Guaranteed First-Timer’s Guide to Visit Ireland in 5 Days (Updated 2025)
Last Updated on October 8, 2025 by Erin Donahue
Erin Go Bragh. That’s where I got my name from. It took 30 years for me to visit my namesake. If you’re planning a trip to Ireland and only have five days to explore, you’re in for a treat! The island of Ireland is only about the size of South Carolina. From the bustling capital city of Dublin to the stunning natural landscapes of the west coast, there’s so much to see and do in this beautiful country. Whether you’re interested in exploring the rich history and culture of Ireland or just want to take in the breathtaking views, there’s something for everyone.
For me, finally visiting Ireland was part of an end-of-year mad dash where I went to as many destinations as possible within three months. During this time period, I also went back to Taiwan, Malaysia, and Arizona. If this is your first trip and you’re not sure where to start, this 5-day itinerary will help you make the most of your time.
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5-Day Ireland Itinerary Quick Look
- Day 1: Dublin
- Day 2: Northern Ireland – Castlewellan, Dark Hedges, Giant’s Causeway
- Day 3: Belfast + Drive to Galway
- Day 4: Galway + Cliffs of Moher
- Day 5: Return to Dublin
Day 1 – Explore Dublin
Start your trip by flying into Dublin, Ireland’s capital. After checking into your hotel, take a walk through the city and explore some of the top landmarks and attractions while soaking up the atmosphere.
What to See in Dublin
While in Dublin, though, my biggest recommendation is to see the Book of Kells at Trinity College. The book is famous for its medieval illuminated manuscripts and the intricate details of the illustrations dating back to 800 CE. For me, the real highlight was the library it’s housed in, aptly named The Old Library, which is way more interesting. For good reason, too, it’s considered one of the world’s most beautiful libraries!
Afterward, wander through the area where Temple Bar is, Dublin’s cultural quarter, filled with pubs, music, and cobblestone streets.
Staying in Dublin should be the shortest leg of the trip. It’s recommended to rent a car and get out of the city in order to see the country.
Day 2 – Cross Into Northern Ireland
After a day in Dublin, jump in the rental car and drive up to Northern Ireland as part of your 5-day itinerary. If you don’t know, Ireland and Northern Ireland are actually two separate countries. Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom and uses the British pound instead of the euro. This region carries deep history tied to “The Troubles,” a period of conflict between the 1960s and 1990s. If you’ve been paying attention to current events in Palestine, the situation is similar.
Get lost in the Castlewellan Peace Maze
The first stop once I crossed the border was Castlewellan’s Peace Maze, one of the largest hedge mazes in the world. It was built to symbolize the reconciliation efforts between Ireland and Northern Ireland after decades of division.
It’s supposed to take about 40 minutes to reach the center and ring the bell, but I got completely lost and had to cheat my way out through the exit. I definitely need to return one day and solve it properly!
Game of Thrones Filming Spot: The Dark Hedges
If you’re a GoT fan, you’ll recognize this stop as the “Kingsroad”. Dark Hedges is a beautiful avenue of beech trees in Ballymoney, County Antrim, that has become a popular tourist attraction because of the show.
Go early at sunrise to avoid crowds, and hopefully, you get some epic fog! Within an hour when I went, the weather changed dramatically. From eerie to sunny, to snowy, and then foggy. I didn’t get much dramatic fog and didn’t bring my telephoto lens with me, but I will literally go back just for Dark Hedges. It’s an incredible location for photography, especially if you love shooting tree tunnels and compression shots.
Visit Giant’s Causeway and drive the Causeway Coastal Route
Just a short drive from The Dark Hedges is the Causeway Coastal Route. It’s like Northern Ireland’s version of the Pacific Coast Highway in California. The island has beautiful coastlines all around its edges. Driving the full Causeway coastal route will have to wait for another trip because the priority was getting to Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage site. The site features over 40,000 interlocking hexagonal basalt columns that were a result of a massive volcanic eruption 60 million years ago! According to my quick Googling, the same lava even reached Fingal’s Cave in Scotland, which has identical basalt columns. Whenever I get the chance to go to Scotland, I’ll have to compare! Iceland also has similar basalt columns, but I’m not sure if it’s related (and I also haven’t visited yet).
Before heading back on the road, stop at a restaurant called the Nook, right in front of the Giant’s Causeway entrance. Inside, it’s such a cozy vibe, and since I was there in the winter, enjoying a cup of hot chocolate in front of the fireplace was the best feeling ever!
Day 3 – Discover Belfast’s Maritime History
Before leaving Northern Ireland to drive back into Ireland, it feels important to check out Belfast, where the Titanic was brought to life. This historic city has transformed into a hub of creativity and culture while keeping its maritime roots alive. Outside the Titanic Quarter, you can see and take a tour of the SS NOMADIC, the Titanic’s sister ship and the last remaining White Star Line vessel in the world.
The Titanic Hotel is where the former headquarters of Harland & Wolff, the builders of the Titanic, reside. It’s gorgeous and bougie! I may or may not have stolen a roll of perfumed toilet paper from the bathroom there.
Day 4 – Galway and the Cliffs of Moher
If you’re traveling in winter like I was, drive west to Galway for its Christmas Market. The drive takes around four hours, so plan to arrive by midday. Since the market comes alive at night, take your time and relax during the day.
During my time in Galway, I stayed at Skeffington Arms Hotel and was pleasantly surprised by their breakfast spread. In the evening, walk around each of the vendors or catch live music performances at one of the city’s many pubs. I tried smashed potatoes for the first time, not to be confused with mashed potatoes. It really hit the spot!
The Cliffs of Moher
No trip to Ireland is complete without seeing the famed Cliffs of Moher, especially for first-timers. Located in County Clare on the west coast, it’s about an hour away from Galway. It’s one of the most iconic and breathtaking natural landmarks in Ireland. These cliffs stretch for about 14 kilometers and rise to 214 meters above the Atlantic Ocean.
Since it’s on the west coast of the island, staying there for sunset is an absolute must. I didn’t get to because the driving conditions in the winter were the worst I’d ever experienced. When the sun went down, the roads were icy and stressful. Even during the day, the roads were constantly icy. All that means, though, is I’m due for another trip back!
That being said, I did get to experience one clear day, though, and when that happens, you can see the Aran Islands, home of knitted jumpers and quaint cottages, behind O’Brien’s Tower.
Day 4 – End In Dublin Again
On the final day of your 5-day itinerary in Ireland, drive back to Dublin to drop off the rental car. If you have time, take a stroll through the city’s historic streets and visit some of the landmarks you may have missed on your first day. If you don’t have time, head to the airport for your flight home!
FAQs About Visiting Ireland in 5 Days
Q: Is 5 days enough time to see Ireland?
A: Five days is enough to experience Ireland’s highlights if you plan strategically. You won’t see everything, but you can cover Dublin, Northern Ireland (including Dark Hedges and Giant’s Causeway), Galway, and the Cliffs of Moher without feeling rushed.
Q: When is the best time to visit Ireland?
A: The best months to visit are May through September for warmer temperatures and longer daylight. However, winter offers fewer crowds and has Christmas Markets in towns like Galway.
Q: Should I rent a car in Ireland?
A: While public transportation is available between major cities, renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore Ireland’s countryside, coastlines, and small towns at your own pace.
Q: What side of the road do they drive on in Ireland?
In both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, people drive on the left-hand side of the road.
Q: Do I need a visa to visit Ireland or Northern Ireland?
A: If you’re from the U.S., Canada, or most European countries, you don’t need a visa for short visits to the Republic of Ireland. However, Northern Ireland follows UK entry rules, so check your country’s visa requirements.
Q: What currency is used in Ireland and Northern Ireland?
A: The Republic of Ireland uses the euro (€), while Northern Ireland uses the British pound (£). Credit cards are widely accepted in both regions, but it’s smart to carry a bit of local currency for smaller purchases.
Q: What should I pack for 5 days in Ireland?
A: Bring layers, a waterproof jacket, and rain boots. The weather changes constantly, so you’ll want clothing that can handle wind, rain, and sunshine – all in the same day.
Q: What’s the best way to see the Cliffs of Moher?
Visit around sunset for the best light and fewer crowds. If driving in winter, leave before dark to avoid icy road conditions.
Watch 5-Day Ireland Itinerary on YouTube
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