Ireland 2024
Ireland Travel Itinerary: September 10 - September 19, 2024
Destination: Ireland
Travelers: 3
Budget: $10,250
Accommodation: Hotels and Bed & Breakfasts
Transport: Rental Car (Driving in Ireland)
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Day 1: Arrival in Dublin (September 10, 2024)
Morning:
- Arrive in Dublin and pick up your rental car.
- Check-in at a centrally located hotel (e.g., The Shelbourne Dublin).
Afternoon:
- Explore Dublin Castle and its beautiful gardens.
- Lunch at The Woollen Mills, a local favorite for Irish cuisine.
Evening:
- Attend a Celtic music session at O’Donoghue's Pub to immerse yourself in local culture.
- Dinner at Chapter One, for a fine dining experience.
Accommodation: The Shelbourne Dublin
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Day 2: Dublin City Tour (September 11, 2024)
Morning:
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Visit Trinity College and see the Book of Kells, an ancient illuminated manuscript.
Afternoon:
- Explore the National Museum of Ireland.
- Lunch at Cornucopia, offering a range of local dishes.
Evening:
- Shopping at Grafton Street.
- Dinner at The Vintage Kitchen, known for contemporary Irish cuisine.
Accommodation: The Shelbourne Dublin
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Day 3: Drive to Kilkenny (September 12, 2024)
Morning:
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Drive to Kilkenny (approx. 2-hour drive).
Afternoon:
- Check-in at a charming B&B in Kilkenny (e.g., Butler House).
- Visit Kilkenny Castle and enjoy its lush gardens.
- Lunch at Zuni Restaurant, offering local delicacies.
Evening:
- Wander through The Medieval Mile, exploring Kilkenny’s historical sites.
- Dinner at Ristorante Rinuccini, known for its Italian and Irish fusion cuisine.
Accommodation: Butler House, Kilkenny
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Day 4: Waterford Crystal and Coastal Drive (September 13, 2024)
Morning:
- Breakfast at the B&B.
- Drive to Waterford (approx. 1-hour drive).
Afternoon:
- Tour the Waterford Crystal factory and watch master craftsmen at work.
- Lunch at Momo Restaurant, offering fresh, local ingredients.
- Scenic drive along the Copper Coast, stopping at picturesque beaches and viewpoints.
Evening:
- Return to Kilkenny for dinner at Campagne, a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Accommodation: Butler House, Kilkenny
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Day 5: Journey to Cork (September 14, 2024)
Morning:
- Breakfast at the B&B.
- Drive to Cork (approx. 2-hour drive).
Afternoon:
- Check-in at a waterfront hotel in Cork (e.g., The River Lee).
- Visit the English Market for some local tastes and shopping.
Evening:
- Explore the Cork City Gaol, an intriguing historical site.
- Dinner at Paradiso, regarded for its vegetarian and local produce dishes.
Accommodation: The River Lee, Cork
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Day 6: Cork to Killarney (September 15, 2024)
Morning:
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Drive to Killarney (approx. 1.5-hour drive).
Afternoon:
- Check-in at a countryside B&B in Killarney (e.g., Killeen House Hotel).
- Explore Muckross House and Gardens.
Evening:
- Ride a traditional jaunting car through Killarney National Park.
- Dinner at The Tan Yard, specializing in local cuisine.
Accommodation: Killeen House Hotel, Killarney
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Day 7: Ring of Kerry (September 16, 2024)
Morning:
- Breakfast at the B&B.
- Begin the scenic Ring of Kerry driving tour.
Afternoon:
- Stop at highlights such as Ross Castle, Ladies View, and Torc Waterfall.
- Lunch at The Lobster in Waterville, with stunning sea views and fresh seafood.
Evening:
- Return to Killarney for a relaxing evening.
- Dinner at The Cellar One at The Ross Hotel.
Accommodation: Killeen House Hotel, Killarney
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Day 8: Drive to Galway (September 17, 2024)
Morning:
- Breakfast at the B&B.
- Drive to Galway (approx. 3-hour drive).
Afternoon:
- Check-in at a city-center hotel in Galway (e.g., The House Hotel).
- Explore the Latin Quarter, known for its vibrant streets and shops.
Evening:
- Visit the Galway City Museum for a touch of history.
- Dinner at Ard Bia at Nimmos, located at the Spanish Arch, offering an authentic local dining experience.
Accommodation: The House Hotel, Galway
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Day 9: Connemara and Cliffs of Moher (September 18, 2024)
Morning:
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Drive to Connemara National Park, known for stunning landscapes.
Afternoon:
- Visit Kylemore Abbey, a beautiful castle with Victorian gardens.
- Lunch at Mitchell’s Café at Kylemore Abbey.
Evening:
- Drive to the Cliffs of Moher for breathtaking views and sunset.
- Return to Galway for dinner at Kai Cafe and Restaurant.
Accommodation: The House Hotel, Galway
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Day 10: Departure from Dublin (September 19, 2024)
Morning:
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Drive back to Dublin (approx. 2-hour drive).
Afternoon:
- Return the rental car.
- Last-minute shopping or exploring if time permits.
Evening:
- Departure from Dublin Airport.
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Packing Tips:
- Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers and waterproof jackets.
- Comfortable Shoes: For exploring historical sites, nature, and city tours.
- Travel Adapter: Ireland uses the Type G plug.
- Snacks and Water Bottle: Handy for long drives and day trips.
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This itinerary ensures a balanced experience, blending historical exploration, cultural immersion, natural beauty, modern attractions, and relaxation. Enjoy your memorable trip to Ireland!