A tour of Ireland’s major cities would take 12-14 days, however please note this is just an overview of the sites. You’ll find that these itineraries typically spend only one or two nights in the larger cities and are on the go the rest of the time going from one place to another. This is why many travelers choose to focus on a specific region of Ireland, to ensure they can take it all in.

The larger cities of Galway, Limerick, Killarney, Cork, Belfast and Dublin all offer their own unique flair with central locations that are perfect for exploring the countryside.

Dublin, which is the capital of Ireland, is a favorite among travellers. Visit pubs, museums, restaurants and shops. Popular sites include St Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin Castle, Malahide Castle, Guinness Storehouse and the Garden of Remembrance. Take your time to stroll through Dublin’s beautiful Georgian squares. Enjoy entertainment in a theatre, club or pub with traditional Irish music.

Killarney is considered the tourist capital of Ireland due to its natural beauty and the world-renowned Ring of Kerry. Other popular sites include Ross Castle, Dingle and Tralee, Ladies View and McGillicuddy Reeks. Golfers can enjoy some of the world’s best championship golf courses nearby.

Belfast is a dynamic city in Northern Ireland, rich in history and culture. It is said to have the best nightlife in Ireland. Wonderful restaurants, shops, pubs and old markets offer plenty to do.

Limerick City, along the River Shannon, is ideally located for visiting the Cliffs of Moher, Bunratty Village and King John’s Castle. Durty Nelly’s is one of the most famous pubs in the area. Located in the south west of Ireland, Cork boasts beautiful landscapes of river valleys and western sandstone hills. From here you can visit Blarney Stone, Blarney Castle, Woolen Mills and the prosperous town of Kinsale. Walking through Cork, you can see the Opera House, St. Ann Shandon’s Church, St. Finbarr’s Cathedral.

Galway is full of narrow streets and medieval buildings that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. See the Spanish Arch, St. Nicholas Church, and Lynch Castle.

The shorter tours usually allow you to spend at least two nights in each of the major cities, so you have some free time to venture out on your own. You can always add a few nights before or after your tour starts too. Tourist accommodation ranges from cheap hotels and inns to five-star hotels and overnight stays in castles. Of course, the better the accommodation, the higher the price. Another thing to consider when selecting a tour is how much sightseeing is included, versus what will be offered as optional and cost extra during your trip. Also, how many meals are included, as this can mean considerable savings for you in Europe. Are there any special or highlight trips included? All of these factors can affect the price of a tour, but you may find that spending a little more up front is better value in the end to ensure you’re getting the most out of your visit.

In 8-10 days you can take a tour of Southern Ireland spending time in Dublin, Shannon, Killarney and Waterford which will include highlights and visits to places like Old Jameson Distillery, Bunratty, Ring of Kerry, Kenmare, Blarney. Kissingstone and Waterford Crystal Factory.

On an 8-10 day trip to Northern Ireland, you’d stay in places like Galway, Derry, Shannon and Dublin. The journey from the West Coast to the East Coast incorporates natural beauty and historic sites. Visit the Cliffs of Moher, The Burren and the Connemara region. Some of the highlights of the trip may include Kylemore Abbey, Glenveagh National Park, Giant’s Causeway, Trinity College and St. Stephen’s Green.

You can tour Ireland all year round, but the best weather is from May to October. The weather can always be cold, so pack warm clothes for the evenings. If you don’t mind the cold weather, winter is much less crowded and prices are about 40% lower than traveling during peak season.

You can find great shops in Ireland to buy hand cut crystal, Irish whiskey, jewelry, handmade sweaters and more.