Ireland Itinerary: 2 Weeks on a Self-Drive Tour of the South

Situated south of Dublin in the east of Ireland, County Wicklow boasts an enthralling coastline, incredible history, and famous, immaculate mansion gardens. Ireland's most popular hiking trail meanders between green woodlands and Wicklow's wild coast and is the home of the charming, hidden Silver Strand Beach. Wicklow's most popular attraction is the historic Powerscourt Estate, renowned for its elegant, delightful gardens and features a lovely cafe, gift shop, golf courses and excellent hotel. One of the top historical highlights is Wicklow's Historic Gaol, reputed to be one of the most Ireland's most haunted places. The Wicklow Mountains National Park is a nature lover's paradise of rivers and glacial lakes. Other highlights include excellent golfing, surfing, kayaking, walks and more.

Escape to the peaceful embrace of Faithlegg, a charming village in County Waterford, Ireland, where history, nature, and relaxation intertwine. Situated just a short, scenic drive from Waterford City, Faithlegg is primarily celebrated for the magnificent Faithlegg House Hotel, a beautifully restored 18th-century estate that now welcomes guests as a luxurious hotel and premier golf resort. Here, you can tee off on the challenging 18-hole championship golf course, wander along tranquil woodland walking trails, and soak in the picturesque views stretching over the serene River Suir. The nearby Faithlegg Church, with its ancient graveyard whispering tales of the past and its notable historic architecture, adds a touch of cultural intrigue to the area. Furthermore, the village provides an excellent base for discovering the popular Waterford Greenway, exploring charming coastal towns, and delving into the rich history of Ireland’s Ancient East. Whether you seek a quiet countryside retreat, an invigorating golf weekend, or convenient access to nearby attractions, Faithlegg offers a delightful opportunity to experience one of Ireland’s most scenic and historically rich corners.

A visit to County Cork isn't complete without experiencing the picturesque and historic port town of Kinsale, a long-favored holiday resort. Here, a large, safe harbor, an impressive yachting marina, and lovely beaches combine to create an ideal setting for a variety of outdoor sports and leisure activities. As you wander through the charming and compact town center, an undeniable sense of history permeates the air, evident in its narrow winding streets and prominent historical buildings. Many of these now house delightful galleries, unique gift shops, welcoming bars, and cozy cafes, all waiting for you. Travelers are drawn from afar to admire Kinsale’s beautiful Georgian and Victorian architecture, and to savor some of the finest culinary experiences Ireland has to offer. Prepare to be enchanted by the unique charm and beauty of Kinsale!

Southwestern Ireland's County Kerry is home to Tralee, its vibrant capital and largest town, where a bustling yet down-to-earth coastal atmosphere awaits. Immerse yourself in centuries of history at the Kerry County Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of priceless archaeological artifacts. As you wander the ancient streets of the Old Town, you'll be greeted by beautiful 18th-century Georgian buildings and a charming array of local pubs, restaurants, bookshops, and antique stores lining the main streets and old lanes. Nature lovers should not miss a visit to the picturesque Banna Beach or a relaxing boat ride through the Tralee Bay Wetlands Centre. An annual highlight you won't want to miss is the Rose of Tralee festival, a lively celebration of Irish culture complete with street performances, bustling markets, captivating theatre, and spectacular fireworks.

The southern Irish province of Munster welcomes you to Limerick, a vibrant city situated on the banks of Ireland’s longest river, the majestic River Shannon. Here, a rich cultural experience awaits, boasting incredible heritage architecture, a flourishing festival scene, and a wide array of other attractions for you to discover. Known for its unique charm and fascinating history, Limerick features an ancient old town where you can admire Georgian buildings, the medieval-era St. Mary’s Cathedral, and the picturesque St. John’s Square. We encourage you to sample local cuisine, enjoy a pint at a traditional Irish pub, explore the impressive 13th-century King John’s Castle, and visit a variety of top-notch museums. For art enthusiasts, the Hunt Museum, displaying an impressive collection of art and artifacts, and the Limerick City Gallery of Art, housed in the historic Carnegie Building, are must-sees. Don't miss the opportunity to stroll along Limerick’s newly revamped waterfront and boardwalk.

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.

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.