Summer Holidays: 10 days in Ireland

Dublin

We started in Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital, full of Georgian architecture, cozy pubs, and cultural highlights. Walking through Trinity College and seeing the Book of Kells was a highlight, and we loved strolling through the Temple Bar district. Dublin was also our first hotel stop, conveniently located to explore the city on foot.

Galway

From Dublin, we took the train to Galway, a charming city on the west coast known for its music scene and colorful streets. The atmosphere was lively, with plenty of places to enjoy traditional Irish food. Galway also made the perfect base for day trips, and our second hotel stay was right on the Salthill Promenade, giving us easy access to the waterfront.

Connemara, Cliffs of Moher & The Burren

We joined two excursions with the Galway Tour Company. The first was to Connemara, a region of wild beauty, with lakes, mountains, and Kylemore Abbey nestled in the landscape. The second took us south to the dramatic Cliffs of Moher, rising high above the Atlantic Ocean, and to the Burren, a unique rocky limestone area that feels almost otherworldly.

Cork & Cobh

From Galway, we used the Citylink bus to reach Cork in the south. Cork had a different vibe – more laid-back, with a great food market at the English Market. Our third hotel was here, making it the ideal base to explore the city. Just a short train trip away was Cobh, a picturesque harbor town famous as the Titanic’s last port of call. Its colorful houses along the waterfront made it one of the most photogenic places of the trip.

Killarney & the Ring of Kerry

We also took a tour with Paddywagon Tours to see the famous Ring of Kerry. This scenic drive around the Iveragh Peninsula offered sweeping views of mountains, lakes, and rugged coastline. The tour also passed through Killarney, a charming town surrounded by natural beauty and a gateway to the national park.

A glimpse of Ireland’s history and language

Ireland has a long and fascinating history, from ancient Celtic settlements and Viking invasions to centuries of English rule and the struggle for independence in the 20th century. This history can be felt everywhere – in castles, abbeys, and monuments scattered across the countryside, as well as in the stories shared by locals.

Another unique aspect of Irish culture is its second official language: Irish (Gaeilge). While English is spoken everywhere, Irish is still taught in schools, used on road signs, and spoken daily in certain regions known as the Gaeltacht, especially in parts of Galway and Kerry. Ireland has deep cultural roots and pride in preserving its heritage.

Getting around without driving

Since we didn’t want to drive on the left, we relied on Ireland’s excellent transport system. Trains and buses were reliable and comfortable – the train from Dublin to Galway offered beautiful countryside views, while Citylink buses made intercity travel easy. Guided tours were a stress-free way to explore rural highlights without worrying about narrow roads. Finally, to get back to Dublin Airport, we used the Aircoach bus, which was convenient and direct.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Choose central hotels: Staying close to the city centers in Dublin, Galway, and Cork saved time and allowed us to walk to most attractions, restaurants, and tour departure points.

• Book trains and buses in advance: Tickets for Irish Rail, Citylink, and Aircoach are cheaper and easier to secure when booked online ahead of time. This also guarantees your seat during peak summer months.

• Consider guided tours: Companies like Galway Tour Company and Paddywagon Tours are excellent options for exploring rural areas without needing a car.

• Pack for variable weather: Even in summer, Ireland’s weather can change quickly, so bring layers and a good rain jacket.

Our summer holidays in Ireland were full of variety: vibrant cities, cozy towns, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Staying in three different hotels in Dublin, Galway, and Cork made it easy to enjoy each destination at a relaxed pace. Traveling without a car turned out to be a great choice – We could relax, enjoy the views, and learn more about each place from local guides.