McDonagh's

Heading to one of Ireland's top cultural hubs? Good choice! In my guide, you'll find everything from must-see attractions, best of food & drink, hiking/nature, and of course the best places to stay! For a preview of the type of things you'll find in this guide, check out my free New Orleans & Florence guides.

Follow this ultra-detailed 6-day route around Ireland, including Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Dingle, Ring of Kerry, Killarney National Park, Cork and Dublin. I'm sharing 63 total restaurant and pub recommendations, hotels, must-dos and alternate options. Plus, tips for driving, when to book ahead and other tidbits we picked up along the way. This is a fast-moving itinerary that makes the most of your short time in Ireland. If you want to see as much as you can while still having time to soak in the culture, this guide is for you. Originally planned for the first week of October 2023, but can be adapted to fit any 6-7 day travel window. It was the first of a two-leg trip with the second week split between England and Scotland (that itinerary is coming soon!) I took this trip with my boyfriend, so it is best suited for couples or small groups who like a jam-packed itinerary. Trip Summary: Day 1 - Fly in + Galway Day 2 - Galway + Cliffs of Moher + Dingle Day 3 - Ring of Kerry + Killarney National Park + Cork Day 4 - Cork + Dublin Day 5 - Dublin Day 6 - Dublin + Fly out

I've come back to Galway, Ireland on three separate trips and have loved it more each time. I studied abroad here, came back to visit with my then boyfriend, and put this guide together after visiting with my now husband and our best dog, Copper. Most of the restaurants and pubs are not dog-friendly, unless you can sit outside. But the hikes, walks, and beaches and very dog-friendly, as are most of the people here.