1 Week Kid Friendly Ireland Itinerary

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Ireland is known for several things that make it a unique and fascinating destination for families. With it's beautiful landscapes, Ireland is renowned for its lush green countryside, rugged coastlines, and picturesque lakes. It's a perfect place for fun and adventure that kids are sure to love.

Why Your Young Kids Will Love Ireland:

Ireland is a great travel destination for kids for several reasons:

1. Rich History and Culture: Ireland is known for its rich history and fascinating culture. Kids can explore ancient castles, learn about myths and legends, and discover the country's Celtic heritage.

2. Beautiful Landscapes: Ireland is famous for its stunning landscapes, including rolling green hills, rugged coastlines, and picturesque countryside. Kids can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring the natural beauty of the country.

3. Friendly Locals: The Irish people are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness. Kids will feel welcome and have the opportunity to interact with locals, learn about their customs, and even listen to traditional Irish music.

4. Family-Friendly Attractions: Ireland offers a wide range of family-friendly attractions and activities. From interactive museums and wildlife parks to adventure centers and themed parks, there is something for every age group to enjoy.

5. Mythical Creatures and Fairy Tales: Ireland is filled with stories of mythical creatures and fairy tales. Kids can embark on magical adventures and immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Irish folklore. Overall, Ireland offers a unique and memorable travel experience for kids, combining education, adventure, and fun.

Perfect 1 Week Itinerary:

Here's a perfect 1 week itinerary including great places to visit with kids as well as awesome hotels that all include breakfast. This definitely makes traveling with kids much easier and one less thing to budget for!

My first recommendation would be to rent a car. This will make seeing as much of Ireland in 1 week as easy as possible.

Land In Dublin:

• Breakfast: Slice Cafe opens at 8am

• Visit St. Patrick’s Church

• Christ Church

• Lunch : Cafe Bambo 

• Dinner: Terra Madre- they make homemade pasta!

• Hotel Recommendation: Ashling Hotel, Dublin
  

• Hotel Link: https://expedia.com/affiliates/dublin-hotels-ashling-hotel-dublin.eQetKlx
  

Stay in Killarney for 2 nights: On route to Killarney visit:

• Stop in the town of Kilkenny and visit Kilkenny Castle

• Explore town and visit beautiful river (find full day parking lots to park car) 

• 2 hr drive, Head to Blarney Castle 

• Then drive 1 hr and 15 min to Killarney

• Hotel Recommendation: Dromhall Hotel, Killarney

• Hotel Link: https://expedia.com/affiliates/killarney-hotels-dromhall-hotel.snR1Nu5

Next Day:

• Drive the Ring of Kerry (110 miles) about 3.5 hrs to drive around it.

• BONUS TIP: Drive it clockwise to avoid tour buses

• Visit Ross Castle 

• Visit Torc Waterfall at Killarney National Park

• Ladies View

• Staigue Stone Fort

• Derrynane Beach

• Coomakista viewpoint

• Stop at Fisherman’s Bar or Lobster Bar in Waterville for seafood 

• Return to Killarney 1hr and 20 min drive

Head to Galway and stay there for 2 nights:

• 2hr and 35 min to Cliffs of Moher

• Visit Doolin, County Clare walk around and explore

• Eat at McGann’s Pub in Doolin

• Visit cave Alliwee Experience 

• Travel 32 min to town of Burren 

• Visit Burren national park FREE

• Drive 1 hr to Galway

• Hotel Recommendation: The Connacht Hotel, Galway

• Hotel Link: https://expedia.com/affiliates/galway-hotels-the-connacht-hotel.uuBCABY

Next Day:

• Spend the day in Galway

• Park in Eyre Square center 

• Visit the Galway city museum

• Stop at Thomas Dillions to buy Claddagh ring (this is the original store) 

• Head north to St Nicholas Collegiate church built out of Ireland's famous Connemara marble and limestone.

• Pass through The Quays and the Spanish Arch

• Galway Cathedral

• Take a stroll down toward the river docks and view Galway's traditional wooden sailboats, known as hookers

Head Back to Dublin:

• Drive to Dublin (2hrs and 20 min)

• Dublin Castle:

• 3 min drive 

• Guinness storehouse

• Trinity College- Book of Kells (Park at Q Park Setanta: This car park is just a 5-minute walk away from the Book Of Kells).

• Head to Temple Bar 

• Walk Grafton Street 

While you are in Ireland, your child will have the best time exploring and running around! There are tons of parks throughout Ireland and most pubs are kid friendly and offer children's menus.

BONUS TIP: Bring clothes for every season: There is an Irish saying that you may experience all 4 seasons in 1 day, and believe me, it’s true! The weather can be very unpredictable. One minute it’s sunny and the next minute it can be raining & windy. Be prepared with a jacket, umbrella, and an extra outfit for your little ones.