Are you looking for an Ireland itinerary 7 days with the family? If so, you’ve come to the right place.
Ireland is an ideal spot for an unforgettable vacation with something to engage everyone. From majestic castles and rolling green hills to charming towns and incredible food, this magical land offers no lack of memorable experiences.
With our comprehensive 7-day Ireland itinerary, your entire family will get a taste of all this beautiful country has to offer!
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Best Time to Visit Ireland
There is never a bad time to visit the Republic of Ireland, otherwise known as the Emerald Isle.
However, as so many attractions are outdoors, the longer, drier and warmer days of Spring and Summer are the best seasons in which to visit.
But if you choose to visit in peak season, Irish school holidays run from mid-June through to late August/early September, so your Ireland itinerary will encounter higher prices and busier locations. Whatever time of year you visit, come prepared for all weather.
A good waterproof coat for kids and closed-toe shoes are a must. A robust umbrella is also a useful packing item.
Best Way to Get Around Ireland
The best way to explore Ireland is by car, as you will be able to pack more into your Ireland itinerary. 7 days is a short time to tour the country, so traveling by car is the best way to make the most of your time in Ireland.
Self-driving enables you to travel at your own pace and explore quieter off-the-beaten-track locations. It also means you can stop whenever you want to in order to savor views of the famous Irish countryside.
However, as there aren’t many motorways in Ireland, you will find that driving times may be slower than what you are used to or what you may expect from your research and planning.
Plus, once you leave urban areas, rural roads are narrow and winding, so even the shortest journey may take a long time: if you get stuck behind a tractor, it will take even longer.
There is a good public bus network between major Irish cities but buses in rural areas are irregular, with a limited network of routes.
The Irish train network, Iarnród Éireann, is comfortable, reliable, and reasonably priced. It can be used for intercity travel and for travel to rural towns, but the rail network will not take you to rural attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher.
There are several tour groups running multi-day tours of the Republic which cover all the major attractions.
Paddywagon Tours has its own hostel network, and in addition to its general tours, the company offers private family and small group tours. These can be a good option for anyone who might be nervous driving in Ireland.
Why Visit Ireland With Kids
Ireland is a family-friendly country to visit. It offers a wide range of attractions for all ages and interests, including natural wonders, museums, historical sites, and theme parks. Many attractions are free, and children are discounted at fee-paying attractions.
Larger families will also find that discounted family tickets are available for families of 5 and 6 rather than just the usual family of 4 discount. There are children’s menus in restaurants and cafes, and there are accessible playgrounds and parks throughout the country.
Furthermore, Irish people are renowned for their friendliness and hospitality. You will find that people are welcoming and helpful and interested in who you are and where you come from. However, as in any other location, the usual safety precautions apply.
Ireland is an easy country in which to travel: the infrastructure and money are familiar, and the majority of signs and notices are bi-lingual.
The most challenging aspect of your Ireland road trip itinerary will be the notoriously unpredictable Irish weather.
Planning a road trip to Europe? Read our 12 Best European Road Trips For Families here!
Ireland Itinerary 7 Days
📝 Please note that all the drive times below are approximate.
Day 1- Dublin
🚗 Start your Ireland itinerary in the capital city, Dublin (Baile Átha Cliath).
See the illuminated Book of Kells, wander the cobbled streets of Temple Bar, or learn about the history of the city at Dublinia.
Enjoy the fantastic playgrounds in Phoenix Park or discover how an iconic pint of Guinness is produced at the Guinness Storehouse.
Rest weary feet with a boat trip on the River Liffey, or exhaust the kids at Imaginosity, a three-story interactive children’s museum.
🏨 Stay at the Hilton Garden Inn on the banks of the River Liffey, a 15-minute walk from Dublin City Center. The hotel has excellent local transport links, and its spacious family rooms offer two large double beds.
Day 2- Dublin to Galway
🚗 Drive west for 2 hours to reach Galway.
Spend the rest of the day exploring Ireland’s fourth-largest city, Galway (Gaillimh). It is a colorful, vibrant city with a large student population.
Visit Galway Cathedral, Galway City Museum, or the fun National Aquarium of Ireland. Take a stroll along the Salthill promenade and have a good run around on the sandy beach.
If you like buskers and street entertainers, wander along Quay Street in the heart of the city, which is known for its talented street musicians.
🏨 Stay 10 kilometers outside Galway City at the Claregalway Hotel in Oranmore. Family rooms include beds for all the family, and the hotel has an onsite restaurant and a large, heated indoor pool.
Day 3- Galway to Killarney
This is an activity-packed day, so you will want to be up and out early.
From Oranmore, head south towards the Cliffs of Moher but make a quick stop at Kinvara (15 minutes away). Visit the small town’s picture-perfect Dunguaire Castle on the shores of Galway Bay.
Continue to the Cliffs of Moher, a 1-hour drive away.
The impressive and popular cliffs are 120 meters high and run for 14 kilometers along the County Clare coastline.
In addition to the Cliffs themselves, the stunning views here stretch to the Aran Islands and the mountains of Connemara National Park.
Families can walk 800-meter-long paths to view the Cliffs (which are best visited early to avoid the crowds) and enter the Visitors Center to learn how the cliffs were formed. Allow at least one hour here.
🚗 Drive from the Cliffs of Moher to Bunratty (Bun Rataigh), a 1-hour drive away. If you have time, make a quick stop in The Burren National Park to see its otherworldly karst landscape.
At Bunratty, spend a couple of hours exploring Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.
Bunratty Castle and Folk Park are great fun for families. It is an outdoor living history museum with over 30 furnished buildings from Ireland’s history.
Families can enter and explore the buildings where actors dressed in period costumes ‘live’ here and tell you about their lives and jobs.
The park includes a fully recreated 19th-century street with a pub, school, and post office. There is also a small woodland fairy trail, a farm, and an outdoor adventure playground.
Bunratty Castle, one of Ireland’s best-preserved castles, is also found here, and entrance is included in your Folk Park ticket. Kids will love exploring the castle’s narrow spiral staircases and eerie nooks.
🚗 Drive 1 ½ hours to Killarney for a well-earned rest!
🏨 Stay for the next two nights at The Gleneagle Hotel & Apartments, a highly rated and award-winning hotel that is perfect for families. The hotel has a 25-meter indoor pool, a pitch and putt course, and two tennis courts. It also offers a regular entertainment program in its on-site ballroom.
🤔 Are you wondering how to find cheap places to stay when traveling? Read our tips on How to Find Cheap Places to Stay When Traveling with Families!
Day 4- Killarney National Park
Killarney National Park on the edge of Killarney town (Cill Airne) is a 26,000-acre park with jaw-dropping rural scenery. It forms part of the Ring of Kerry scenic driving route, but Killarney National Park deserves more than a passing visit.
Killarney National Park has everything; lakeside walks, imposing mountains, dramatic waterfalls, and shaded woodland walks. There are incredible views at Ladies View and The Gap of Dunloe.
Other highlights include the 20-meter-high Torc Waterfall and Muckross House and Gardens, a 19th-century Victorian mansion with beautiful, landscaped grounds.
Return to Gleneagles Hotel and Apartments.
Day 5- The Ring of Kerry
Set off early to enjoy one of Ireland’s most scenic driving routes, The Ring of Kerry. As the name suggests, this is a 179-kilometer circular route around the most beautiful locations in County Kerry.
With no stops and light traffic, the Ring of Kerry is a 3-hour drive. But there is so much to see and do along the way that the route will easily take one full day.
Must-see stops along the way include sandy Derrynane Beach, the 7th-century Cahergal Stone Fort, Moll’s Gap viewpoint, and the attractive and colorful town of Sneem.
County Kerry is one of Ireland’s Gaeltacht areas. This means that the native Irish language is the primary language spoken in this region.
Road signs, shop fronts, and signposts will be in Irish. Enter any shop or restaurant, and you will hear the lilting tones of this ancient language.
Do not complete the whole Ring of Kerry loop, as you will be retracing your steps through Killarney National Park. Instead, head east before entering the park and drive to the coast and the lively town of Kenmare.
🏨 Stay at The Lodge, which is a homely, family-run guest house on 2 acres of land. It has free parking, free WiFi, and beds for each family member in its family rooms.
The seaside town of Kenmare (An Neidín) is a great location to hear traditional Irish music. Many of the pubs in the town offer seisiúns – turn up and play Irish music sessions.
Several pubs have family-friendly afternoon or early evening start times. Seisiúns are free to attend as long as you buy food or drink from the bar.
Day 6- Kenmare to Cork
🚗 Drive for 1 ½ hours to Blarney, home of the famous Blarney Castle.
Visitors flock to Blarney Castle from all over the world to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. The legend states that if you kiss the Famous Blarney Stone, you will get the ‘gift of the gab’; you will never be lost for words again.
Visitors must climb to the castle parapets and bend into contortionist shapes in order to kiss the outdoor stone. Don’t worry, there are guides on hand to help you, and it is lots of fun to do and watch.
Make sure you allocate enough time to explore the beautiful 60-acre castle gardens, which include a poisonous plants section and a Himalayan and Jungle section.
🚗 Drive the short 8 kilometers from Blarney to the city of Cork (Corcaigh).
Take a tour of Blackrock Castle Observatory or browse the stalls of the English Market. Younger children will love the Glenview Fairy Trail, whereas older children will find the history and stories at Cork City Gaol interesting.
🏨 Stay at the affordable Jurys Inn Cork which is a short ten-minute walk from principal Cork attractions.
Day 7- Cork to Dublin
After a hearty Irish breakfast (a must-try on any Ireland 7-day itinerary).
🚗 Drive 1 hour 40 minutes to Kilkenny (Giolla Chainnigh) on the banks of the River Nore.
Spend a couple of hours exploring charming Kilkenny, which is Ireland’s best-preserved medieval city.
Wander the city’s Medieval Mile visiting Kilkenny Castle or the 13th-century St. Canice Cathedral. St. Canice Cathedral has a 100-foot Rapunzel-esque round tower which is one of only two climbable round towers in Ireland.
Leave Kilkenny and drive 1 hour and 20 minutes north to Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains.
You will want to make several stops as you approach Glendalough to enjoy the scenery. Take detours to view Glenmacanasse Waterfall, the Sally Gap viewpoint, and Lough Tay. Lough Tay is affectionately known as ‘The Guinness Lake’ due to its shape and color.
Glendalough, in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, is one of the most visited locations in Ireland.
The site features the monastic remains of the 6th-century monastery founded by St Kevin. In addition to semi-ruined churches and priests’ houses, Glendalough is known for its ornate Celtic crosses and St Kevins Tower, a non-climbing round tower.
Accessible woodland paths will bring you to the lough itself and to a choice of tranquil woodland paths.
🚗 Drive 1 ¼ hours to return to your starting point at the Hilton Garden Inn.
Need Help Planning Your Itinerary?
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FAQ: Ireland Itinerary 7 Days for the Entire Family
Where should I visit in Ireland for a few days?
There are plenty of spots to consider
- Dublin is the capital city, with plenty to do in terms of sightseeing and nightlife experience.
- Cork is another popular destination, boasting spectacular coastal scenery and exciting food culture.
- Galway also offers great entertainment, shopping, and dining options amid the beautiful countryside.
- For something more remote, visit Counties Mayo and Donegal, which provide rugged landscapes with plenty of outdoor activities.
What can a tourist do in Ireland in 3 days?
If you’re a tourist in Ireland, you can spend 3 days exploring the country’s stunning landscapes by visiting first the medieval castles, touring iconic monuments such as the Cliffs of Moher and Dublin’s Christ Church Cathedral, sampling some of Ireland’s fine craft beer, and Irish whiskey, listening to traditional Irish music, trying out some of the country’s famous seafood dishes, taking a carriage ride around Killarney National Park and more.
How can I see most of Ireland in 7 days?
To see most of Ireland with family in 7 days, it is best to plan an itinerary for:
📍 Day 1-Start by exploring Dublin and visiting places like Phoenix Park, the Iconic Pint of Guinness, the Children’s Museum with Kids, and more!
📍 Day 2– From Dublin, move to Galway and explore top places for families like the Galway Museum, the National Aquarium of Ireland, and Sandy Beach.
📍 Day 3– Galway to Killarney National and visit the Cliffs of Moher and Dunguaire Castle in Kinvara
📍 Day 4–Killarney National Park and explore the wonders of Killarney National Park from the Gap of Dunloe to the Ladies’ view.
📍 Day 5-The Ring of Kerry– Enjoy the panoramic view of Derrynane Beach and the colorful town of Sneem.
📍 Day 6-Kenmare to Cork and take your kids and loved ones to the Blarney Castle and spend the afternoon in the Glenview Fairy Trail.
📍 Day 7-Cork to Dublin, but before going back to Dublin, you can spend some time visiting Kilkenny and Glendalough and go back to Dublin.
How many days do you need to see all of Ireland?
It would take around 3 weeks to see all of Ireland, though the more time you have, the better. Three weeks will give you enough time to explore Dublin, Belfast, Galway, Cork, Killarney, Limerick, Sligo, and Donegal or branch out into small towns and villages for the more traditional Irish experience. If you have more time, there are more exciting destinations, such as Kerry’s Ring of Kerry, Giant’s Causeway, the Cliffs of Moher, and Achill Island.
How much money do you need to visit Ireland for a week?
If you want to visit Ireland for a week with your family, you’ll need around $3,000 for a family size of 4 (2 adults+2 kids). This estimate includes accommodations, food, car, and other expenses. Depending on what activities you plan to do while in Ireland, your costs could be higher or lower.
What is the cheapest month to go to Ireland?
November to February. This is when airfare and hotel rates tend to be the lowest. Prices also drop during the shoulder season in March, April, and October, so this could be another good option if you’re looking for a cheaper holiday.
What is the best time to see Ireland?
Between March and May and September to November because these months offer the best combination of pleasant temperatures, long daylight hours, and low amounts of rain. During this period, visitors will enjoy the comfortable weather and mild temperatures to explore all Ireland offers. The days are also long enough for sightseeing, while the evenings remain mild and comfortable. The rain is usually light during these months, so visitors can make the most of their trip without worrying about being rained out too often.
Final Thoughts: Ireland Itinerary 7 Days for the Entire Family
This Ireland Itinerary for 7 Days is a fantastic way to see what the country offers.
From the historic destinations of Dublin and Galway to the adventurous landscapes of the Giant’s Causeway and Cliffs of Moher – there is something for everyone.
With many activities and attractions available, it’s no wonder this 7-day itinerary is so popular.
This Ireland road trip is an excellent way for families to experience all that Ireland offers in one trip!
So pack your bags now and book an unforgettable family vacation in Ireland with this Emerald Isle itinerary!
Happy Travels! 🙂
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Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.