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Hike dramatic sea cliffs, cycle along wild Atlantic bays, explore misty national parks, and chase spring blooms from Ireland's rugged northwest to its vibrant capital.

Hike dramatic sea cliffs, cycle along wild Atlantic bays, explore misty national parks, and chase spring blooms from Ireland's rugged northwest to its vibrant capital.
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
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I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Ireland, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.

Park at the official trailhead off R263 and hike the cliff path to the viewing platforms. Arrive before 10am to beat tour buses and get clear views without crowds. The path is well maintained but can be windy and narrow near the edges.

Park at the official trailhead off R263 and hike the cliff path to the viewing platforms. Arrive before 10am to beat tour buses and get clear views without crowds. The path is well maintained but can be windy and narrow near the edges.

Drive southwest from Slieve League on the R263 then R261 to reach this open air museum near Glen Bay. Walk through the thatched cottages and ask staff about the local weaving demonstrations. Allow 90 minutes to explore all four restored houses.

Drive southwest from Slieve League on the R263 then R261 to reach this open air museum near Glen Bay. Walk through the thatched cottages and ask staff about the local weaving demonstrations. Allow 90 minutes to explore all four restored houses.

Head northeast on the R252 toward the Barnesmore Gap area. Park near Lough Eske and follow the marked walking trails along the southern edge of the range. Search for 'Barnesmore Gap scenic viewpoint' on Google Maps for the best valley panoramas.

Head northeast on the R252 toward the Barnesmore Gap area. Park near Lough Eske and follow the marked walking trails along the southern edge of the range. Search for 'Barnesmore Gap scenic viewpoint' on Google Maps for the best valley panoramas.
~2 hours
Head into Donegal Town and find a pub along The Diamond or Bridge Street serving dinner from 5pm. Order a pint of Guinness and try a bowl of seafood chowder or lamb stew. Most pubs have live traditional music starting around 9pm.
Enjoy an evening filled with rich flavors and lively atmosphere where you'll typically savor hearty meals and traditional drinks. Local guides often share stories about the history and culture behind each dish and drink, adding depth to the experience. The warm, convivial setting encourages socializing with locals and fellow travelers, making it an engaging way to dive into the local heritage and hospitality.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Grab coffee and pastries at any café along Main Street in Killybegs on your way to the cliffs. Ask for Irish Breakfast Tea and a slice of Barmbrack, a fruit tea bread often served toasted with butter.
BarmbrackWalkable to evening pubs and close to the R263 route for Day 2 heading north along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Walkable to evening pubs and close to the R263 route for Day 2 heading north along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Arrive early and hike the Glenveagh Nature Trail from the visitor center, a 5 km loop through rhododendron tunnels with views of Lough Veagh and the Derryveagh Mountains. Keep an eye out for red deer roaming the hillsides.

Arrive early and hike the Glenveagh Nature Trail from the visitor center, a 5 km loop through rhododendron tunnels with views of Lough Veagh and the Derryveagh Mountains. Keep an eye out for red deer roaming the hillsides.
~2 hours
Tour the interior of the 19th century castle and then walk the Victorian walled gardens and subtropical plantings below the castle terraces. The gardens are a short stroll from the main castle entrance.

Park at the designated car park off the R251 near Dunlewy and hike the stony slope to the summit of Donegals highest peak. The quartzite scree is loose so wear sturdy boots and expect strong winds near the top.

Park at the designated car park off the R251 near Dunlewy and hike the stony slope to the summit of Donegals highest peak. The quartzite scree is loose so wear sturdy boots and expect strong winds near the top.

Walk through the restored 15th century castle in the center of Donegal Town, with guided tours of the great hall and period furnishings. It is located right on The Diamond, Donegals main square.

Walk through the restored 15th century castle in the center of Donegal Town, with guided tours of the great hall and period furnishings. It is located right on The Diamond, Donegals main square.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Find a café near the Donegal Town diamond and order a full Irish breakfast with sausage, bacon, black pudding, fried egg, and soda bread. Add a pot of Barry's Tea to warm up before the drive north.
Barry's Tea
Pack a picnic from the Glenveagh visitor center shop or grab a filled soda bread sandwich and a slice of Irish Apple Cake from the tearoom before heading up Mount Errigal. Eat on a bench overlooking Lough Veagh.
Irish Apple Cake
Find a pub in Donegal Town and order a hearty bowl of seafood chowder packed with local salmon, mussels, and smoked haddock, served with brown bread. Pair it with a pint of Guinness on the side.
Seafood ChowderKeeps you within walking distance of Donegal Castle, pubs, and the bus depot for easy access to the town.
Keeps you within walking distance of Donegal Castle, pubs, and the bus depot for easy access to the town.

Drive to Ireland's northernmost point. Walk the cliff path to the iconic EIRE sign and the stone tower at Banba's Crown. Search for Malin Head car park near the signal tower.

Drive to Ireland's northernmost point. Walk the cliff path to the iconic EIRE sign and the stone tower at Banba's Crown. Search for Malin Head car park near the signal tower.

Park at the Horn Head viewpoint car park and follow the coastal loop trail above the sea cliffs. Look for seabird colonies and panoramic views back over Sheephaven Bay and the Rosguill Peninsula.

Park at the Horn Head viewpoint car park and follow the coastal loop trail above the sea cliffs. Look for seabird colonies and panoramic views back over Sheephaven Bay and the Rosguill Peninsula.

Visit the working lighthouse on the Fanad Peninsula. Climb the tower for views across Lough Swilly and Mulroy Bay. Search for Fanad Head Lighthouse parking area near the entrance.

Visit the working lighthouse on the Fanad Peninsula. Climb the tower for views across Lough Swilly and Mulroy Bay. Search for Fanad Head Lighthouse parking area near the entrance.
~3 hours
Drive from Fanad Head to Westport. Route via Letterkenny and then the N17/N5 will take roughly 3 hours depending on traffic. Refuel and grab snacks in Letterkenny before the longer stretch.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Find a café in Carndonagh or Buncrana and order a full Irish breakfast with local Donegal Black Pudding and a mug of Barry's Tea.
Donegal Black Pudding
Grab a quick lunch at a pub near Fanad Head or along the N56. Order a bowl of seafood chowder with brown soda bread to keep warm on a coastal day.
Seafood Chowder
Find a traditional pub on Bridge Street or The Octagon in Westport town centre and order Irish Stew made with Kerry lamb, served with mashed potatoes.
Irish StewArriving from Donegal in the evening, staying in town means you can park the car, walk to dinner, and explore Westport's streets in the morning.
Arriving from Donegal in the evening, staying in town means you can park the car, walk to dinner, and explore Westport's streets in the morning.
Drive from Fanad Head to Westport via Letterkenny and the N17/N5. The route is scenic but winding in parts. Book accommodation in Westport town centre to avoid driving after arrival.
~4 hours
Start early from the Murrisk car park at the base. The trail is steep and rocky, so bring sturdy boots, water, and layers. The summit rewards with sweeping views of Clew Bay and its drumlin islands on clear days.
~3 hours
Join a guided tour launching from Westport Quay or Rosmoney pier. Paddle around the islands and spot seals. Book ahead online as tours fill up in spring.
~1.5 hours
Walk the boardwalk along the quay and watch fishing boats come in. Stop by the old grain store and the stone cottages near the water's edge for photos.
~1.5 hours
Walk along the tree-lined Mall beside the Carrowbeg River, then explore Bridge Street and the Octagon. These streets have colorful pubs and live traditional music most evenings.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Find a pub on the Octagon and order a pint of Guinness with classic Irish stew made from lamb and root vegetables.
Irish StewStay central so you can walk to the quay, pubs, and restaurants after a long day hiking and paddling.
Stay central so you can walk to the quay, pubs, and restaurants after a long day hiking and paddling.
~4 hours
Rent a bike in Westport town center or at the Newport trailhead and cycle the 42km off-road path along the old railway line. The section from Newport to Achill Island (or as far as Mulranny) offers stunning views of Clew Bay and the Nephin Beg mountains.

Visit the historic estate just south of Westport town with terraced gardens, a lake, and woodland walks. The grounds offer lovely views over Clew Bay, and the house itself has guided tours of its Georgian interiors.

Visit the historic estate just south of Westport town with terraced gardens, a lake, and woodland walks. The grounds offer lovely views over Clew Bay, and the house itself has guided tours of its Georgian interiors.
~1.5 hours
Walk back into Westport town for a quick dinner before catching the bus or driving to Galway. The journey takes about 1.5 hours via the N84, with scenic views through Cong and the Maam Valley.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Find a café on Bridge Street in Westport and order a full Irish breakfast with sausage, bacon, eggs, and soda bread alongside a pot of Barry's Tea.
Barry's TeaClose to the Greenway start point and pubs for easy access after a day of cycling.
Close to the Greenway start point and pubs for easy access after a day of cycling.
Bus Eireann route 52 or 456 runs from Westport to Galway multiple times daily. Book online at buseireann.ie for the best fare (around $15).

Walk the 2km seaside promenade from Galway city center toward Salthill. Look for the Blackrock Diving Tower at the far end as your natural turnaround point. Great views across Galway Bay to the Aran Islands on a clear day.

Walk the 2km seaside promenade from Galway city center toward Salthill. Look for the Blackrock Diving Tower at the far end as your natural turnaround point. Great views across Galway Bay to the Aran Islands on a clear day.

At the western end of Salthill Promenade, this iconic stone tower juts into the bay. Snap a photo and watch locals jump off on warmer days. Continue along the promenade or grab a bench to enjoy the sea air.

At the western end of Salthill Promenade, this iconic stone tower juts into the bay. Snap a photo and watch locals jump off on warmer days. Continue along the promenade or grab a bench to enjoy the sea air.

Located near the Claddagh neighborhood along the River Corrib, this 16th-century stone arch is a quick stop for photos and history. It sits right by the water with views of the Claddagh fishing village and the bay beyond.

Located near the Claddagh neighborhood along the River Corrib, this 16th-century stone arch is a quick stop for photos and history. It sits right by the water with views of the Claddagh fishing village and the bay beyond.

Free admission museum adjacent to the Spanish Arch. Explore exhibits on Galway's history, archaeology, and the famous Claddagh ring. Allow 1-1.5 hours to see the main galleries without rushing.

Free admission museum adjacent to the Spanish Arch. Explore exhibits on Galway's history, archaeology, and the famous Claddagh ring. Allow 1-1.5 hours to see the main galleries without rushing.
~2.5 hours
Head to the Latin Quarter around Shop Street and Quay Street, where nearly every pub hosts live traditional music sessions starting around 8pm. Find a pub with a session in progress, grab a spot near the musicians, and order a pint of Guinness with dinner.
Enjoy an evening filled with lively melodies and the rich sounds of traditional tunes while savoring a hearty meal infused with local flavors. You'll typically experience passionate musicians playing with vibrant energy that brings the culture to life, and many gatherings offer an intimate, communal atmosphere where sharing stories and laughter is part of the fun. Galway, known for its deep musical roots and welcoming spirit, provides an authentic setting that enhances the warmth and excitement of the experience.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Grab a quick breakfast at any cafe near Shop Street and order a pot of Barry's Tea with a slice of warm soda bread slathered with butter and jam.
Soda Bread with Jam and Cream
Find a casual spot along the Latin Quarter and order a bowl of seafood chowder with brown bread, packed with local fish and shellfish from Galway Bay.
Seafood Chowder
Look for a traditional pub with live music near Quay Street and order a hearty Irish stew with lamb and root vegetables, paired with a pint of Guinness while the band plays.
Irish StewWalkable to all of today's activities and surrounded by pubs with live traditional music each evening.
Walkable to all of today's activities and surrounded by pubs with live traditional music each evening.

Walk the marked trails through this 1,000-acre woodland and nature reserve owned by the Irish National Trust. The 1.5km Autograph Tree loop is the most rewarding path, passing beech and copper beech trees signed by WB Yeats, George Bernard Shaw, and other literary figures. Entry is free and the visitor center opens at 10am.

Walk the marked trails through this 1,000-acre woodland and nature reserve owned by the Irish National Trust. The 1.5km Autograph Tree loop is the most rewarding path, passing beech and copper beech trees signed by WB Yeats, George Bernard Shaw, and other literary figures. Entry is free and the visitor center opens at 10am.
~1.5 hours
Drive or take a bus to the Black Head Loop viewpoint on the southern edge of Galway Bay for panoramic views of the Burren karst landscape meeting the Atlantic. The best photo light is between 2pm and 4pm. Look for the official Wild Atlantic Way signpost marker.
~2 hours
Wander the pedestrian streets between Shop Street, High Street, and Quay Street where buskers perform outside traditional pubs. Browse the market stalls at the weekend if applicable and step into a pub for live traditional Irish music.
~2 hours
Join the Galway Free Walking Tour which departs daily at 5pm from the Browne Doorway at Eyre Square (look for the guide in a yellow jacket). The 90-minute route covers the city walls, the Claddagh, and Spanish Arch with historical stories included. Tips are appreciated at the end.
Explore charming streets and vibrant local culture as you walk through historic neighborhoods. You'll typically learn about rich history, folklore, and landmarks from local guides who share engaging stories and insights. The lively atmosphere and scenic views make it an enjoyable way to connect with the city's unique character.
Book FREE walking tourMeals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Grab a quick lunch at a food stall or cafe near the Latin Quarter and try a bowl of Seafood Chowder served with brown soda bread.
Seafood Chowder
Look for a pub in the Latin Quarter serving traditional Boxty potato pancakes filled with smoked salmon or beef and topped with sour cream.
BoxtyStaying here puts you steps from the walking tour meeting point, all pubs, and the morning market.
Staying here puts you steps from the walking tour meeting point, all pubs, and the morning market.
Book an Irish Rail train from Galway Ceannt Station to Killarney, which runs 3-4 times daily and costs around $25-40 one way. Trains connect via Limerick Junction and arrive at Killarney town center, a short walk from most accommodations.

Enter via the Muckross House car park and follow the Old Weir Bridge trail for a scenic loop through oak woodlands and along the River Laune. Look for signs to the Meeting of the Waters for the best photo spot.

Enter via the Muckross House car park and follow the Old Weir Bridge trail for a scenic loop through oak woodlands and along the River Laune. Look for signs to the Meeting of the Waters for the best photo spot.

Park at the Torc Waterfall car park on the N71 and take the short paved path to the base of the 20 meter cascade. For a better view, continue up the stone steps to the middle bridge where the spray often creates rainbows on sunny afternoons.

Park at the Torc Waterfall car park on the N71 and take the short paved path to the base of the 20 meter cascade. For a better view, continue up the stone steps to the middle bridge where the spray often creates rainbows on sunny afternoons.

Pull into the designated layby on the N71 about 8 km south of Killarney town. Walk the short gravel path to the stone viewpoint overlooking the three lakes of Killarney with the MacGillycuddy's Reeks range behind you.

Pull into the designated layby on the N71 about 8 km south of Killarney town. Walk the short gravel path to the stone viewpoint overlooking the three lakes of Killarney with the MacGillycuddy's Reeks range behind you.
~2.5 hours
Head to Courtneys Bar on 27 Plunkett Street in Killarney town center where live trad sessions run from around 9 pm most nights. Grab a spot near the fireplace early as the small back room fills up fast with locals and visitors alike.
Enjoy immersing yourself in lively traditional music where you'll typically gather with locals and fellow travelers to share spirited tunes and heartfelt songs. Most sessions include a mix of instruments like fiddles, tin whistles, and bodhráns, creating an inviting atmosphere of cultural exchange and joy. The setting often fosters a warm sense of community, enhanced by the rich musical heritage unique to the region.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Find a cafe on New Street in Killarney town and order a full Irish breakfast with sausages, bacon, black pudding, eggs, and soda bread on the side.
Irish Soda Bread
Look for a pub on College Street serving Kerry lamb stew, a slow cooked local specialty with tender lamb, potatoes, carrots, and herbs in a rich broth.
Irish Stew (Kerry Lamb Stew)All of today's activities start within a short drive of town and you can walk to evening music sessions without needing a car.
All of today's activities start within a short drive of town and you can walk to evening music sessions without needing a car.

Start at Kate Kearney's Cottage and hike through the glacial valley following the road past the five lakes. Expect steep sections and sheep on the path. For a shorter route hire a Jaunting Car at the entrance gate for a ride partway up.

Start at Kate Kearney's Cottage and hike through the glacial valley following the road past the five lakes. Expect steep sections and sheep on the path. For a shorter route hire a Jaunting Car at the entrance gate for a ride partway up.

15th century tower house on the edge of Lough Leane. Join the guided tour to see the furnished interior and defensive features. Walk the lakeshore path behind the castle for the best photo angle.

15th century tower house on the edge of Lough Leane. Join the guided tour to see the furnished interior and defensive features. Walk the lakeshore path behind the castle for the best photo angle.

Victorian mansion set within Killarney National Park. Walk the ground floor rooms and the sunken garden then follow the path to the working farmyard and traditional craft demonstrations. Allow extra time for the arboretum.

Victorian mansion set within Killarney National Park. Walk the ground floor rooms and the sunken garden then follow the path to the working farmyard and traditional craft demonstrations. Allow extra time for the arboretum.
~4 hours
Drive or take the train from Killarney to Dublin. The M7 motorway route takes about 3 hours by car. The train from Killarney station runs several times daily and takes 3 hours 15 minutes arriving at Heuston Station.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Find a cafe on Killarney's Main Street and order the Irish Breakfast Tea with a slice of Barmbrack, a sweet fruit loaf with raisins that is traditionally served toasted with butter.
Barmbrack
Grab a casual lunch at a pub near Ross Castle and order a bowl of Kerry Lamb Stew, a hearty one-pot meal with tender lamb, potatoes, carrots, and fresh herbs cooked slowly.
Irish Stew (Kerry Lamb Stew)Central location gives walking access to Day 10's Dublin sights and the airport bus stop is a short walk away.
Central location gives walking access to Day 10's Dublin sights and the airport bus stop is a short walk away.
Book Irish Rail tickets from Killarney to Dublin Heuston in advance on irishrail.ie for the best fares, typically 25-45 EUR. Direct trains run at least 6 times daily. Alternatively drive the M7/M8 motorway route in about 3 hours.

Rent a bike from the Phoenix Park Bike Hire kiosk near the Parkgate Street entrance. Cycle the 11km loop past the Papal Cross, Dublin Zoo entrance, and stop at Phoenix Monument. Keep an eye out for the wild fallow deer herd that roams the park meadows.

Rent a bike from the Phoenix Park Bike Hire kiosk near the Parkgate Street entrance. Cycle the 11km loop past the Papal Cross, Dublin Zoo entrance, and stop at Phoenix Monument. Keep an eye out for the wild fallow deer herd that roams the park meadows.

Enter through the main gate on College Green and head straight to the Old Library. Book your Book of Kells time slot online in advance to skip the queue. After viewing the illuminated manuscript, walk through the Long Room with its 200,000 oldest books.

Enter through the main gate on College Green and head straight to the Old Library. Book your Book of Kells time slot online in advance to skip the queue. After viewing the illuminated manuscript, walk through the Long Room with its 200,000 oldest books.

Walk from Trinity down Dame Street to the castle. Tour the State Apartments and the Undercroft with its Viking remains. The Record Tower is the original medieval tower and offers good views of the site.

Walk from Trinity down Dame Street to the castle. Tour the State Apartments and the Undercroft with its Viking remains. The Record Tower is the original medieval tower and offers good views of the site.
~3 hours
Head to the Temple Bar area but walk a few streets off the main strip. Search for pubs like The Cobblestone in Smithfield or O'Donoghue's on Merrion Row for genuine trad sessions that start around 9pm. Order a pint of Guinness and listen to fiddle, flute and bodhrán players.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Find any neighborhood cafe near St Stephen's Green and order a full Irish breakfast with sausages, bacon, eggs, black pudding, toast and a pot of Barry's Tea.
Barry's Tea
Grab a casual lunch at a cafe near Grafton Street and try a bowl of Irish stew made with Kerry lamb, potatoes, carrots and herbs.
Irish Stew
Find a gastropub in the Dame Street or South William Street area and order a classic boxty filled with smoked salmon and cream cheese, served with a side salad.
BoxtyEverything on today's itinerary is within a 20 minute walk or a short Luas ride from central Dublin.
Everything on today's itinerary is within a 20 minute walk or a short Luas ride from central Dublin.

Book tickets online in advance as slots fill up quickly. The guided tour lasts about 1.5 hours and covers the 1916 Rising and Irish independence history.

Book tickets online in advance as slots fill up quickly. The guided tour lasts about 1.5 hours and covers the 1916 Rising and Irish independence history.

Ireland's largest cathedral is a short bus or taxi ride from Kilmainham. Entry includes an audio guide; allow time to walk the surrounding gardens.

Ireland's largest cathedral is a short bus or taxi ride from Kilmainham. Entry includes an audio guide; allow time to walk the surrounding gardens.

Walk from the cathedral up to Grafton Street via Dame Street. Explore the pedestrian-only lanes, street musicians, and the St. Stephen's Green park entrance at the top.

Walk from the cathedral up to Grafton Street via Dame Street. Explore the pedestrian-only lanes, street musicians, and the St. Stephen's Green park entrance at the top.
~2 hours
Head to Dublin Airport via Aircoach bus (30-40 min) or taxi (about 30 min, roughly 20 EUR). Allow 2 hours before your flight for check-in and security.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine

Look for a pub near St. Patrick's Cathedral and order a bowl of seafood chowder with brown bread. It is a creamy broth loaded with fresh fish and shellfish.
Seafood ChowderClose to all morning sights and easy airport bus access from O'Connell Street.
Close to all morning sights and easy airport bus access from O'Connell Street.
Get your trip plan as a PDF with maps and a CSV spreadsheet.
Backpacker/mid-range budget for an active traveler in Ireland. Accommodation based on $50/night hotels or hostels. Food: $15 restaurant meal + $8 street food/coverage. Transport: mix of Bus Eireann buses and occasional taxi (FreeNow/Uber). Activities: covers hiking trail access, national park entry, bike rentals, and water sports gear.
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