The Ultimate 5-Day Ireland Itinerary: Based in Dublin

A couple of years ago, John and I found ourselves itching for a getaway but short on PTO and not exactly in the financial situation for an extravagant trip. We wanted somewhere that felt exciting and a little different from our usual travels (translation: not a beach this time), but also easy to navigate with just a handful of days. Enter: Ireland.

Back in 2017, I went on a three-week trip through Europe, and Ireland quickly became one of my favorite places I visited. So when John and I were looking for a quick getaway, I knew the Emerald Isle would be perfect. It was his first time in Ireland, so we wanted a trip that balanced must-see highlights with a few hidden gems – something that felt exciting and new for him but still gave me a chance to experience places I hadn’t seen during my first trip there.

With direct flights from Chicago to Dublin with Aer Lingus, getting there was easy for us, and with only five days to explore, it made the most sense to base ourselves in the capital rather than bouncing around the country. We wanted to maximize our time without constantly packing up and moving hotels, so taking day trips allowed us to see more without that hassle. Staying in Dublin gave us the perfect mix of city life, history, and countryside adventures, all while keeping things simple.

If you’re short on time but still want to experience Ireland’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and legendary pub culture, then this itinerary is perfect for you! It covers Dublin’s must-sees, plus two epic day trips to the Cliffs of Moher and Blarney Castle, making it a great mix of city and countryside. Whether you’re planning a last-minute getaway like we did or just looking for an efficient way to explore the Emerald Isle, here’s how to make the most of five days in Ireland!

Abbreviated Itinerary

The Ultimate 5-Day Ireland Itinerary: Based in Dublin

Day 1: Arrive in Dublin & Dive into Irish Culture

Arrive in Dublin early. We had a direct overnight flight from Chicago (ORD) into Dublin (DUB) on Aer Lingus. I love taking overnight flights to Europe because I can catch some sleep on the plane and arrive in the morning, giving me a full day to start exploring right away.

Side Story: Our flight to Ireland was actually delayed due to severe weather in Chicago and we had to shelter-in-place at the O’Hare Airport! Fortunately, we were only delayed about 90 minutes, but it was still a wild experience!

Stay at Staycity Aparthotels Dublin City Centre. A more budget-friendly option, this hotel was the perfect mix of comfort and convenience. The location made it easy to explore the city on foot, and having a café in the lobby was perfect for grabbing a quick coffee before heading out each morning.

Visit the Guinness Storehouse. Even if dark beer isn’t your thing, this is a must-do while in Dublin, offering an interactive tour through the history and brewing process of Ireland’s most famous stout. We even tried our hand at pouring the perfect pint in the Guinness Academy before heading up to the Gravity Bar, where we enjoyed our drinks with incredible panoramic views of the city.

Eat a traditional Irish dinner at The Brazen Head, Ireland’s oldest pub, where the cozy, historic atmosphere makes the experience even more special. We enjoyed classics like beef stew and bangers & mash, paired with a pint while listening to live Irish music. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Ireland!

Day 2: Cliffs of Moher & Galway Day Trip

Take a guided day trip to the Cliffs of Moher and Galway. I highly recommend this tour with Wild Rover Tours – it is one of the easiest and best ways to experience Ireland’s breathtaking coastline without the hassle of driving. The journey takes you about three hours east through the lush countryside before arriving at the Cliffs of Moher, where you’ll be met with jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic Ocean crashing against the cliffs. The views you get while along the cliffside paths are even more stunning in person than in photos!

On the way back to Dublin, we stopped in Galway, a charming, colorful city known for its lively atmosphere, street musicians, and fantastic seafood. With the time you get to wander the Latin Quarter, be sure grab a bite to eat at The Kings Head and maybe some dessert at Murphy’s Ice Cream!

Spend the evening exploring the Temple Bar District, where the streets are alive with music, energy, and the glow of pub lights. We hopped between bars, enjoyed some fantastic live Irish music, and soaked in the nightlife. No trip to Dublin is complete without a stop at the iconic Temple Bar, where you can grab a pint and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Day 3: Blarney Castle & Cork Day Trip

Take another incredible day trip from Dublin to visit Blarney Castle, home to the famous Blarney Stone. Of course, we had to climb to the top of the castle and kiss the stone. Whether it actually grants the “gift of gab” is up for debate, but it was a fun experience with amazing views! The castle grounds were just as impressive, with beautiful gardens and hidden trails to explore.

Enjoy a stop at the Rock of Cashel before Blarney Castle. The Rock of Cashel is a striking medieval site perched on a hilltop with ancient ruins and a fascinating history. 

Eat lunch at the famous English Market in Cork. After visiting Blarney Castle, the tour stops in Cork, where you are given time to wander the city, grab lunch, and check out the famous English Market, known for its fresh local produce and artisan foods. We picked up a couple of different things to try – a gourmet sausage from O’Flynn’s and a sweet fruit tart from Heaven’s Cakes – before finding a spot to sit and enjoy our meal.

Enjoy dinner and drinks at The Celt Bar back in Dublin. With its lively, traditional atmosphere and hearty Irish fare, this Irish bar is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of exploring. We enjoyed a delicious meal, a couple of pints, and some great live music while we were there. It ended up being one of our favorite dining experiences of the trip!

Day 4: Exploring More of Dublin

Explore Trinity College & the Book of Kells. A visit to Trinity College is a must in Dublin, especially to see the breathtaking Long Room Library and the famous Book of Kells. Walking through the library felt like stepping into a scene from a fairy tale, with towering bookshelves, winding staircases, and the scent of old parchment filling the air. You can also book a guided tour of the library that includes a visit to the Dublin Castle.

Take a leisurely stroll down Grafton Street, Dublin’s famous pedestrian shopping street, lined with charming boutiques, cafés, and lively street performers. Whether you’re browsing for souvenirs or just soaking in the atmosphere, it’s a great place to experience the city’s energy.

Relax in St. Stephen’s Green, a peaceful escape in the heart of Dublin. As we wandered along the park’s pathways, we spotted a beautiful swan gliding across the pond, making the moment feel even more serene.

Admire Dublin’s Architecture. As you stroll through the city, take in Dublin’s unique mix of medieval, Georgian, and modern architecture. From the historic charm of Dublin Castle to the stunning facades of Christ Church Cathedral and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, every corner tells a story of Ireland’s rich past.

Head to the Jameson Distillery Bow St. for a whiskey tasting and an inside look at the craftsmanship behind Ireland’s most famous whiskey. The guided experience includes a comparison tasting, a fascinating history of Jameson, and, of course, a perfectly poured drink to enjoy at the end.

Have dinner at The Church Café, a one-of-a-kind restaurant set in a beautifully restored 18th-century church. With its stunning stained-glass windows, high ceilings, and lively atmosphere, it’s a unique spot to enjoy great food, drinks, and even some live music.

Day 5: Relaxing Morning in Dublin & Departure

Enjoy a traditional Irish breakfast at The Stage Door Cafe. This beloved spot in The Temple Bar District is known for its friendly service and hearty portions. With a plate full of eggs, sausage, black and white pudding, baked beans, and soda bread, it’s a perfect place to spend your final morning in Ireland.

Visit the National Gallery of Ireland and the Natural History Museum, two incredible museums that offer a fascinating look at art and history – completely free of charge! The National Gallery houses an impressive collection of European and Irish art, while the Natural History Museum, known as the “Dead Zoo,” showcases an intriguing array of preserved animals.

Finish up any last-minute souvenir shopping, whether it’s picking up a cozy Irish wool sweater from Aran Sweater Market, some locally made chocolates or whiskey, or classic Temple Bar memorabilia. It’s the perfect way to bring a little piece of Ireland home with you!

Travel home!

Final Thoughts

Our five days in Ireland flew by, but they were packed with unforgettable experiences. From standing atop the Cliffs of Moher, wandering the halls of Trinity College’s Long Room Library, and kissing the Blarney Stone, to soaking in Dublin’s pub culture, this itinerary gave us the perfect mix of history, nature, and city life. Staying in Dublin as our home base made it easy to explore without feeling rushed, and the day trips let us experience more of Ireland’s breathtaking landscapes and charming towns.

If you have extra time, there’s so much more to see! I think that a day trip to Belfast or a scenic drive through the Wicklow Mountains with a visit to Kilkenny for its medieval charm would both make fantastic additions to an extended itinerary. No matter how long you stay, Ireland’s history and natural beauty make it a destination worth visiting!

My Tips for Visiting Ireland

• When to Visit – The best time to visit Ireland is late spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October) when the weather is mild, crowds are smaller, and landscapes are especially beautiful. Summer (July–August) offers the warmest weather and in my opinion is one of the best times to travel to Europe, but it also has the biggest crowds, while winter (November–February) is quieter but colder and rainier.
• Pack for All Weather – Ireland’s weather is unpredictable, so bring layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy walking shoes. Even if the forecast looks clear, rain can pop up at any time.
• Bring an Adapter – Ireland uses Type G plugs, so make sure to pack a power adapter if you’re coming from the U.S. or other countries with different outlets. This is the affordable power adapter I use and recommend.
• Book Popular Attractions in Advance – Spots like the Guinness Storehouse, Book of Kells, and day trips to the Cliffs of Moher can sell out, so book ahead to avoid missing out.
• Have Some Euros on Hand – Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always good to have some cash for smaller purchases, tips, or places that unexpectedly don’t take cards. 
• Keep an Eye on Your Belongings – Ireland is generally a very safe country, but like any popular tourist destination, pick-pocketing can happen, especially in crowded areas like Temple Bar or busy public transport. We’ve traveled to many places, but Ireland is the only place we’ve ever had something taken from us – fortunately, it was just a hat! Keep your valuables secure, use a crossbody bag with a zipper, and stay aware of your surroundings to avoid any mishaps. 

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