So you've booked with EF Ultimate Break on their Grand Tour of Ireland trip, now what?

Now, you... GET EXCITED!!! Congrats on booking! Having been on this trip myself, I know exactly how amazing it is! I'm here to share with you all of my tips from doing this trip with EF Ultimate Break.

Haven't booked with EFUB yet and just here for more information? You came to the right place! As an ambassador for EF Ultimate Break, you can book with my link, and save extra on any first trip! My link is in this guide below!

Galway, Ireland

Dublin, Ireland

Kilkenny, Ireland

Ireland

Belfast, UK

United Kingdom

Northern Ireland, UK

EF Ultimate Break Grand Tour of Ireland: Packing + Free Time Guide

Kilkenny is a medieval town located in the southeast of Ireland. Though it may not be as popular as Dublin, there are still plenty of things to see in Kilkenny. With that being said, below are 36 checkmarks to add to your Kilkenny Bucket List.

Kilkenny

Kilkenny Bucket List

There are many different ways to see the Emerald Isle from group travel, to train travel, bus travel, to self-drive or chauffer driven. 

This itinerary focuses on some areas of the country that are "off the beaten path" and accessible by self-drive or hiring your own private driver.

We highlight some points of interest that are common to the country, but delve into some other spectacular sites, villages and places that don't normally show up on a "typical Irish getaway". 

The itinerary is mapped out for a grand tour of the country, going to towns and villages that aren't always referenced in the normal brochures and is perfect for people who may have seen a lot of Ireland already and want to delve into smaller, niche areas; or for those who enjoy traveling off-the-beaten path and away from most of the general tourist destinations - getting into the heart of the country.

Newgrange, Newgrange, Donore, County Meath, Ireland

Rock of Cashel, St. Patricksrock, Cashel, County Tipperary, Ireland

Roscommon, Ireland

Wicklow Mountains, Laragh West, County Wicklow, Ireland

Waterford, Ireland

Limerick, Ireland

New Ross, County Wexford, Ireland

Kilbeggan, County Westmeath, Ireland

Athlone, County Westmeath, Ireland

Mallow, County Cork, Ireland

Glendalough, County Wicklow, Ireland

Westport, County Mayo, Ireland

Ireland - Off the Beaten Path - 11 Nights / 12 Days

You can take a road trip around Ireland for as long as you want to but this is the way to do it in a week! This is just the Republic of Ireland, and does not include Northern Ireland. For that, I would add on a few days and go up to Belfast. 

I don't think you are doing Ireland justice if you only stay in Dublin, the coast and the small towns made the trip in my opinion! 

Weeklong Roadtrip of Ireland

driver picks us up from Dublin after breakfast, stop in Kilkenny to explore, staying the night in Cork 

Dublin-Kilkenny-Cork (day 3) 

Embark on a captivating adventure to Ireland, the perfect initial destination for families from North America. Ireland, with its rich cultural heritage, intriguing history, and the ease of a shared language, promises an unforgettable experience. Prepare to be mesmerized by the Emerald Isle's breathtaking landscapes, warm hospitality, and vibrant traditions. Your family will be welcomed with open arms and countless tales to uncover.

Kilkenny Castle

The Kilkenny Castle is a Victorian defensive castle and has been around for over 800 years. This breathtaking building overlooks the River Nore and tends to be one of the busier things to see in Kilkenny, especially during the summer months. The castle is open daily (except for December 24th-26th) and the hours depend on the time of year. The cost is around $10 for an adult’s self-guided visit.

The castle, set in extensive parkland, was remodeled in Victorian times. It was formally taken over by the Irish State in 1969 and since then has undergone ambitious restoration works. 

Right across from the hotel, really cool to see!