Travelling with a one week in Ireland itinerary Dublin Cliffs Galway gives you a perfect mix of vibrant city life, dramatic Atlantic scenery, and warm local culture. This route moves naturally from the capital’s historic streets to Ireland’s most iconic coastal viewpoints and the lively, music-filled energy of Galway, ensuring your week feels balanced, memorable, and easy to navigate.
Days 1–2: Dublin – History, Pubs, and Neighbourhood Strolls
Begin your trip in Dublin’s compact, walkable centre. Start at Trinity College to see the Book of Kells and the atmospheric Long Room, then continue towards Grafton Street for street performers and relaxed shopping. Spend the afternoon exploring St Stephen’s Green and nearby Georgian squares, where graceful façades and colourful doors showcase Dublin’s architectural elegance. Finish your day in Temple Bar for a classic pub session—choose a smaller, less touristy pub for a more authentic evening.
On your second day, focus on Dublin’s deeper stories. Visit Kilmainham Gaol for insight into the country’s fight for independence, followed by a stop at the Guinness Storehouse or Jameson Bow St Distillery depending on your taste. In the afternoon, walk along the River Liffey or explore the creative quarter around Drury Street, where independent shops and cafés highlight Dublin’s modern character.
Day 3: Drive to the Cliffs of Moher via the Midlands
Begin your journey west with a scenic drive through Ireland’s rolling farmland. En route, stop in charming towns such as Athlone or Birr for coffee and a stroll. Arrive at the Cliffs of Moher, where dramatic sea cliffs and sweeping Atlantic views deliver one of the most iconic scenes in Ireland. Walk both sides of the cliff paths to see the changing perspective, and allow time for quieter viewpoints beyond the main visitor centre. End your day in nearby Doolin, a small village famous for its traditional music and friendly pubs.
Day 4: The Burren and Wild Atlantic Coast
Dedicate a full day to the Burren region, one of Ireland’s most unusual landscapes. Limestone pavements, rare flora, and ancient megalithic sites create a scenery unlike anywhere else in the country. Visit Poulnabrone Dolmen for a glimpse into Neolithic history, then continue to coastal viewpoints near Black Head or Fanore Beach. The combination of rugged limestone and blue Atlantic waters makes this stretch especially photogenic. Return to Doolin for dinner and live music, keeping the atmosphere relaxed and local.
Days 5–7: Galway – Culture, Food, and Atlantic Vibes
Travel north to Galway, the cultural heart of Ireland’s west coast. Start your first afternoon with a wander through the Latin Quarter, where cobblestone streets, colourful shopfronts, and traditional pubs create an energetic yet cosy atmosphere. Eyre Square, Shop Street, and Quay Street form the core of the city’s lively pedestrian area, perfect for slow exploring and people-watching.
On your second day, explore Galway’s coastal beauty. Walk the Salthill Promenade towards the diving tower for classic Atlantic views, or take a ferry to the Aran Islands if weather allows—the islands offer windswept landscapes, stone walls, and a slower pace that feels like stepping back in time. Back in Galway, enjoy a seafood dinner featuring local oysters, mussels, or fresh-caught fish.
Your final day can be shaped around your interests. Visit the Galway City Museum for cultural context, join a food tour showcasing artisan producers, or rent a car to explore Connemara. The Connemara region, with its boglands, mountains, and lakes, delivers some of Ireland’s most cinematic scenery. Towns like Clifden or Roundstone make beautiful stops before returning to Galway for one last evening of live music and warm hospitality.
A well-planned one week in Ireland itinerary Dublin Cliffs Galway offers a rewarding blend of city charm, coastal drama, and cultural richness. With thoughtful pacing and time to enjoy each region’s unique character, you’ll leave Ireland with a deeper sense of its landscape, history, and welcoming spirit. If you’d like to personalise this itinerary according to the season or your travel style, a local Ireland specialist can help fine-tune the perfect route.
