Highlights
- Take the Kintyre Express over to Scotland's Isle of Islay
- Go waterfall chasing in beautiful Antrim
- Explore the thriving cities of Dublin and Belfast
- Walk on the UNESCO-listed Giant's Causeway
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Dublin, Historical Walking Tour, Whiskey Tasting | Dublin |
| Day 2 | Drive to Belfast & Explore the City, Cave Hill Walk | Belfast |
| Day 3 | The Causeway Coast, Giant's Causeway | Ballycastle |
| Day 4 | Rathlin Island Day Trip | Ballycastle |
| Day 5 | Isle of Islay (Scotland) Day Trip | Ballycastle |
| Day 6 | The Waterfalls of Antrim, Louth | Carlingford |
| Day 7 | Back to Dublin for a Free Afternoon | Dublin |
| Day 8 | Dublin's Great Cathedrals & Churches, Guinness Storehouse, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Dublin, Historical Walking Tour, Whiskey Tasting
A very warm welcome to Ireland! On arrival at Dublin Airport, you'll pick up your rental car, drive to your hotel in the city, and take time to settle in. Later, head off on a historical walking tour with a local guide. Dublin has a fascinating history, dating back to the Norman invasion in the 12th century and perhaps even earlier. The tour will go into the heart of the Medieval Quarter, where the 1,000-year-old Christ Church Cathedral can be found. Discover the 18th-century architecture of Georgian Dublin, which peppers the city and can be seen in its most impressive form at Dublin Castle.
Afterward, it's time to sample one of Ireland's most beloved exports on a one-hour tasting tour at the Jameson Distillery. Sip premium whiskeys exclusive to this distillery and peek into the office of John Jameson himself (known locally as JJ), the founder of this company that has become the world's bestselling Irish whiskey.
Day 2: Drive to Belfast & Explore the City, Cave Hill Walk
Today, drive across the border to Northern Ireland's thriving capital city of Belfast and explore either with a guided Black Cab Tour or a relaxed self-guided wander. A good place to start is the Cathedral Quarter, where you can stroll through the streets and take your pick of places for lunch or coffee. Admire the gardens at City Hall, go back in time at the Titanic Exhibition, or learn about the country's recent history with a visit to the Peace Wall.
In the afternoon, take a spin just north of the city to Cave Hill Country Park to tackle the Cave Hill Walk—a two-hour, 4.5-mile (7.2 km) trail. Park up at Belfast Castle for this steep circular route; your reward will be unbeatable panoramic views of Belfast and its coastline.
Day 3: The Causeway Coast, Giant's Causeway
Get ready for some magnificent scenery today as you head into the far north Causeway Coast, one of the most beautiful parts of Northern Ireland. Take the opportunity to stop and explore many sites along the way, including Dunluce Castle, the scenic cliffs of Fairhead, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, the Mussenden Temple, and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Giant's Causeway—a rock formation of about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that create a geometric pattern.
Traveling from Belfast to the Antrim Coast, you can also take an alternative route through the Dark Hedges at Armoy to live out your "Game of Thrones" fantasies. From there, continue to your choice of accommodation, like the lively Fullerton Arms in Ballycastle, with its music, bar, restaurant, and bed all under one roof. While the Giant's Causeway is a unique daytime tourist experience, those who stay the night here can head down to the seashore for a spectacular sunset free of crowds.
Day 4: Rathlin Island Day Trip
Day 5: Isle of Islay (Scotland) Day Trip
Catch the Kintyre Express—a tiny, fast passenger ferry—to Scotland's Isle of Islay, a stunning island on the so-called "Whisky Coast" (whiskey is spelled without an "e" in Scotland) and part of the Southern Hebrides. In the summer season, the island is easily accessible from Ballycastle, making it an easy trip.
Islay is probably best known for its peaty and smokey whiskies, and some are considered the best in the world. In fact, nine working distilleries use peat cut from the moss lands to give "Islay malts" their distinct flavors. Sláinte! Even if whiskey is not your favorite drink, Islay still promises an amazing experience with its birdlife, seafood, and dramatic coastal seascapes.
Day 6: The Waterfalls of Antrim, Louth
Driving along the Antrim Coast is a treat in itself, and stopping to explore the many waterfalls along this route is a must. Highlights include the 30-foot-high (9 m) Glenoe Waterfall, reached by an enchanting walk through a wooded glen; Cranny Falls near the quiet seaside village of Carnlough; and Dunseverick Falls, where the waters flow into the Atlantic Ocean.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 7: Back to Dublin for a Free Afternoon
Day 8: Dublin's Great Cathedrals & Churches, Guinness Storehouse, Depart
Dublin has a long and diverse religious history, and each of its churches and cathedrals has its own story. This morning, take time to head inside the likes of Christ Church Cathedral, St Patrick's Cathedral (Dublin's largest cathedral with magnificent stained glass windows), and the beautiful Franciscan Church of the Immaculate Conception—known as "Adam and Eve's" due to its beginnings in the back of an inn of the same name!
End your time on the Emerald Isle by quaffing a frothy pint of its most popular tipple during a visit to the Guinness Storehouse, where seven stories are dedicated to the history, heart, and soul of Ireland's most iconic drink. Head up to the Gravity Bar to take in 360-degree views of the city and wave farewell to Dublin before you drive back to the airport to return your car and catch your departing flight. Safe travels!More Great Ireland Itineraries
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