4 Day Ireland Itinerary
Ireland is a must visit destination because of the rolling green hills, friendly people, and dramatic coastline. Weather you decide to visit in winter, fall, spring, or summer you will have a fantastic time in Ireland. This 4 day Ireland itinerary is perfect if you want to see a lot in a short period of time. Ireland is a small country, so it is easy to travel around in. In this 4 day Ireland Itinerary we will go over Dublin, The Cliff of Moher, and Galway. Ready for your Ireland adventure?
This post is all about your 4 day Ireland itinerary.
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When To Visit Ireland
The first thing you do while planning a trip is deciding when to go. Lucky for you Ireland is wonderful year round. I mean, don't get me wrong, the weather is usually gray and a bit rainy no matter when you go, but that is part of the experience.
My favorite time in Ireland is fall. Coming from Florida it was lovely to experience fall in Ireland and get away from the heat. Over the holidays you will find charming holiday decor and cheery locales at the pubs, so winter is also a fabulous time for Ireland. Summer is the most popular time in Ireland, so prices may skyrocket, but if you can deal with crowds, summer is lovely.
4 Day Ireland Itinerary
Dublin
Dublin is the gateway to Ireland. You must spend a night or two in the charming city of Dublin.
If you are visiting Dublin this fall - A Minimalist Dublin Fall Packing List.
Where To Stay In Dublin
Budget Dublin Hotels
Abbey Court Hostel - The Abbey Court Hostel is a great choice if you are planning on staying in a hostel in Dublin. Located in the heart of Dublin, you will find everything you need at Abbey Court. My favorite parts of the hostel are the free walking tours you can do daily, airport shuttle, and in house restaurant.
Clink i Lar - Also in the heart of the city the Clink i Lar hotel and hostel is the perfect budget friendly option in Dublin. You will find everything you need at the Clink i Lar hostel - in house restaurant, comfortable bed, bar, twenty four hour reception, and more.
Mid-Range Dublin Hotels
Motel One - I stayed at Motel One and loved it! The location was perfect and the rooms were comfortable. The perfectly located Motel One offers stylish decor, comfortable rooms, a bar, breakfast served daily, twenty four hour front desk, a lift and more. I highly recommend Motel One if you are looking for a middle range priced hotel in Dublin.
Wren Urban Nest - The modern Wren Nest Hotel located right by Trinity College is a great place to stay in Dublin, especially if you are looking for aesthetics. Offering a restaurant, bar, lift, and more you will love your stay at Wren!
Luxury Dublin Hotels
The Fitzwilliam Hotel - Located next to the stunning St. Patrick Cathedral, The Fitzwilliam Hotel is fit for royalty. You will find a restaurant, bar, fitness center, twenty four hour reception and more at the luxurious Fitzwilliam Hotel in Dublin.
The Merrion Hotel - The Merrion Hotel is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Dublin. The elegant hotel is decorated with Georgian furniture and is home to a two star michelin restaurant, room service, fitness center, spa, and more.
Related Article - Where To Stay In Dublin
Day One In Dublin
Coffee At Bear Market Coffee
Bear Market Coffee is a centrally located cafe in Dublin that is a great way to start your day of exploring. You will find everything breakfast at the Bear Market Cafe - specialty coffee and pastries (both gluten free and regular).
Related Article - 11 Best Coffee Shops In Dublin, Ireland
Ha'penny Bridge
Within walking distance of Bear Market Coffee is our first stop on the Itinerary, Ha'Penny Bridge. This historic pedestrian only bridge built in 1816 is a Dublin staple. The Ha'Penny Bridge connects North Quays to the Temple Bar district. You won't need too much time at the Ha'Penny Bridge, but it is definitely worth a visit.
Trinity College
Trinity College is a must visit in Dublin because of the gorgeous architecture, history, and it is home to impressive ancient artifacts. Your stroll around Trinity will offer amazing photo opportunities, so make sure you bring your camera!
Book of Kells
Located in Trinity College is the Book of Kells. The Book of Kells is an ancient book that contains religious manuscripts from the medieval period and has the four gospels from the new testament. You will also have the opportunity to visit the stunning trinity college library when purchasing a ticket to see the Book of Kells. Purchase your ticket beforehand because you will have to wait if you do not. Book here.
Grab Lunch at Sprout & CO
Spout and Co is a lovely spot for lunch after your adventures at Trinity College. At Sprout and Co you will find healthy options - salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and more. All of the food comes from a local farm near by.
Grafton Street
While it is touristy, Grafton Street is a must visit in Dublin. Pop in a few shops on Grafton Street. I loved The Kilkenny Shop for Irish themed clothes, jewelry, and home decor. It's a perfect place to grab some gifts!
St. Stephens Green
St. Stephens Green is a lovely place to take an afternoon stroll. Enjoy Irish wildlife and greenery with tea in hand from one of the many nearby coffee shops.
Temple Bar
The Temple Bar is probably the most popular attraction in Dublin. You cannot miss the Temple Bar with its bright red exterior and gorgeous window boxes. When you walk into the temple bar you will find a mix of locals and tourists enjoying some Guinness and listening to live Irish music. You can also enjoy food at The Temple Bar. The Temple Bar is a great way to finish your first day in Dublin!
If you love off the beaten path travel - 27 Hidden Gems In Dublin
Day Two In Dublin
Breakfast At Legit Coffee Company
Start your morning in Dublin at the delectable Legit Coffee Company! Enjoy specialty coffees, pastries, and breakfast at Legit Coffee Company. Legit is perfect for a sit down breakfast, brunch, lunch, or an on the go coffee and pastry.
Dublin Castle
The Dublin Castle your first stop on your second day exploring Dublin. Inside the stunning castle you will find artifacts from Ireland's history, stunning rooms (ball rooms, elegant dining rooms, bed chambers, ect.), and you will have the opportunity to learn all about the history of Ireland.
Christ Church Cathedral
A few minutes walk from the Dublin Castle is Christ Church Cathedral. The Christ Church Cathedral is one of Dublin's oldest buildings. The gorgeous church known for its gothic features, detailed floor tiles, and stunning stained glass windows.
St. Patrick's Cathedral
St. Patrick's Cathedral was one of my favorite things I saw in Dublin. Both the interior and exterior was absolutely beautiful. Founded in 1192, St. Patrick's Cathedral is a catholic cathedral and is currently the national cathedral of Ireland.
Guinness storehouse
Believe it or not, Guinness Storehouse is Ireland's most popular tourist attraction. Once you step foot off your plane into Ireland you will immediately notice that Guinness is sold almost everywhere! The Irish are loud and proud with their favorite beverage, so the Guinness Storehouse was certainly and must see in Dublin.
Howth Cliff Walk
If you have extra time on your second day in Dublin escape the city and head to Howth for a wee hike. Howth is only a 30 minute train ride from Dublin. Howth Cliff walk is a great alternative to the Cliff of Moher if you do not have enough time to see them.
Related Article - A Quick Guide To Howth
Galway
Where To Stay In Galway
Budget Galway Hotels
The Eyre Square Townhouse - The Eyre Square Townhouse is a perfect option if you are on a budget and do not want to stay in a hostel in Galway. The centrally located townhouse have everything you need - comfortable rooms, city views, private bathrooms, and more!
The Kinlay Hostel - The Kinlay Hostel a great place to stay in Galway if you are solo travelling and looking to meet other travellers. There is a mix of private rooms, female dorms, male dorms, and mixed dorms. The hostel offers a community room with plenty of games, a fully equipped self catering kitchen, free breakfast, and more.
Mid-Range Galway Hotels
Park House Hotel - The Park House Hotel is a lovely boutique hotel in the center of Galway. Offering a lovely restaurant, bar, room service, comfortable rooms, and more. The Park House Hotel is a lovely option for a mid range hotel in Galway!
The Harbour Hotel - The Harbour Hotel is located right on the water with views of Galway picturesque waterfront from almost all of the rooms. At the Harbour Hotel you will find a restaurant, room service, a bar, a fitness center, spacious rooms, and more.
Luxury Galway Hotels
Glenlo Abbey Hotel and Estate - Two miles outside of Galway city is the elegant Glenlo Abbey Hotel and Estate. Built in 1740, the Glenlo Abbey Estate and Hotel sits on 138 acres of lush scenery on the banks of Lough Corrib. The hotel offers an array of rooms and plenty to do on the property. Some notable activities are golfing, relaxing at the GLO Spa, falconry, and fishing.
Related Article - A Complete Guide To Galway, Ireland
Related Article - Best Hotels In Galway, Ireland
Day Three In Galway
If you are interested in meeting other travelers and learning more about Galway from a local, opt for this tour.
Morning Train To Galway
Catch a train to Galway on the morning of your third day in Ireland. The train from Dublin to Galway is only about 2 hours and 30 minutes. You can easily book trains in Ireland on omio.
Eyre Square
Eyre Square is in the center of Galway and is full of shops, restaurants, and plenty of green space to enjoy the outdoors. It is the perfect place to start your day in the fabulous Galway City.
Latin Quarter
One of my favorite parts of Galway was the Latin Quarter. Admire the medieval architecture, stop in a few boutiques, and cafes. You cannot miss the Latin Quarter while in Galway City.
Byrne's Bookshop
Located in the Latin Quarter is the unique Byrne's Bookstore. Byrne's Bookstore holds over 100,ooo books! You can find books for everything in almost any language. As a bookworm I spent a good amount of time here, but even if you are not into reading Byrne's is still worth checking out.
Galway Cathedral
Make sure you checkout the Galway Cathedral while in Galway. The Galway Cathedral, built in 1958, is one of the the largest and most beautiful buildings in the city. The Cathedral is situated on the stunning Corrib River, which was also a beautiful sight to see.
Spanish Arch
The Spanish Arch, built in the 16th century, housed soldiers who protected Galway City as the Spanish Arch is situated by the water. The Spanish Arch is an easy and quick stop on the way to my favorite part of Galway, Long Walk.
Long Walk
Long Walk offers the best views in Galway. Just beyond the Spanish Arch you will find lovely views of the water and the adorable Galway homes (that you have probably seen all over instagram). While technically not part of long walk I suggest walking a bit farther to see views of the open ocean.
Grab Dinner and Drinks At a Pub
Galway is known for its pub scene, so you would be crazy to not go out to a pub and grab some Guinness and fish and chips. I went to Finnegans Pub, but there are so many to choose from and you cannot go wrong!
Day Four - Day Trip From Galway
You can either do this day trip by yourself if you have a car or you can do a tour. You will see almost all of these highlights on this one.
Breakfast and Coffee at Jungle Cafe
The Jungle Cafe was my go-to coffee joint in Galway. You can find tasty lattes and baked goods in there cafe and you can find a more traditional breakfast (eggs, pancakes, waffles) in there restaurant if you are wanting to sit down.
Dunguaire Castle
Dunguaire Castle is a great way to start your Galway day trip. The stunning castle is situated on the southeastern shore of Galway Bay and makes for a great photo. Most people just stop for a few minute to look at the castle, but if you plan ahead you can indulge in a tour of the interior.
Burren National Park
Burren National Park is the perfect place to go if you love the outdoors or want to learn more about Irish history. At the Burren National Park you will learn all about Neolithic Period (estimated to be around 4200 BC and 2900 BC). See monuments such as the Poulnabrone Dolmen, Father Teds House, and Mullaghmore. There are also seven lovely walking trails in Burren National Park.
Leamaneh Castle
Located just outside of Burren National Park and on the way to the Cliffs of Moher, you will find the Leamaneh Castle. The Leamaneh Castle is home to some fascinating tales. Read about the tales of Red Mary of Leamaneh Castle here.
Lunch in Doolin
Stop in at a pub in the nearby Doolin. Doolin is a short ways away from the Cliff of Moher and is an easy stop for lunch. Some pubs in Doolin are McDermott's Pub, Fitz's Pub, and McGann's Pub.
Cliffs Of Moher
The Cliffs of Moher are on almost everyone's travel bucket list. If you don't already know about the Cliffs of Moher, they are Ireland's best attraction (in my opinion). Towering 700 feet over the Atlantic Ocean, the Cliffs are a spectacular sight to see.
Lurraga Ballyryan
Larrage Ballyryan are a great place to stop on the way back to Galway. Known as the little Cliff of Moher, Lurraga Ballyryan has a rugged coast that is certainly worth a visit.
Book Here - Cliffs Of Moher Tour From Galway
4 Day Ireland Itinerary Wrap Up
Ireland is an enchanting place - the rolling green hills, fun pub culture, gorgeous cliffs overlooking the sea, and cool city make Ireland a must visit destination. I hope that this 4 day Ireland Itinerary helps you plan the perfect trip to Ireland. If you liked this post or have anything to add please leave me a comment. More on Dublin and Galway here!
Happy Travels,
Daisy
So much good info here!!