Situated on the northwestern edge of Europe, Ireland is an island surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean. Over the centuries, the island has been shaped by its natural wonders and inhabited by diverse people and tribes, each contributing to the lasting legacy on both the terrain and culture. Ireland’s stunning landscapes and historical sites are a rich source to explore human history. Renowned for its breathtaking beauty, Ireland presents a plethora of enjoyable activities for families, both indoors and outdoors.
Popular itinerary for a Family Trip to Ireland:
This recommended 9-day itinerary, designed for families, begins and ends at Dublin International Airport.
Day 1: Dublin
Dublin, Ireland’s capital and largest city, was founded as a Viking settlement on the banks of the River Liffey. It was the center of British administration for over 800 years and the focal point of Ireland’s struggle for independence. The city center is relatively small and easily navigable on foot.
There are several beautiful parks and gardens in Dublin. Phoenix Park is the biggest in Dublin as well as the largest walled park in Europe. Established in the 17th century as a royal hunting park for wild deer and pheasants, this park has evolved over time. Today the park is open to the public 24/7 and still houses the descendants of the original wild deer. The park is a recreational ground, and you’ll see people cycling, running, hiking, or playing Hurling. Dublin Zoo, located within Phoenix Park, has a history spanning 200 years, and provides a habitat for over 400 species in an advanced natural environment.
While exploring the western part of Dublin, don’t miss the city’s most visited attraction – the famous Guinness Storehouse that tells the tale of the Guinness family and Ireland’s iconic stout, Guinness. There is a modern interactive display of the Guinness making process, and on the 7th floor you can enjoy a free pint of Guinness or a soft drink for kids along with panoramic views of Dublin.
Spend the night in Dublin.
Day 2: Dublin, continued
The small Viking settlement that evolved into Dublin was centered around Christ Church Cathedral, the oldest of the city’s two cathedrals. As you stroll around Christ Church Cathedral, observe the pavements to discover remnants of the Vikings embedded in them. On the cathedral’s west side, you’ll walk on pavements featuring the outline of an ancient Viking house. For a more in-depth exploration of Viking history in Dublin, step into the Dublinia center just across the street. Dublinia will transport you and your kids back to the Viking era, providing an immersive experience of life during those times.
Pause for a break in Merrion Square, where you can admire the Oscar Wilde statue overlooking his birth home and the playground inspired by “The Selfish Giant.” As you wander around St Stephen’s Green, appreciate the unique Georgian doors of the houses. On Thursdays, a small food market on the corner of Merrion Square offers delicious cooked food and sweets, perfect for a quick picnic in the garden. Enjoy a coffee break at Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre and indulge in shopping on Grafton Street.
Spend the night in Dublin.
Day 3: Heading north to Belfast
Today’s journey is north toward Belfast, the capital, and largest city of Northern Ireland. Once a bustling industrial and shipbuilding hub, Belfast became the backdrop for The Troubles – conflicts that marked Northern Ireland in the 20th century.
En route, make a stop at Howth, a charming historic fishing village. Explore the food and arts and crafts market, and take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque cliff walking trail. The Howth Pier offers a selection of fish and seafood restaurants serving fresh catches from the sea.
Belfast is forever linked to the Titanic, the colossal cruise ship that tragically sank on its maiden voyage to New York. Start your exploration at the Titanic Quarter with the innovative Titanic experience, located on the site of the Harland & Wolff shipyard. Engage in the interactive exhibition that transports you back to the shipyard workers’ daily life or the experience of a passenger aboard the iconic vessel.
As you drive through the city center, travel along the Peace Walls erected to separate the historically divided communities along the Falls and Shankill Roads. Today, these walls showcase street art expressing diverse political affiliations.
Conclude the day with an overnight stay in Belfast.
Day 4: Giant’s Causeway and Derry
Embark on a journey to explore some extraordinary sites. Begin your day by driving to the Giant’s Causeway, where dramatic basalt cliffs and stones grace the Atlantic Ocean shore. In proximity to the causeway, be sure not to overlook the haunting Dunluce Castle, the ruins of a 16th-century castle perched on the Antrim Coast overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
Continue your drive to Derry (Londonderry), Northern Ireland’s second-largest city. Take a stroll along the historic city walls, explore the Free Derry corner, and visit the Bogside neighborhood, a site of clashes during The Troubles. Discover the Guildhall, the city’s town hall adorned with ornate windows and featuring a local history exhibition.
Spend the night in Derry.
Day 5: Letterkenny
Explore Tropical World in Letterkenny, featuring a magnificent collection of tropical animals. The highlight is the butterfly home, surrounded by lush plants, flowers, and butterflies fluttering around you. For a thrilling day on the water, head to Inish Adventures, offering kayaking, water-based activities, and a water park with a giant inflatable floating obstacle course.
Spend the night in Derry.
Day 6: The Marble Arch Caves
Journey south to the Marble Arch Caves in County Fermanagh. Explore an underground system of rivers and caves amidst the natural beauty of mountains, gorges, waterfalls, and ancient woodlands.
Spend the night in Athlon.
Day 7: Bunratty Castle and Folk Park and the Cliffs of Moher
Explore Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. Originating as a fortress in the 13th century, it underwent changes in ownership and expansions over the years. Presently, the castle grounds feature the folk park, showcasing more than 30 buildings that depict rural life in Ireland. This includes everything from modest dwellings to the village school, a doctor’s house, and village shops, up to the residences of estate owners like Bunratty House.
Continue your journey to the Cliffs of Moher, undoubtedly Ireland’s most visited natural wonder. These iconic cliffs tower over 656 feet above the Atlantic Ocean. The visitors’ center offers a captivating exhibition on local wildlife, and a walking trail along the cliffs provides a variety of vantage points. If you prefer a sea view, head to the village of Doolin and take one of the boat tours.
Spend the night in Limerick.
Day 8: Limerick
Limerick, nestled along the River Shannon, Ireland’s longest river, boasts the iconic Kings John’s Castle, constructed over 800 years ago by the formidable King John of England to solidify his influence in Ireland. The castle employs multimedia and interactive displays, along with medieval courtyard games, to vividly portray life as it existed 800 years ago.
Did you know that Irish coffee did actually originate in Ireland? Visit the Foynes Flying Boat and Maritime Museum and discover the fascinating history of Flying boats, the pioneers of passenger air travel across the Atlantic, and learn the intriguing story behind the creation of Irish coffee.
If you still have time and energy, consider a kayak trip on the waters of the Shannon River.
Spend the night in Limerick.
Day 9: Wicklow National Park
Today’s adventure is in Wicklow National Park, an enchanting landscape of rolling hills, lakes, and beaches, brimming with natural wonders and recreational activities.
Avondale Forest Park features an exhilarating Treetop Walk & Viewing Tower, soaring 125 feet above the forest floor, as well as Ireland’s tallest slide, standing at an impressive 295 feet.
For a family-friendly outing, visit the Greenan Maze, a charming family-run farm offering delightful activities such as mazes, animal encounters, and scenic forest walks.
Seeking adrenaline-fueled thrills? Head to the Kippure Outdoor Activity and Adventure Centre, where a diverse range of outdoor activities awaits, including kayaking, rock climbing, clay shooting, and wilderness survival skills.
No visit to Wicklow would be complete without exploring Glendalough, known as the “valley of two lakes” in Gaelic. This historic site boasts picturesque walking trails and the ancient Glendalough Monastery, founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century. Trail maps are available at the Glendalough visitor center.
Spend the night in Dublin.
