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 and the itinerary below leans on that experience and the many mistakes we made along the way!
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
It’s important that you take a look at the graphic above as each of our road trip itineraries have been tailored to specific needs.
This road trip is specifically for those of you:
- Starting in/near Knock
- Using public transport and organised tours
- Looking to explore at a slow pace
- With a low level of fitness (i.e. it avoids 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. Dublin for 4 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: Sligo Town
It’s day one, and welcome to Ireland! Today, you’re heading up to Sligo Town from Knock Airport, where you’ll be doing some exploring of Ireland’s gorgeous northwest coast. You’ll spend one night in Sligo before making your way to Dublin.
If you haven’t already got somewhere in mind to stay, we’ve made a list of our favourite hotels and B&Bs in Sligo town below!
Our Sligo accommodation recommendations
- Budget: Old Fort B&B (great reviews and a 7-minute spin from town) and Tranquility B&B (solid reviews and a 5-minute drive from town)
- Mid-range: Riverside Hotel (central with great reviews) and Sligo Southern Hotel (10-minute stroll into town and nice and comfy)
- Upper-range: The Glasshouse (right by the river in the town – close to everything) and the Clayton Hotel (5-minute drive to town with swimming pool)
Stop 1: The bus to Sligo
You only have one option at Knock and that is to take the bus. Expressway operates an hourly service between the airport and Sligo Town as does Bus Eireann and Bus Feda.
The journey takes around 1.5 hours.
Stop 2: Sligo Abbey
Once you’ve arrived in Sligo, walk the 13 minutes over to Sligo Abbey. The Dominican friary dates back to the mid-13th century and was founded by Maurice FitzGerald, the founder of Sligo Town.
The abbey ruins are in great condition, considering they survived a fire in 1414, an attack during the ‘Nine Year War’ in 1595, and pillaging during the Rebellion of 1641. Legend has it that during the rebellion, the abbey’s silver bell was salvaged and thrown into nearby Lough Gill. Today, only those “pure of heart” can still hear the peal of the bell through the town…
Despite sustaining heavy damage, the abbey, which is a blend of Norman and Gothic architecture, still has beautiful carvings and monuments. For those interested in literature, the abbey was featured in two of W.B. Yeat’s poems – ‘The Curse of the Fires and of the Shadows’ and ‘The Crucifixion of the Outcast’.
Stop 3: Lunch
Our personal favourite lunch spot in Sligo is Hooked. Their brunch menu has Irish classics like beer-battered fish and chips and international dishes like the 12-Hour Slow Cooked Pork Belly Vietnamese Bahn Mi.
If Hooked doesn’t take your fancy, then we also recommend Lyons Cafe and Bakeshop (delicious home-cooked meals, light bites, and cakes) or Bridgefoot House (incredible open-faced sandwiches made with Irish soda bread).
Stop 4: Yeats building
If you’ve an interest in Irish culture, take the short, 6-minute stroll to the Yeats Building. It’s here that you’ll be immersed in all things drama, history, literature and poetry.
There’s a Yeats exhibition that’ll take you into the mind of one of Ireland’s most famous poets and you can also take a guided tour (advance booking needed).
Stop 5: The Model
Sligo is officially Yeats country, so it’s a great opportunity to learn about and see works by both brothers. The Model is a wonderful contemporary art gallery and centre in the heart of Sligo town.
It’s home to the Niland Collection (named after the librarian who founded the collection in the 1950s, Nora Niland), with over 300 works, including a significant collection of Yeats pieces.
‘A Political Meeting (In the West of Ireland)’, ‘A Sunday Morning in Sligo’, and ‘An Island Man’ are just a few of the J.B. Yeats works in the collection. Each year, the gallery curates six exhibitions from the Niland Collection, with a heavy focus on the works of J.B. Yeats.
Stop 6: Dinner, drinks and live music
It’s time to wrap up your first day, and what a day it was!
Head back to your hotel to freshen up, or go directly from the museum to grab some dinner.
Our Sligo food recommendations
Hopefully, you’re hungry as there’s some excellent restaurants in Sligo.
Head to Hooked for delicious Irish and international food made from local ingredients sourced from Sligo County. Some of our favourite dishes are the Sherlock of Tubbercurry’s prime beef steak sandwich and the buffalo chicken mac’n’cheese, but they also have some delicious vegan and vegetarian dishes.
For seafood and steaks, we love Coachlane. It’s a little on the pricey side, but their certified Irish Angus beef is worth the extra money. If steak isn’t your thing, their seafood platter is incredible, with salmon, scallops, crab claws, cod, monkfish, and shrimp.
Our Sligo pub recommendations
If you’re feeling like after dinner drinks, we suggest hitting up Hargadon Bros (a traditional Irish pub dating back to 1868), Thomas Connolly (a heritage Irish pub and the oldest in Sligo Town), and Shoot the Crows (a cosy and quirky traditional pub with a great pint of Guinness).
For a night of lively trad music, pass by McLynns Bar or Fureys Pub (or both!).
McLynns is in the heart of Sligo town on Old Market Street. The fourth-generation pub has been running since 1889, with live music (Irish folk, acoustic, and bluegrass) every weekend and on mid-week nights. The traditional interior will transport you back in time, with wooden furniture and historical decor.
Fureys Pub on Bridge Street is a cosy old-style pub with a great atmosphere, an open fire (great for those cold winter evenings), and live trad music on weekends and certain weekday nights.
Day 2: The train to Dublin
On your second day in Ireland, you’ll be saying goodbye to Sligo and hopping on a train to Ireland’s lively capital, Dublin! You’ll be spending three nights here as you explore the city and nearby attractions.
Start the day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation. Or if you want to have breakfast out, we recommend Margarets Cafe (a cosy spot with traditional Irish breakfast, french toast, and pancakes) or Lyons Cafe and Bakeshop (hearty cooked breakfasts and artisanal pastries).
We’ve got some recommendations on where to stay in Dublin below, so check them out if you don’t have anywhere in mind already:
Recommended accommodation in Dublin
- Budget: Abigail’s Hostel (Temple Bar), Jacobs Inn (central hostel) and the Generator Hostel (short walk from the city)
- Mid-range: Dublin Skylon Hotel (just outside the city), Wren Urban Nest (Temple Bar) and the Harding Hotel (very central)
- Luxury: The Merrion (St. Stephen’s Green – very central) and The Westin (just off Grafton Street)
Getting around Dublin + money savers
- Time savers: If you want to avoid walking where possible, it’s worth getting a ticket for the Hop On Hop Off Bus around Dublin. It goes to or near all of the main sites on this itinerary plus plenty more.
- Money saver: If you’re visiting the ‘main’ Dublin attractions, the Dublin Pass can save you €€€ (here’s how)
Stop 1: The train from Sligo to Dublin
The best way to get from Sligo to Dublin is by train. There are direct trains from Sligo to Dublin Connolly operating all day long and the trip takes around three hours.
Today, we have you heading to Trinity first, but depending on when you get in, you can head to lunch first and then Trinity, as the lunch spots we have suggested are very close by.
Stop 2: Trinity
Head straight to wherever you’re staying. Check-in and leave the car behind you. The city is very walkable.
When you get to the city, head straight for Trinity College to see the Book of Kells, arguably the most famous cultural attraction in Dublin.
If you can, we highly recommend pre-booking your tickets online, as the queues can get really long (bordering on ridiculous!). This fast-track ticket allows you to dodge the queue and gets you into Dublin Castle, too!
Spend around one hour seeing the Book of Kells, walking around the exhibit, and taking in the beauty of the Old Library. After that, give yourself another 20 minutes or so to walk around the university campus.
Stop 3: Lunch
There’s plenty of great restaurants in Dublin, but for lunch we suggest you head to Neary’s. It’s just up the road from Trinity College, along the bustling Grafton Street.
This old-school pub is a classic and it serves up a range of simple lunch options, like sandwiches, soup, toasties, and Carlingford Oysters, all washed down with a tasty pint of Guinness.
Affordable and delicious, we can’t recommend it highly enough. Sprout and Co on Dawson Street is another good shout for a quick, light lunch that tastes great and is close to Trinity College.
Stop 4: The Ha’penny Bridge (via Temple Bar)
The Ha’penny Bridge is an iconic sight in Dublin and crossing it is a must. From Neary’s, it’s about a ten-minute walk that passes through the vibrant Temple Bar area.
As you pass through Temple Bar, you’ll see why this is the nightlife capital of Dublin, with endless pubs and clubs lining the streets.
The bridge itself is a quaint little footbridge over the River Liffey. In the old days, you’d have to pay a toll of half a penny to cross, hence the name.
If you fancy a coffee after your walk, head to Vice Coffee Inc, just over the bridge for a superb brew. You’ll also find tons of shops and pubs to enjoy on either side of the bridge.
Stop 5: Christ Church Cathedral
Christ Church Cathedral (a 9-minute stroll from the bridge) is another of Dublin’s top attractions and dating back more than 1,000 years, it’s pretty much as old as the city itself!
Steeped in history, it was originally founded by Viking king Sitruic Silkenbeard, but it’s come a long way since those early days (you can grab a ticket online here).
After admiring the stunning architecture from the outside, you can take a self-guided audio tour inside the cathedral.
Along the way, you’ll discover Strongbow’s grave and explore the crypts, which are home to a wealth of artefacts and exhibits, with such treasures as the mummified cat chasing a mummified rat inside an organ pipe.
Listen out for the record-breaking bells of Christ Church, and if you’re really lucky, you might catch the choir in action.
Stop 6: Guinness Storehouse
Next up is another iconic Dublin attraction, the Guinness Storehouse, a 15-minute walk from Christ Church. Dublin is the home of Guinness, and this tour of the brewery is a must for anyone with a love for the black stuff.
In fact, even if you’re not a fan of beer, this is a fantastic attraction to visit. Book your tickets in advance to avoid the queues. You can do a self-guided tour, but the guided-tour is, in our minds, the better option.
Along the way, you’ll hear a number of humorous tales, enjoy some of the brand’s most iconic adverts, and sample the brew at various stages of the process.
To finish, you’ll get a free pint in the fantastic Gravity Bar. Situated on the seventh floor, you’ll enjoy great views over the city as you sink a pint or two.
Stop 7: Dinner, drinks and live music
Stop by your hotel to freshen up before dinner or continue straight on to the restaurant. If you’re not sure of where to eat dinner in Dublin, we’ve got a couple of suggestions below for the evening.
Our Dublin food recommendations
There’s endless excellent restaurants in Dublin. However, if we had to pick one or two…
The first would be The Bull and Castle – it’s always a good choice and it’s right across the street from the Christ Church Cathedral.
An FX Buckley steakhouse (a Dublin institution), they offer a great range of steaks cooked to perfection, paired with their incredible beef dripping chips.
The Vintage Kitchen is an alternative, but it’s best to book in advance as it’s incredibly popular. A BYOB (bring your own bottle) place, the food is phenomenal, with a small but diverse menu that features classic Irish dishes with a contemporary twist.
Our Dublin pub recommendations
There’s certainly no shortage of great pubs in Dublin. If you’re a fan of old-school pubs, follow our Dublin pub crawl guide – it contains a short route with some of the city’s finest trad bars.
McNeils on Capel Street is an authentic Dublin pub, complete with wood panelling, impromptu folk sessions, and plenty of beers on tap.
The Long Hall is another must-see. Part Victorian time capsule, part vibrant boozer, it enjoys a fantastic atmosphere and is one of the most visually stunning pubs in the city.
You’ll find trad sessions at Pipers Corner every night of the week. O’Donoghues Bar on Merrion Row is another must-visit, with vintage decor and frequent trad sessions. It’s best-known as the home of the Dubliners, who used to play here regularly.
The Celt on Talbot Street is another great choice for live music, and while it’s not always trad, the bands are normally really good.
Day 3: Wicklow’s Wonders
On day 3 of your 8 days in Ireland itinerary, and today, you’ll be exploring Wicklow, also known as the Garden of Ireland.
You’ve got a big day ahead of you, so make sure to grab a hearty breakfast before you head off on your bus tour.
The tour leaves near the Molly Malone Statue on Suffolk Street, so if you’d rather eat out, we recommend heading to Keoghs Cafe (just around the corner from the statue) for breakfast and a coffee.
Getting to Wicklow option 1: A guided day trip
This 8-hour day trip includes a fully-guided day tour of Wicklow’s best sights and includes a visit to Powerscourt Gardens (you’ll need to pay into the gardens separately)!
You’ll be driven along the Sally Gap, see iconic film locations used in P.S. I Love You, Brave Heart, and Vikings, and explore an ancient 6th-century settlement.
There are two options for this tour, so make sure to choose the option with the Powerscourt Garden visit as this is the more easy-going choice.
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.
Getting to Wicklow option 2: St. Kevin’s Bus
We definitely think a guided tour is the best way to explore Wicklow without a car, but if you can’t book onto the tour above, we suggest using St. Kevin’s Bus to get to Glendalough.
Take a look here for an in-depth guide. This should really be your Plan B as the guided tour includes the Sally Gap Drive, which is fantastic!
Stop 1: The Sally Gap Drive
OK, this isn’t really a stop. The Sally Gap is a famous crossroad on the Old Military Road through the Wicklow Mountains. The road was built in the early 1800s following the Irish Rebellion of 1798.
It’s a beautiful drive, with spectacular views of the mountains and blanket bog. One of the most notable attractions in this area is Lough Tay (AKA Guinness Lake).
Another is Glenmacnass Waterfall. However, the mountain views and the narrow roads that you drive along are what’ll really make this a corner of Ireland that you won’t forget.
Stop 2: Glendalough Monastic City
The Monastic City was one of the most important monastic sites in this part of the country. The city was founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century and went on to become one of Europe’s most famous religious sites!
Right next to the settlement, there’s a visitor centre where you can enjoy the exhibits and learn more about the site and what made it so important.
After you’re all clued up, walk the 2 minutes to the monastic site and admire the Glendalough Round Tower, Cathedral, and St. Kevin’s Church.
Stop 3: The Lakes at Glendalough
Along the way you’ll be passing by Glendalough Upper Lake and Lower Lake. Carved out by a melting glacier long ago, the upper lake is spectacular, nestled between trees and mountains.
It’s home to St. Kevin’s Bed, a small cave where St. Kevin lived as a hermit for several years before he founded the monastic city.
The lower lake is the smaller of the two, but equal in beauty, with gorgeous views of the mountains and forest.
Stop 4: Powerscourt Gardens
The Powerscourt Gardens are filled with grandeur and were voted by National Geographic as one of the world’s Top Ten Gardens!
The 47-acre Powerscourt Gardens are managed by a team of five gardeners, who tend to the Walled Garden, the Japanese Garden, the Italian Garden, and more.
The grounds are filled with ornamental lakes, formal gardens, and statues, making them perfect for a leisurely stroll!
Stop 5: Back to Dublin for the night
After a long day of sightseeing, you’ll be heading back to the city. Nip into your hotel to freshen up before dinner, or if you’re not fussed, head out for something to eat as soon as you get back.
Our Dublin food recommendations
There’s endless excellent restaurants in Dublin. However, if we had to pick one or two…
The first would be The Bull and Castle – it’s always a good choice and it’s right across the street from the Christ Church Cathedral.
An FX Buckley steakhouse (a Dublin institution), they offer a great range of steaks cooked to perfection, paired with their incredible beef dripping chips.
The Vintage Kitchen is an alternative, but it’s best to book in advance as it’s incredibly popular. A BYOB (bring your own bottle) place, the food is phenomenal, with a small but diverse menu that features classic Irish dishes with a contemporary twist.
Our Dublin pub recommendations
There’s certainly no shortage of great pubs in Dublin. If you’re a fan of old-school pubs, follow our Dublin pub crawl guide – it contains a short route with some of the city’s finest trad bars.
McNeils on Capel Street is an authentic Dublin pub, complete with wood panelling, impromptu folk sessions, and plenty of beers on tap.
The Long Hall is another must-see. Part Victorian time capsule, part vibrant boozer, it enjoys a fantastic atmosphere and is one of the most visually stunning pubs in the city.
You’ll find trad sessions at Pipers Corner every night of the week. O’Donoghues Bar on Merrion Row is another must-visit, with vintage decor and frequent trad sessions. It’s best-known as the home of the Dubliners, who used to play here regularly.
The Celt on Talbot Street is another great choice for live music, and while it’s not always trad, the bands are normally really good.
Day 4: Mighty Meath and Louth
On day 4 of the 8 days in Ireland itinerary, you’ll be heading out to County Meath, known for its archaeological sites.
It’s another jam-packed day, so make sure to have a hearty breakfast and to pack some snacks in case you get peckish on the road.
Today’s 10-hour organised day trip leaves from the same spot, near the Molly Malone statue. There aren’t too many breakfast options open this early, so once again, we recommend Keoghs Cafe as they open at 6am.
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: Hill of Uisneach
The Hill of Uisneach is an ancient ceremonial site that’s home to numerous monuments and earthen artefacts.
It’s an interesting spot that’s steeped in folklore, and according to Irish mythology, the hill is the centre of Ireland and where everything began!
At the site, you’ll find a conjoined ringfort, arguably the most important monument on the hill, a monument known as St Patrick’s Bed (stood at the highest point on the hill), and the Stone of the Divisions, a group of stones said to mark the exact centre of Ireland.
Stop 2: Fore Abbey
Fore Abbey is the ruin of a Benedictine Abbey founded by St. Feichin in the 7th century. The ruins are in good condition with several features that are still visible to this day, including St. Feichin’s Church which was built in 900 AD.
The abbey is known for its legendary “Seven Wonders of Fore”. These are the monastery in the bog; the water that flows uphill; the tree that has three branches; the mill without a race; the water that doesn’t boil (in St. Fechin’s holy well); the anchorite in a cell; and the lintel-stone raised by St. Fechin’s prayers.
Aside from the wonders, Fore Abbey is also well known for the Fore Crosses, 18 crosses that are spread out over 10km.
Stop 3: Loughcrew Passage Tombs
The Loughcrew Passage Tombs, or Loughcrew Cairns, are a group of neolithic passage tombs that date back to 3000 BC.
Cairn T is the largest of the tombs and can be seen from many miles away. It contains magnificent examples of neolithic art and is perfectly aligned to the sunrise during the spring and autumn equinoxes.
Like Fore Abbey, this site is also entangled in folklore. According to local legend. The huge throne-like boulder (nicknamed the Hag’s Chair) on the Cairn’s north side, was the seat of an old witch!
Please note that the walk up to the cairns is very steep and may prove difficult for those with low levels of fitness.
Stop 4: Trim Castle
Trim Castle is Ireland’s largest Anglo-Norman fortification. It’s very impressive with an imposing presence that’ll catch your eye from afar as you approach the town.
The Castle dates back to the 12th century and took Hugh de Lacy and his successors 30 years to complete.
The tour of Trim Castle is well worth it, especially for any Braveheart fans, as parts of the movie were filmed there!
If you have time, take the stroll out to the large tower ruins on the hill past the castle (you can’t miss them). You’ll get a great view of the castle from afar from this point.
Stop 5: The Hill of Tara
The Hill of Tara has been in use since the late Stone Age, but it’s known best as the seat of the High Kings of Ireland, with all old Irish roads leading to the site!
The site is shrouded in myth, and the story of Conn of the Hundred Battles tells the tale of how the High Kings of Ireland came to be.
It’s free to visit, with a free 25-minute Audio Visual Show at the visitor centre (in the church), and free guided tours scheduled every day.
Stop 6: Back to Dublin for the night
From the Hill of Tara, it’s a 50-minute drive back to Dublin City Centre (depending on traffic).
Our Dublin food recommendations
There’s endless excellent restaurants in Dublin. However, if we had to pick one or two…
The first would be The Bull and Castle – it’s always a good choice and it’s right across the street from the Christ Church Cathedral.
An FX Buckley steakhouse (a Dublin institution), they offer a great range of steaks cooked to perfection, paired with their incredible beef dripping chips.
The Vintage Kitchen is an alternative, but it’s best to book in advance as it’s incredibly popular. A BYOB (bring your own bottle) place, the food is phenomenal, with a small but diverse menu that features classic Irish dishes with a contemporary twist.
Our Dublin pub recommendations
There’s certainly no shortage of great pubs in Dublin. If you’re a fan of old-school pubs, follow our Dublin pub crawl guide – it contains a short route with some of the city’s finest trad bars.
McNeils on Capel Street is an authentic Dublin pub, complete with wood panelling, impromptu folk sessions, and plenty of beers on tap.
The Long Hall is another must-see. Part Victorian time capsule, part vibrant boozer, it enjoys a fantastic atmosphere and is one of the most visually stunning pubs in the city.
You’ll find trad sessions at Pipers Corner every night of the week. O’Donoghues Bar on Merrion Row is another must-visit, with vintage decor and frequent trad sessions. It’s best-known as the home of the Dubliners, who used to play here regularly.
The Celt on Talbot Street is another great choice for live music, and while it’s not always trad, the bands are normally really good.
Day 5: The trip to Galway
Today we are heading to Galway, where we will spend three nights before you head back home.
Before you head off on your trip, grab a hearty breakfast from where you’re staying, or venture out into the city for some grub.
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)
Today you are taking the train from Dublin to Galway, below is an overview of that trip
Stop 1: Heuston Station
The train to Galway departs from Heuston, you can take a taxi here, walk or take the Luas Red line, which has a stop right out front. The trip to Galway takes about 2.5 hours.
There are shops inside the station where you can grab snacks for the train and breakfast. We recommend buying food for the train instead of waiting to buy something on the train.
Stop 2: Galway Ceannt Station
Welcome to Galway! The train station is located in the centre of Galway so, depending on your accommodation, you shouldn’t have to walk too far.
From here, we recommend you go drop off your bags before setting off to explore the city.
Stop 3: Check-in, get lunch and decide between walking or 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 4: 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 5: 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 6: 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 7: 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 8: 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 9: Galway City for the night
Galway is a lively city regardless of the time of year. Here’s some spots worth checking out:
Our dinner recommendations
There’s some excellent restaurants in Galway – our favourites are 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
After a long day, it’s time to make your way back to Galway. Make a stop at your hotel to freshen up for dinner, or if you’re simply too hungry, head straight to the restaurant from the bus stop!
Our dinner recommendations
There’s some excellent restaurants in Galway – our favourites are 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: The Clare coast
It’s the penultimate day of your 8 days in Ireland, and today, you’ll be taking a tour of North Clare. It’s a wonderful corner of the country, 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
There’s some excellent restaurants in Galway – our favourites are 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: The Bus back to Knock Airport
Unfortunately, all good things come to an end, and today, you’ll be heading to Knock to catch a plane back home.
Grab some breakfast at your accommodation or nearby, and then head on out to the bus station.
You only have one option to get to knock and that’s to take a bus. There are two options
- Option 1: Bus Eireann (takes about 1.5 hours)
- Option 2: Bus Feda (takes about an hour but it only operates twice a day)
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.