4-Day Ireland Itinerary: Dublin & Galway Highlights
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Dublin and Galway in 4 Days: City Charm Meets Wild Atlantic
This 4-day Ireland itinerary brings together the cultural heartbeat of Dublin and the laid-back charm of Galway. Start your adventure in the capital, where you’ll explore iconic landmarks like St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the Guinness Storehouse. More...
County Dublin
Day 1 - 2
Stretching along Dublin Bay on the east coast of Ireland, County Dublin is home to the vibrant city of Dublin, the country’s colourful capital. Aside from the lively capital, the county features rolling green hills scattered with a collection of character-filled villages, an array of beautiful beaches and a rich history. Visitors can enjoy an iconic black beer - the traditional Guinness; learn about Viking history at the Dublinia, a fascinating heritage centre; and discover the seaside towns of Malahide and Howth, which both offer scenic coastal paths to explore. Other highlights include the Ardgillan Castle and Demesne in the seaside town of Balbriggan, the charming seaside town of Skerries, and the bustling town of Swords.
The Grafton
The Grafton is located on Grafton Street in Dublin 2, within easy reach of Dublin's city attractions. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites with modern amenities such as flat-screen TVs, desks, tea/coffee-making facilities and mini-fridges. You can enjoy delicious meals in the hotel's restaurant and refreshing drinks in the cocktail lounge. Other hotel facilities and services include free Wi-Fi, a terrace, a lounge and a fitness centre.
Your activity
St Patrick's Cathedral Dublin
St Patrick's Cathedral
Built in honor of Ireland's patron saint, Saint Patrick, Saint Patrick's Cathedral is located right next to the well-known spring where, according to tradition, Saint Patrick baptized converts during his visit to Dublin. The parish church of Saint Patrick was made a collegiate church in 1191 and a cathedral in 1224. The current building has existed since 1220 and is the state cathedral of the Church of Ireland (a church of the Anglican Church). St. Patrick's Cathedral is built in the Gothic style and its magnificent interior is decorated with funerary monuments such as that of the Boyle family and the tomb of the dean Jonathan Swift (author of Gulliver's Travels). Swift was dean of St Patrick's Cathedral until his death in 1745. The chancel is decorated with ornate windows and spectacular choir stalls, once used by the Knights of St Patrick. In the huge west towers there are large bells, whose sound is part of the cityscape of Dublin.
Galway
Day 3 - 4
Set on the spectacular north shore of Galway Bay, where the River Corrib flows from Lough Corrib to the sea, Galway is a large, sprawling university city, commonly referred to as the 'most Irish' of Ireland's cities. Despite Galway’s considerable size, the historical city centre is tiny, with a bohemian atmosphere emanating from its colourful facades, buzzing markets and laid-back inhabitants. Dubbed ‘the city of festivals’, Galway is known as the liveliest place in the republic with its internationally acclaimed theatre scene, vibrant nightlife bolstered by a spirited student population, and plenty of quirky hidden cafes and restaurants with some truly excellent food. Highlights include: the constant impromptu performances of traditional music, the pretty Salthill beach with waters suitable for swimming, and beautifully wild surrounding nature.
The Hardiman
Standing proudly in the heart of Eyre Square since 1852, The Hardiman Hotel welcomes you with generous hospitality and an easy, familiar charm that makes you feel right at home. All guests enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, and some executive rooms and suites offer breathtaking views of Eyre Square.
You can savor breakfast in the comfort of your room or enjoy a full buffet breakfast with an open kitchen at Gaslight Brasserie. For a relaxing afternoon, visit the tea room, where you can enjoy a delicious drink accompanied by light snacks.
The Hardiman is the perfect base for exploring the stunning Wild Atlantic Way. From the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren to the Aran Islands and the rugged beauty of Connemara, there’s so much to discover.
Your activity
Cliffs of Moher & The Burren
Experience the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren
Visit the Cliffs of Moher - Ireland's #1 tourist attraction on the west coast. A tour of the Cliffs of Moher is a must for anyone traveling in Ireland. They recently appeared in Harry Potter's Half-Blood Prince and of course the classic film The Princess Bride. A hike along the edge of Ireland allows you to enjoy the beautiful, rugged coastline and views of the Atlantic. The unique landscape of the Burren is one of the many highlights along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Along Galway Bay, you will first stop in the fishing village of Kinvara to visit Dunguaire Castle before continuing into the Burren. The Burren is home to 75% of Ireland's native flora and is home to numerous ancient monuments, many of which we will visit, including the Gleninsheen Wedge Tomb, the 5,800-year-old Poulnabrone Dolmen and Ballyalban Fairy Fort - home of the little men with green hats and orange beards.
Past Kilfenora, home of the famous Irish High Crosses, and Lisdoonvarna, the site of the world famous Matchmaking Festival, we drive to the coastal town of Doolin, where we have lunch before visiting the 200 meter high and 8 km long Cliffs of Moher. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Aran Islands, and take time to absorb the natural beauty of the Cliffs of Moher (minimum 1.5 hour stay - entry is included in your ticket).
We return via the coastal road overlooking Galway Bay and the Aran Islands, making a brief stop to hike the Burren's lunar-like landscape and see sights such as Leprechaun Head before returning to Galway shortly after 6pm.
Did you know that in 2011 The Burren and Cliffs of Moher received Global Geopark status? UNESCO Geoparks are "areas where sites and landscapes of international geological importance are managed with a holistic approach of protection, education and sustainable development". There are only 127 geoparks in 35 countries.
Roman Karin will help you — free of charge, no obligation to book.
