artists.
The village is a part of the Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking area), and a large percentage of the population speaks Irish regularly.
Stop 5: Back to Galway for the night
It’s been a long, fun-filled day, but it’s time to head back to Galway City, a roughly 50-minute drive.
Our dinner recommendations
For dinner, we’ve got a few stellar recommendations: Ard Bia, The Quay Street Kitchen, and Dela. Ard Bia is absolutely fantastic, but you need to book in advance for dinner.
The restaurant has a quirky interior and serves beautifully presented modern dishes.
The Quay Street Kitchen has a great selection of vegan and vegetarian-friendly dishes, and Dela has modern Irish cuisine on the menu.
Live music and trad bars
There’s some mighty pubs in Galway. After dinner, head out for drinks at either Tigh Neachtain or The Crane. Both are traditional pubs with a great atmosphere.
Trad music is an integral part of the city, with heaps of options to choose from. Our favourite spots are Crane Bar (mentioned above) and Tigh Chóilí.
Day 7: County Clare
It’s day 7 of your 8 days in Ireland, and today, you’ll be taking a tour of Clare. It’s a wonderful corner of the island, with beautiful landscapes and historical sites.
It’s home to the Burren National Park and the Cliffs of Moher, one of the most popular natural tourist attractions in the country!
We’re recommending this 8-hour day trip from Galway City as it takes in a good chunk of Clare’s main attractions (and it has excellent reviews).
If you fancy a hearty breakfast, we’d recommend Pascal Coffee House (the pancakes are amazing) or Gaslight Brasserie (great for a full Irish or a breakfast burrito).
Keep reading below for an overview of the tour, but please note that 1, you may not always physically stop at all of these sights and 2, these tours are subject to change, so always check with the provider in advance.
Stop 1: Dunguaire Castle
The enchanting Dunguaire Castle sits on the shores of Galway Bay and has an impressive 75-foot tower.
According to legend, if you stand at the front gate and ask a question, you’ll have an answer by the end of the day!
The castle was built in 1520 and belonged to the O’Hynes clan. In 1912, the castle was bought by writer Oliver St. John Gogarty.
During his ownership, he restored the castle and hosted several famous writers, including W.B. Yeats and George Bernard Shaw.
Stop 2: Corcomroe Abbey
Corcomroe Abbey is a late 12th/early 13th-century abbey ruin, tucked away amongst the scenic Burren hills.
The ruins are in great condition and as you pass by, admire its Cistercian architecture set against the backdrop of lush green hills.
Stop 3: The Burren
During the tour, you’ll be driving right through the Burren, a gorgeous landscape characterised by huge limestone plateaus.
The Burren is what is known as a karst landscape, a distinct landform that arises when carbonate rock (such as dolomite, marble, or limestone) is slowly dissolved by water, giving the land its unique shape.
In fact, the Burren is still being shaped by the rain to this day! Karst landscapes have sinkholes, caves, and underground streams, the Burren being no exception, with huge subterranean caverns below its surface.
The Burren is one of the best examples of karst landscapes worldwide, and it has a diverse range of flora and fauna thanks to its varied landscape.
Stop 4: Doolin Pier
You’ll then make a quick stop at Doolin Pier, the main access point to the nearby Aran Islands.
This place tends to be a hive of activity as the two ferry providers shuttle people to and from Inis Mor, Inis Oirr and Inis Meain (you’ll be visiting Inis Mor tomorrow).
Stop 5: Lunch at Hotel Doolin
For lunch, you’ll be heading to Fitz’s Pub and Eatery, which is a part of Hotel Doolin. It’s a cosy traditional pub serving up delicious Irish food.
The Navarin-style Irish lamb stew is a huge hit, as is the sustainable all-white fish chowder. If you’re a beer drinker, make sure to try their in-house Dooliner Beer, a creamy and smooth Irish red ale.
Stop 6: The Cliffs of Moher
Your next stop, the magnificent Cliffs of Moher, are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland.
The cliffs are 15 minutes away from Doolin, with breathtaking views of the wild Atlantic, Galway Bay, and the Aran Islands.
There’s a visitor centre on-site, as well as 800 metres of paved walkways with viewing areas, and the historic O’Brien’s Tower.
Stop 7: Lisdoonvarna
Keep your eyes peeled as you pass through Lisdoonvarna, a spa town renowned for its annual matchmaking festival! The festival began in 1857, and today it attracts over 20,000 visitors from all over the globe.
Lisdoonvarna is relatively new for Irish standards (dating back to the early 19th century), but it’s still full of charm, with colourful shop fronts and traditional houses.
Stop 8: Back to Galway for the night
From Lisdoonvarna, it’s around one hour and 20 minutes back to Galway, so sit back and relax as you may your way back through the lovely countryside.
Our dinner recommendations
For dinner, we’ve got a few stellar recommendations: Ard Bia, The Quay Street Kitchen, and Dela. Ard Bia is absolutely fantastic, but you need to book in advance for dinner.
The restaurant has a quirky interior and serves beautifully presented modern dishes.
The Quay Street Kitchen has a great selection of vegan and vegetarian-friendly dishes, and Dela has modern Irish cuisine on the menu.
Live music and trad bars
There’s some mighty pubs in Galway. After dinner, head out for drinks at either Tigh Neachtain or The Crane. Both are traditional pubs with a great atmosphere.
Trad music is an integral part of the city, with heaps of options to choose from. Our favourite spots are Crane Bar (mentioned above) and Tigh Chóilí.
Day 8: Back to Shannon or Limerick
OK, so your final day is completely dependant on how much time you have left/when you fly out from Shannon.
To get from Galway to Shannon, you need to take an Expressway bus from Galway Bus Station to Shannon Airport.
They should go about once an hour (make sure to check in advance) and it takes just under 2 hours to get to Shannon.
If you are going to stay a little longer in Limerick, don’t forget to check out our accommodation suggestions below.
Recommended accommodation in Limerick
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- Budget: Woodfield House Hotel (15-minute walk from the city with excellent reviews) and Shelbourne House (cosy spot 20 minutes walk from the castle)
- Mid-range: Limerick City Hotel (very central hotel near the river) and The Bedford (very central boutique townhouse with exceptional reviews)
- Luxury: The Savoy Hotel (central, boutique 5-star) and The George (central spot on O’Connell Street in Limerick city centre)
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And that’s a wrap on this road trip
We hope you found the above road trip guide useful. If you have any questions, ask in the comments below and we’ll do our best to help.
Or, if you’d like to browse our other Irish Road Trip itineraries, visit our Road Trip Hub – cheers!
Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.