7 Day Fly Into Dublin And Leave From Shannon Itinerary

This is a 7 day Dublin to Shannon itinerary for those of you starting in Ireland’s capital and finishing up around Shannon in County Clare.

This guide forms part of my 1 week in Ireland series, where I take you through 7 very different 7 day road trip itineraries. 

Itinerary overview:

• Day 1: Dublin City. Today depends on your arrival time (stay in Dublin)
• Day 2: More of Dublin (Dublin)
• Day 3: Wicklow day trip (Dublin)
• Day 4: Galway City (Galway)
• Day 5: Connemara day trip (Galway)
• Day 6: The Burren and Cliffs of Moher (Doolin)
• Day 7: Depends when you need to leave. Ideally, Kilkee and Loop Head (Doolin)

Arrive in Dublin leave from Shannon itinerary overview

Ideally, you’d have 7 full days for this Dublin to Shannon road trip. Realistically, the first and last days are probably going to be dominated by travel, so we need to factor that in.

1. The main benefits of this route

Most itineraries are built around flying in and out of the same airport. That forces you into a loop, which usually means some backtracking and limits how far you can realistically go.

Flying into one side of Ireland and out of the other removes that constraint. It lets you move in a straight line, see more ground and avoid doubling back on yourself.

2. You need a car

Public transport in Ireland ranges from grand to God-awful. For this trip, you’ll need the convenience of a car. Now, driving in Ireland can be a worry for some, but if you take adequate time to prep, you’ll likely be fine.

If you’re hiring a car, just be aware of the insurance in particular, as it catches most people out (see my tips on hiring a car in Ireland).

Day 1: Dublin City

You’re going to use Dublin as a base for the first three nights. Why 3, you ask?! Well, you’re likely going to be tired when you land in Dublin and won’t want to travel far.

You’re also unlikely to want to move base straight away the following morning. Also, Dublin makes a good base for short but rewarding day trips!

Where to stay in Dublin on nights 1, 2 and 3

• Budget: Abigail’s Hostel (in Temple Bar) or the Generator (15-minute walk to the centre)
• Mid-range: Dublin Skylon (15-minute bus ride from the city), Wren Urban Nest (near Temple Bar) and the Harding Hotel (very central)
• Luxury: The Merrion and the Shelbourne (both on St. Stephen’s Green – very central)

How to get around Dublin

Getting around Dublin is a breeze once you know how. There are 3 useful cards:

• Visitor Leap Card: Offers unlimited travel for 24 hours (€8), 72 hours (€16), or 7 days (€32)
• DoDublin Card: A €49 card providing 48 hours of hop-on/hop-off bus access and 72 hours of public transport
• Dublin Pass: Great way to save money when visiting the main attractions

Consider where’s best to collect your rental car

You have 2 options:

• Collect when you arrive: You can get a car at Dublin Airport. Cons – you won’t need it for the first 2 days and you’ll have to pay for parking. Pros – you’ll have it ready to go for day 3
• Collect from a city centre location: E.g. Hertz have a collection point in the city near Merrion Square. Pros – you don’t waste money having it longer than you need to. Cons – none

Dublin itinerary overview

Day 1 focuses on Dublin City Centre and its headline attractions – ideal if this is your first time in the city.

You’ll enjoy great food, explore several of the top museums in Dublin, and round off the evening in some traditional pubs.

Note: You can easily adjust this itinerary to suit when you arrive into Dublin on day 1, so don’t worry!

1. Trinity College

Start your day at Trinity College, where you’ll find the Book of Kells exhibition. I’d strongly recommend that you book it in advance, as this is one of Dublin’s busiest attractions.

Founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth I, Trinity’s cobbled grounds and grand architecture are worth the stroll alone. The main highlight, however, is The Long Room.

Constructed between 1712 and 1732, this striking library usually holds over 200,000 of Trinity’s oldest books.

At the time of typing, the Old Library is undergoing a major €90m conservation project. 200,000 of its books have been safely stored away but there is a new addition in their place.

2. Temple Bar

From Trinity, it’s an easy 8-minute walk to the Ha’penny Bridge via the busy streets of Temple Bar.

On your left, you’ll pass the old Parliament House – the world’s first purpose-built two-chamber parliament dating to the 1730s, and the seat of the Irish Parliament until 1800.

As you turn into Temple Bar, you’ll pass The Palace Bar, a Victorian-fronted pub from 1823, known for its polished timber exterior and stained-glass windows.

There are plenty of pubs in Temple Bar worth returning to later,  but for now, keep moving.

3. The Ha’penny Bridge

Continue on until you reach the square near The Old Mill restaurant. Turn right here and walk through Merchant’s Arch.

This vaulted gateway sits beneath an 1821 guildhall built for Dublin’s Merchant Guild and remains one of the oldest surviving entrances into the old quarter.

Just beyond it, you’ll reach the Ha’penny Bridge, a cast-iron pedestrian bridge spanning the River Liffey. It was Dublin’s original toll bridge and takes its name from the half-penny fee once charged to cross it.

Related read: Short on time? See my guide to spending 24 hours in Dublin.

4. The GPO Tour

From here, it’s a short 6-minute walk to the GPO. As you cross O’Connell Bridge – the only traffic bridge in Europe wider than it is long – you’ll see the Spire rising ahead, a 120-metre stainless-steel landmark anchoring the northside skyline.

The GPO Witness History Tour is one that I find myself recommending over and over as it offers a detailed look at the events surrounding the 1916 Easter Rising.

Located on historic O’Connell Street, it’s a very worthwhile stop that many tend to miss (it’s especially handy if the weather turns).

5. Lunch at the oldest pub in Dublin

Next, take the 20-minute walk to The Brazen Head – Dublin’s oldest pub. Dating back to the 12th century, stepping inside feels like stepping into another era.

It’s particularly cosy in winter when the fire is lit, and it has welcomed figures such as James Joyce and Brendan Behan.

Grab lunch here and, if you fancy, savour an afternoon pint while you soak up the Brazen Head’s very unique interior.

6. Christ Church Cathedral

A short 7-minute walk brings you to Christ Church Cathedral.

On the way, you’ll pass a section of the old Dublin City Wall on Lamb Alley and the medieval St Audoen’s, Dublin’s oldest parish church still in use.

Christ Church itself was first built in stone in the early 11th century and has been reshaped many times since.

Inside, you’ll find stained glass, exhibitions and a crypt that houses some unusual displays.

7. The Guinness Storehouse

The final stop of the day is the Guinness Storehouse. It’s a 20-minute walk or a short bus ride from Christ Church.

The self-guided experience lasts around 90 minutes and spans seven floors covering brewing history, interactive exhibits and tasting rooms.

It finishes in the Gravity Bar, where you can enjoy a pint overlooking the city.

An evening in Dublin

Day 1 of my Dublin to Shannon itinerary comes to an end early in the evening, and you’ll likely be in need of food and refreshments. Here are a few suggestions:

• Food: Hawksmoor is one of my favourite restaurants in Dublin (great steak and chicken in a magnificent setting)
• Pubs/live music: For live music in Dublin, The Cobblestone is hard to beat. For great Guinness in Dublin, head to Bowes
• Accommodation: If you’ve yet to decide, see the best Dublin hotels

Day 2: More of Dublin

Day 2 of my Dublin to Shannon road trip provides you with a choice of 2 very different itineraries.

The first sees you escape the city and explore the North Dublin coastline. The second sees you tackle more of the city’s top sights.

Option 1: The coast

This option gets you out of the city centre and onto the coast using the DART (train). I go through it in detail in my 2 days in Dublin guide.

It works well if you have already explored central Dublin or want sea air, castle grounds and a proper cliff walk.

• Malahide Castle: 12th-century castle set within large parklands
• Malahide Marina: Relaxed harbour with coastal views
• Malahide to Portmarnock walk: Easy shoreline path beside the sea
• Howth Market: Small food market by the harbour
• Howth Cliff Walk: 6 km coastal loop with views of Ireland’s Eye
• The Abbey Tavern: Traditional pub with food and live music

Option 2: More of the city

This route keeps you in the city centre and focuses on the medieval core, major landmarks and many of Dublin’s top attractions.

It suits first-time visitors or anyone who wants history, architecture and pubs all within walking distance. I go through it in detail in my weekend in Dublin guide.

• Molly Malone Statue: Famous folk figure and quick photo stop
• Dublin Castle: 13th-century complex with Viking and Georgian layers
• Chester Beatty Museum: World-class manuscripts and global art collection
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral: Ireland’s largest cathedral, founded in 1191
• Marsh’s Library: 1707 library with original book cages and reading rooms
• Teeling Distillery: Modern Dublin whiskey distillery with tasting tours

Live music in the capital

Regardless of which of my 2 days in Dublin itineraries you decide to follow, you’ll be heading back into the city that evening.

Now, a warning – the area around Connolly is one of the areas to avoid in Dublin City, so don’t hang around here!

• Food: There are some top-notch restaurants in Dublin. For seafood, SOLE is exceptional
• Ancient pubs: I’ve created a mini Dublin pub crawl that’ll take you to some of the oldest pubs in Dublin
• Live tunes: My guide to Dublin pubs with live music accompanies the map above
• Struggling with where to stay? Here’s a map of the different Dublin neighbourhoods with their pros/cons

Day 3: Wicklow day trip

Day 3 of my 7 day Dublin to Shannon itinerary sees you take a day trip from Dublin out to Wicklow.

Often dubbed the Garden of Ireland, Wicklow is known for its mountain passes, forest trails and long valley views. If you decided not to pick up your car at the airport, you’ll need to get it today!

There are a few walks on the cards today, so bring proper footwear, layers, water and, this being Ireland, something waterproof.

1. Glendalough

Your first stop is the Glendalough Visitor Centre. Allow 20 minutes to explore the exhibitions before heading into the nearby Monastic City.

Founded in the 6th century by St. Kevin, this early Christian settlement grew into one of the most important religious centres in Ireland.

Key ruins include the 33-metre Round Tower, St. Kevin’s Church and the cathedral remains.

2. The Spinc Walk

Next up is the Spinc Walk, a 9.5 km loop that gives you elevated views across Glendalough and its twin lakes.

Now, this is a strenuous walk in places and it’ll take you around 3.5 hours to complete. You can either do it clockwise (the steep section is at the start) or anti-clockwise (more gradual incline and you walk towards the views).

If you don’t fancy a long walk or if your fitness levels/the weather don’t allow, skip forward to the Sally Gap Drive below.

3. Lunch at the Wicklow Heather

After the hike, drive 6 minutes to The Wicklow Heather in Laragh for a well-earned feed.

My Nan and Grandad used to love this place, and I was lucky enough to get to visit on one occasion with my Nan, about 5 years ago.

The interior is cosy, with a large outdoor terrace for warmer days. Expect hearty Irish staples like seafood chowder and cottage pie, alongside vegetarian and vegan options.

4. The Sally Gap Drive

Once refuelled, set off on the Sally Gap Drive, a winding mountain route with open bogland and wide valley views.

Aim for Lough Tay, often referred to as Guinness Lake thanks to its dark waters and pale shoreline. You’ll find several places to pull in and enjoy the views.

You can get to the internet-famous section of Ballinastoe Woods fairly easily from near Lough Tay.

When you’re ready, continue past the well-known PS I Love You bridge before pulling in near Glenmacnass Waterfall for a short ramble and photos.

5. Powerscourt

Around 15 minutes from the end of the Sally Gap route, you’ll reach Powerscourt Waterfall, one of the most popular places to visit in Ireland.

At 121 metres high, it’s the tallest waterfall in the country. The short walk from the car park makes it accessible even after a long day.

A few minutes away, Powerscourt House features 47 acres of landscaped gardens, fountains and woodland trails. There’s also a café onsite if you need coffee before heading back.

6. Back to Dublin for the night

Wrap up day 3 by driving back to Dublin – allow around an hour, depending on traffic.

If you haven’t sorted accommodation yet, here’s a guide on where to stay in Dublin.

Food recommendations

There are some excellent places to eat in Dublin. Two I regularly return to are:

• For steak: Hawksmoor – refined setting, consistently strong cuts, attentive service
• For seafood: SOLE – reliable and well-executed

Live music and trad bars

I’ve covered this in detail in my Dublin pubs guide, but for a quick shortlist: Bowes, Kehoes and Neary’s are all dependable. For live music pubs in Dublin, try the Celt, the Old Storehouse or Darkey Kelly’s.

For those that don’t fancy the pub

If you’d prefer something different, The Irish House Party offers live music, storytelling and a quality meal in a Georgian townhouse setting.

Day 4: Galway City

Your Dublin to Shannon road trip takes to the road on day 4, departing the capital and taking the trip out west.

Now, you have 2 options when it comes to the drive from Dublin to Galway:

• Option 1: The direct run via the M4 and M6 motorways (takes around 2.5 hours)
• Option 2: The more scenic route outlined on my map above (takes around 4.5 hours)

Where to stay in Galway on nights 4 and 5

• Budget: Feeney’s Audubon Lodge (seaside setting outside the city) and Kinlay Hostel (right in the centre)
• Mid-range: The Snug Townhouse (central) and Ash Grove House (beside Galway Cathedral)
• Luxury: The G (city-based) and Glenlo Abbey (15-minute drive outside the city)

1. The Tullamore DEW Distillery

First up on the scenic drive is the Tullamore DEW Distillery. It’s about an hour and 15 minutes from the city centre.

The distillery has been producing one of the best Irish whiskey brands from its home in Offaly since 1829.

Tours walk you through the full process, from distillation to maturation, including a look at the 50,000-cask warehouse. There’s also the option of finishing with an Irish coffee, for those with a designated driver.

2. Athlone Castle and Ireland’s oldest pub

Athlone is one of the most popular stopping points on the Dublin to Galway drive, sitting roughly halfway across the country.

It’s about 1.5 hours from Dublin City and 40 minutes from Tullamore. Two standout stops here:

• Athlone Castle: A 12th-century fortress with an immersive visitor experience
• Sean’s Bar: The oldest pub in Ireland, dating back to 900AD

3. Clonmacnoise

Clonmacnoise is Ireland’s most significant early Christian site, set along the River Shannon.

It’s around 30 minutes from Athlone. Founded in 554 AD by Saint Ciarán, the settlement became a major centre of religion, learning and trade due to its position where the Shannon met the Slighe Mhor, one of medieval Ireland’s great roads.

Today, you can explore the ruins, see the famous Celtic Crosses and examine the round towers. The visitor centre adds useful context.

4. Shannonbridge

About 10 minutes beyond Clonmacnoise, you’ll reach the small riverside village of Shannonbridge.

While there are plenty of attractive villages in Ireland, Shannonbridge is often overlooked.

It takes its name from the bridge linking Offaly and Roscommon. If you’re hungry, Luker’s Bar is a reliable option with views over the water.

5. Explore Galway on foot

Once you land in Galway, drop off your bags and head off into the city (see where to stay in Galway).

The map above outlines my self-guided Galway Walking Tour, which covers the city’s highlights in a straightforward loop.

Expect stops at Galway Cathedral, the Long Walk, the Spanish Arch and Galway City Museum.

6. An evening in Galway

Galway is a mighty city when it comes to food and pubs. I’ve spent a lot of time here over the years – these are the pubs and restaurants I find myself returning to:

• Restaurants in Galway: Ard Bia (exceptionally presented dishes – book in advance) and Dela (modern Irish cuisine at its finest)
• Pubs in Galway: Tigh Neachtain and The Crane are traditional pubs with a great atmosphere. For trad tunes, Tigh Chóilí is hard to beat.

Day 5: A Connemara day trip

So, 1 day is nowhere near enough time to tackle the many things to do in Connemara, however, you only have the day, so it’s important to have a clear plan.

There’s plenty going on today, but I’ve structured the itinerary in a very doable manner, as you can see from the map above.

For those of you doing the Diamond Hill hike, make sure to dress accordingly.

1. Aughnanure Castle

Aughnanure Castle is a 30-minute drive from Galway City and it’s a great first-stop to break-up the drive.

The castle was once a stronghold of the O’Flaherty family, who dominated west Connacht for 300 years.

Built on the shores of Lough Corrib, this six-storey tower house showcases the power of the O’Flahertys, known for their motto “Fortune favours the strong.”

Visitors can explore the remains of a banqueting hall, a watch tower, and a dry harbour. While this isn’t one of the most impressive castles in Galway, it’s well worth a visit.

2. The Quiet Man Bridge

If you’ve ever watched The Quiet Man, the 1952 classic starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara, you might remember the moment Sean Thornton first sets foot in rural Ireland.

That iconic scene was filmed at this now-famous bridge, a 15-minute drive from Aughnanure Castle.

While most of the Quiet Man filming locations are located around Cong in Mayo, this quiet spot in Connemara played a key role. In the scene, Sean hops off a cart, strolls to a stone wall, and takes in the landscape as his mother’s words echo in his mind.

The bridge looks much the same today – sturdy, peaceful, and framed by open hills and sky. Cross to the far side and you’ll see a plaque marking its cinematic moment. Even if you haven’t seen the film, it’s a lovely mini-stop that’s worthy of every Connemara itinerary.

3. The scenic route

You’re going to follow the N59 until you see Peacockes Hotel at Maam Cross – a famous crossroads about 45 minutes from Galway City.

Turn right and join the R336 (here on Google Maps) – this is where the Connemara Loop begins. If you need fuel, there’s a little filling station just to the right after you take the turn.

You’ll follow a narrow road through a dramatic valley, with Corcogemore towering to the left and Lackavrea reflecting in the dark waters of Loughanillaun on the right.

The drive to Leenaun is only around 20 minutes, but it’s packed with wild scenery that’s like something whipped from an oil painting.

4. Leenaun and Killary Fjord

Leenaun sits at the head of Killary, Ireland’s only fjord, where the Maam Valley meets the Atlantic. Surrounded by steep slopes (the Devilsmother to the east, Leenaun Hill to the west), it’s squashed between mountains and water.

Across the fjord, Ben Gorm and Mweelrea rise sharply, often lost in cloud. The village is small but lively in summer, with two pubs, a hotel, cafés, and even a sheep and wool museum.

You’ll pass Gaynor’s Pub (yep, the one from Jim Sheridan’s ‘The Field’) as you enter Leenane – at the junction, take a right and park here for a great view of the surrounding scenery.

Fancy a feed? You can grab coffee and a cake or a bit of lunch at the Killary Cafe across the road!

5. Diamond Hill

Right – for those of you that fancy a hike, head for Connemara National Park, a 20-minute drive away. It’s from the park’s main car park that the brilliant Diamond Hill walk begins.

One of the highlights of this Dublin to Shannon itinerary, it can be tackled via two trails (the Upper Trail is the one with the magnificent views):

• The Upper Trail: 6km long, relatively easy-going and takes around 2 hours
• The Lower Trail: 2.8km long, moderately difficult and takes around 45 minutes

If you don’t fancy the hike, head straight to Kylemore Abbey, do the tour and then grab lunch in Letterfrack (see below).

6. Lunch in Letterfrack

Letterfrack is located right next to the National Park and it makes a great pit-stop for lunch before you head into the second half of the day.

I have a few go-tos in Letterfrack (I’m generally here during the busier seasons, so I usually head to whichever looks least busy):

• Veldons Seafarer: Casual pub grub with fresh seafood and hearty mains
• The Clover Fox: Laid-back bistro-style menu with veggie options and homemade desserts
• The Hungry Hiker: Casual café that’s good for toasties, soups, and baked treats

7. Backtrack to Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey, one of the most popular places to visit in Galway, is a breezy 5-minute drive from Letterfrack.

Built in 1868 by Mitchell Henry, Kylemore Abbey started life as a private castle, fuelled by wealth and heartbreak. It sits on the edge of Pollacapall Lough, with the Twelve Bens rising behind it.

The abbey’s story runs deep, from a tragic love story and political ambition to fleeing nuns and decades of education.

Today, you can walk through restored period rooms, visit the tiny Gothic church, explore six acres of walled gardens, and follow forest trails to the Henrys’ final resting place.

8. The Sky Road and Clifden

The Sky Road is a 16km loop that begins and ends in Clifden, circling the Kingston Peninsula along a dramatic coastal stretch.

You’ll pass Clifden Castle, a 19th-century ruined manor house overlooking the sea.

Partway along, the route splits. The lower road hugs the coastline, while the upper road climbs higher, offering wide views over the Atlantic and surrounding islands.

9. Back to Galway

When you finish up in Clifden, it’s time for the return journey to Galway City via the N59, which takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Along the way, pull in here and you’ll get to stretch the legs and see the famous Pine Island.

It juts out into the inky-black waters of Derry Clare Lough and is framed by the majestic Twelve Bens mountain range.

Finish off day 5 of your Dublin to Shannon road trip by sampling more of Galway City’s evening scene!

Day 6: The Burren and the Cliffs of Moher

Day 6 of this 1 week Dublin to Shannon itinerary takes you away from Galway City and into the heart of the Burren – a vast limestone landscape shaped by glaciers and ancient seas.

You’ll spin along the coast, see castles, caves, cliffs and plenty more. Let’s get cracking!

Where to stay in Doolin on nights 6 and 7

• Central stays: West Haven House (short walk to McDermott’s Pub) and Cullinan’s Guesthouse (opposite Fitzpatrick’s Bar)
• Our favourites: Doolin Inn (steps from Fisher Street), Fiddle + Bow Hotel (boutique feel, very central), and Hotel Doolin (good value and well located)

1. Dunguaire Castle

Dunguaire Castle sits around 35 minutes from Galway and dates to 1520, when it was built by the O’Hynes clan.

In 1912, writer Oliver St. John Gogarty purchased and restored it, later hosting figures such as W.B. Yeats and George Bernard Shaw.

It’s one of the more strikingly positioned castles in Ireland, standing on the edge of Galway Bay.

Local lore claims that if you stand at the front gate and ask a question, you’ll have your answer before the day is out.

2. The Aillwee Cave

Next up is the Aillwee Cave, roughly an hour from Galway. This underground cave system features caverns, stalactites and stalagmites, plus the remains of ancient brown bears discovered during excavation.

The guided tour lasts about 45 minutes and includes an underground waterfall and bridged chasms.

The Burren Birds of Prey Centre is also onsite, with demonstrations featuring owls, hawks and vultures.

3. Poulnabrone Dolmen

Among the best-known landmarks in Ireland, Poulnabrone Dolmen stands out for both age and setting. It’s about 15 minutes from Aillwee.

This portal tomb dates from the Neolithic period, between 4200 BC and 2900 BC.

Excavations in the late 1980s uncovered the remains of around 33 individuals beneath it, along with artefacts. It’s one of the most photographed spots in the Burren National Park.

4. Caherconnell Stone Fort

Caherconnell Stone Fort is up next! This is one of the more impressive ring forts in Ireland and it boasts limestone walls that stand 3 meters high and 3 meters wide.

Over 1,000 years old, it was inhabited until the late 16th century. During many excavations, metalworks, jewellery, glass that originated in Venice were discovered.

You can take a guided tour here where you’ll learn about the history of the area, the discoveries made at the fort and plenty more.

There are also sheepdog demonstrations for those that fancy checking out the stars of a working farm in Ireland.

5. Leamenah Castle Ruins

Leamaneh Castle is located along the final lap of the Burren Scenic Drive and it’s one that you’re best-off admiring as you pass by, as there is nowhere to safely park nearby.

In the photo on the left above from Google Maps you’ll see someone blocking the gate – please don’t do this as the castle is located on private land.

It started its life as a 15th-century tower house and it was then expanded into a lofty mansion during the 17th century.

6. Lisdoonvarna

Lisdoonvarna is the last stop of the Burren Drive (although you could easily extend the drive by following my Clare Road Trip itinerary).

Best known for hosting the famous Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival, this vibrant little town is full of charm and makes for a pleasant stroll.

It’s also a great spot to stop for a bite to eat (the Roadside Tavern dishes up high-quality pub grub!).

7. The Cliffs of Moher

Just 15 minutes from Lisdoonvarna, the Cliffs of Moher rise above the Atlantic and are among Ireland’s most recognisable natural landmarks.

From here, you’ll see sweeping views over Galway Bay and toward the Aran Islands on a clear day.

The site includes a visitor centre, paved walkways stretching roughly 800 metres and O’Brien’s Tower.

Related reads: See my guides driving in Ireland as a tourist, how much to tip in Ireland and the cost of a trip to Ireland

8. Doolin for the night

Take the 10-minute drive back to Doolin and get checked-in to your accommodation. Doolin is a lovely, rural Irish village with some great pubs:

• Restaurants in Doolin: Russell’s Seafood Bar focuses on fresh local catches while McDermott’s Pub does great pub grub
• Pubs in Doolin: The four main pubs are spread out, so you’ll likely end up in whichever is closest to where you’re staying. If you’re in the mood for live music, Gus O’Connor’s on Fisher Street is usually a safe bet.

Day 7: Kilkee and Loop Head

So, day 7 of this itinerary will be entirely dependant on whether or not you have to head home today and, if so, what time your flight is at (the drive from Doolin to Shannon takes around 1 hour, depending on traffic).

Ideally, it’d be a night time flight and you’d have the full day. If that is the case, here’s a great little day to tackle:

• Coffee and a stroll in Lahinch: Grab a coffee from Dodi Cafe before heading for a walk along the sand
• The Kilkee Cliff Walk: Multiple different route lengths depending on what you fancy
• The Bridges of Ross: Natural sea arches carved into the headland
• Loop Head Lighthouse: With views toward the Cliffs of Campoy just beyond the car park

And that wraps up this 7 day Dublin to Shannon itinerary. If you’ve questions, drop them in the comments below and I’ll help you out.

Explore beyond this Dublin to Shannon itinerary

I’d always recommend weighing up different options when it comes do deciding how to spend 1 week in Ireland!

You’ve already seen my Dublin to Shannon itinerary, now here are some other options (you can see each on my map above):

• West of Ireland itinerary
• Southwest of Ireland itinerary
• West Coast of Ireland road trip
• Donegal and Northern Ireland itinerary
• Northern Ireland itinerary