Best of Ireland in 9 Days: A Travel Itinerary by KrakenBros.com

Embark on a captivating journey through Ireland, starting and ending in the vibrant city of Dublin. This itinerary is designed to showcase the best of Ireland, from its stunning landscapes and historic sites to its lively pubs and exquisite culinary delights. Here's your guide to making the most of your 9-day adventure, complete with travel tips, food recommendations, and accommodation options.

Day 1: Arrival in Dublin

• Morning: Arrive in Dublin. Check into your accommodation. Consider staying at The Dean Dublin (approx. €200 per night for a double room) for a central location.
• Afternoon: Explore the city. Visit Trinity College to see the Book of Kells (€14 per adult). Stroll through Grafton Street for shopping.
• Evening: Dine at The Winding Stair (approx. €30-€40 per person) for traditional Irish cuisine. Enjoy a nightcap at The Temple Bar (price varies, expect around €7-€10 for a pint).

Day 2: Dublin to Cork

• Morning: Rent a car (approx. €40 per day) and drive to Cork (2.5 hours). Stop at the Rock of Cashel (€8 per adult) en route.
• Afternoon: Arrive in Cork. Visit the English Market for lunch (price varies, around €15-€20 for a meal).
• Evening: Check into The River Lee Hotel (approx. €180 per night). Dine at Market Lane (approx. €25-€35 per person).

Day 3: Exploring Cork

• Morning: Visit Blarney Castle (€18 per adult) to kiss the Blarney Stone.
• Afternoon: Return to Cork. Explore Crawford Art Gallery (free admission).
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Elbow Lane Brew and Smokehouse (approx. €30 per person). Experience Cork's nightlife at The Mutton Lane Inn.

Day 4: Cork to Killarney

• Morning: Drive to Killarney (1.5 hours). Check into The Killarney Park (approx. €220 per night).
• Afternoon: Visit Killarney National Park (free admission). Consider a jaunting car tour (approx. €50).
• Evening: Dine at Bricín Restaurant (approx. €25-€35 per person). Enjoy traditional music at The Danny Mann Pub.

Day 5: Ring of Kerry

• Full Day: Take a day trip around the Ring of Kerry. Highlights include Moll's Gap, Skellig Michael (boat trip approx. €100 per person, weather permitting), and Derrynane Beach.
• Evening: Return to Killarney. Relax at your hotel or explore local pubs.

Day 6: Killarney to Galway

• Morning: Drive to Galway (2.5 hours), with a stop at the Cliffs of Moher (€8 per adult).
• Afternoon: Arrive in Galway. Check into The Galmont Hotel & Spa (approx. €170 per night). Explore Galway City Museum (free admission).
• Evening: Dine at Ard Bia at Nimmos (approx. €30-€40 per person). Visit Tig Cóilí for live music.

Day 7: Exploring Connemara

• Full Day: Take a day trip to Connemara National Park (free admission). Visit Kylemore Abbey (€13 per adult).
• Evening: Return to Galway. Enjoy dinner at The Quay Street Kitchen (approx. €25-€35 per person).

Day 8: Galway to Dublin

• Morning: Drive back to Dublin (2.5 hours). Return the rental car.
• Afternoon: Last-minute shopping or visit Dublin Castle (€12 per adult).
• Evening: Farewell dinner at Chapter One (Michelin-starred, approx. €80-€100 per person). Explore Dublin's nightlife one last time.

Day 9: Departure

• Morning: Check out of your hotel. Depart from Dublin.

Travel Tips:

• Driving: Remember to drive on the left side of the road. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
• Weather: Irish weather can be unpredictable. Always carry a raincoat or umbrella.
• Currency: Euro (€) is the currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to have some cash.
• Power Adapters: Ireland uses Type G plugs. Ensure you have the right adapter for your devices.

Food and Bars:

• Food: Irish cuisine features hearty meals. Don't miss trying Irish stew, seafood, and the full Irish breakfast.
• Bars: Ireland is famous for its pubs. Enjoy live music and try local beers and whiskeys.

Accommodation:

• Dublin: The Dean Dublin - Central and stylish.
• Cork: The River Lee Hotel - Modern with beautiful river views.
• Killarney: The Killarney Park - Luxury in the heart of the town.
• Galway: The Galmont Hotel & Spa - Contemporary with excellent amenities.

This itinerary offers a blend of Ireland's natural beauty, historical sites, and vibrant culture. Prices are approximate and subject to change, so it's always a good idea to check current rates and availability ahead of time. Enjoy your Irish adventure!