Author & Photographer: George Mitchell
Our recommendations are not influenced by affiliate links – we have none. Our itineraries, photos, and advice are based having lived in Europe for seven years. We are avid hikers, nature lovers, culture vultures, and photographers. Ireland is one of our favourite destinations.
Ireland Itineraries
We have created five regional itineraries and maps for you: East, South, West, North, and Dublin. Each regional itinerary takes about one week to do. Click on each region heading next to a photo below to find out the exciting things to do and see in that region.
How do I choose what is unique to Ireland?
First you need to read about the features that will give you a Quintessential Ireland experience. Second you need to define your main interests.
How do I choose where to go in Ireland?
Third you need to determine the length of your trip. Then chose one or more of the following itineraries that best matches your interests and your timeframe.
The Ireland East Itinerary includes lush Powerscourt Gardens, intact Killarney Castle, ancient Glendalough and Rock of Cashel monasteries, and colourful Kinsale fishing village (OK it’s a town now). The route is mainly inland rather than coastal, more history than scenery.
The Ireland South Itinerary is a must see for Quintessential Ireland — dramatic Healy Pass, the “Real” Ring of Kerry, tourist Krazy Killarney, Victorian Garinish Gardens, and the must-see Dingle to Slea Head Drive with the best drop dead coastal views.
The Ireland West Itinerary is another must see for Quintessential Ireland — dramatic Cliffs of Moher; other-worldly Burren limestone landscapes; spectacular back-to-back crescent Gurteen Bay beaches; genial Galway; elegant Kylemore mansion and gardens; rhododendron-lined Connemara roads and mountains, Killary Fjord, Doo Lough Valley, spectacular Keem Beach and rugged coastline of Achill Island.
The Ireland North Itinerary covers the area between less-touristed Sligo in the Republic of Ireland to ultra-touristy Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. It is a worthwhile alternative to Ireland South — it offers Portacloy Beach, peat farms, Neolithic Ceide cliffs, walled city of Derry, Horn Head hikes, turquoise beaches, some of the best castle ruins at Dunluce, view-encrusted Giant’s Causeway coastal hike, the Norman era Trim Castle, and ancient Neolithic Newgrange burial mound older than the Pyramids.
Two self-guided walks are provided for those who desire urban pursuits.
This walk offers Christ Church Cathedral and Dublin castle, cobblestone streets and ancient history, as well as tales from Trinity College.
This walk offers walking, shopping, eating and drinking — while decanting Irish myths and recent history.
Quintessential Planning
If this is your first trip, we would say that the South and West are the classic itineraries to see Quintessential Ireland. On the other hand, the North brings you to many exciting sights as well. If you are keen on seeing Game of Thrones sites and Belfast then stay in the North to maximize your fun and minimize your driving.
Terra Encounters 
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