Day 1: Dublin Castles & Coastal Charm (Overnight in Dublin)
Pickup in Dublin. Visit Dublin Castle (historic city stronghold) and Malahide Castle on the coast. Evening free in Dublin.

Day 2: Medieval Kilkenny (Overnight in Kilkenny)
Drive to Kilkenny (130 km). Tour Kilkenny Castle and stroll the Medieval Mile. Option to explore pubs and music at night.

Day 3: Rock of Cashel & Blarney Castle (Overnight in Cork)
Travel via Rock of Cashel (ancient seat of kings) to Blarney Castle (kiss the Blarney Stone!) near Cork (190 km total).

Day 4: Limerick & Bunratty Castle Banquet (Overnight in Limerick/Clare)
Visit King John’s Castle in Limerick or go straight to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park (medieval village experience). Enjoy an optional medieval banquet dinner.

Day 5: Cliffs of Moher & Galway Bay Castle (Overnight in Galway)
Morning at Cliffs of Moher (Co. Clare). Continue to Dunguaire Castle on Galway Bay (160 km total) before reaching lively Galway City.

Day 6: Northern Highlights – Donegal to Antrim Coast (Overnight in Belfast)
Scenic drive through Donegal to Northern Ireland (320 km). See Donegal Castle en route, tour Dunluce Castle perched on Antrim’s cliffs, then arrive in Belfast.

Day 7: Belfast & Carrickfergus, Return to Dublin
Morning Belfast city tour and Carrickfergus Castle on Belfast Lough (20 km). Drive back to Dublin (180 km) for evening drop-off. Slán abhaile!

Ireland Castles Tour Overview

Duration: 7 Days, 6 Nights

Start/End: Begins in Dublin (Day 1 morning pickup from your hotel or Dublin Airport) and ends in Dublin (Day 7 late afternoon drop-off).

Transportation: Private deluxe vehicle (e.g. Mercedes V-Class or similar) with a dedicated driver-guide. Approx. 1,170 km total driving over 7 days (average 2–3 hours driving per day, broken into segments). Long stretches are minimized and scenic routes chosen for comfort. Cold water, Wi-Fi, and phone charging are available on board.

Accommodation: 4- or 5-star hotels and guesthouses in central locations (Dublin, Kilkenny, Cork, Limerick/Clare, Galway, Belfast). All lodgings are vetted for excellent service, comfort, and local charm. Upgrades to castle hotels can be arranged on request (e.g. a night at a castle-turned-hotel for a royal treat).

Included: Professional English-speaking driver-guide throughout, all transportation costs (fuel, tolls, parking), guided tours of all castles (with admission fees), and daily full Irish breakfast.

Not Included: Lunches, dinners (except optionally included medieval banquet on Day 4), personal expenses, and gratuities. Your guide will happily suggest favorite restaurants and pubs for each evening.

Tour Pace & Style: This tour is rich in history and photo opportunities but balanced with free time. Typically, you’ll have a castle visit in the morning and another in the afternoon, with a leisurely break midday for lunch and impromptu stops (quaint villages, panoramic vistas, craft shops, etc.). Evenings are generally free to relax or explore on your own – whether that’s enjoying a pint in a local pub with live music, or a quiet stroll around a scenic town. The tone is educational (you’ll learn a lot about Irish history from medieval times to today) yet never boring – our guides mix facts with legends and humor, and encourage questions and conversation. Expect a warm Irish welcome at every stop!Why You’ll Love This Tour: If you’ve ever dreamed of strolling through castle corridors, dining in medieval banquet halls, and imagining life in 15th-century tower houses, this is the journey for you. In one week, you’ll experience Ireland’s diverse regions – the urban bustle of Dublin, the medieval towns of the southeast, the rugged wild Atlantic coast, and the enchanting landscapes of Northern Ireland – all through the lens of their castles. Each castle tells a story: you’ll hear of feuding clans, Norman invaders, royal visits, ghostly tales, and everyday life in these stone giants. You’ll also kiss the Blarney Stone (earning the “gift of gab”), savor farm-to-table Irish cuisine, and perhaps sample a whiskey where it’s distilled. Best of all, you’ll travel stress-free, escorted by a knowledgeable local guide and chauffeur in one. No driving worries or tour bus crowds – instead, enjoy personalized attention, flexibility to linger longer at places you love, and the camaraderie of an expert guide who’s passionate about sharing Ireland’s heritage with you. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime road trip blending luxury, adventure, and cultural immersion.

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Dublin Castles & Coastal Charm (Overnight in Dublin)

Distance & Drive Time: ~50 km total, <1 hour driving (plus city driving).

Route: Dublin Airport/City → Malahide (North County Dublin) → Dublin City.

Welcome to Ireland! Your driver-guide will meet you in the morning at your Dublin hotel (or arrivals hall at the airport) to kick off your castle adventure. We’ll start with a short drive to the picturesque seaside town of Malahide, about 16 km north of Dublin.

• Malahide Castle & Gardens: Set in 260 acres of lush parkland near the coast, Malahide Castle is one of Ireland’s oldest castles, dating back to the 12th century. It was home to the Talbot family for an astonishing 791 years (1185–1976), witnessing battles, banquets, and even a ghost or two. As we approach the ivy-clad stone walls, you’ll hear how King Henry II granted these lands to young knight Richard Talbot in 1185, and how generations expanded and cherished the castle. Inside, we’ll take a guided tour through furnished rooms adorned with medieval artifacts and portraits. From the oak-paneled Great Hall to the sumptuous Drawing Room added in Victorian times, Malahide Castle feels alive with history. Outside, enjoy a stroll in the walled botanical gardens or among the peacocks on the lawn.
• Scenic Coastal Drive: Leaving Malahide, we’ll take a leisurely route along Dublin’s coast. We pass through the charming village of Howth on a peninsula (time permitting, a quick photo-stop at Howth Harbour with its fishing boats and perhaps a view of Ireland’s Eye island). Then it’s back toward Dublin city (we’ll avoid heavy luggage check-in now by already having done so, or we’ll arrange accordingly).
• Dublin Castle: In the afternoon, we visit the heart of historic Dublin. Dublin Castle isn’t a castle in the medieval fortress sense now; it evolved into a Georgian palace and administrative hub. But its significance is immense – it was the seat of British rule in Ireland for centuries, and today it’s used for Irish State occasions (like presidential inaugurations). We’ll tour the State Apartments, seeing the Throne Room and St. Patrick’s Hall with its magnificent ceiling paintings and Waterford crystal chandelier. Down in the undercroft, we can view remnants of the original 13th-century castle foundations and medieval city walls. Your guide will recount pivotal moments here: from Viking beginnings (the site was once a Viking settlement in the 10th century) to the handing over of the Castle to Michael Collins and the new Irish Free State in 1922.

After an exciting first day, we’ll drop you at your Dublin hotel. This evening, you have the vibrant capital at your doorstep. Feel free to explore Temple Bar’s lively pubs, dine on modern Irish cuisine in a city restaurant, or simply rest after your flight. (Your guide can recommend options – whether it’s a pint of Guinness in a 250-year-old pub or a folklore and dinner show for some traditional music). Tomorrow, we hit the road into Ireland’s medieval heartland!

Day 2: Medieval Kilkenny & Castle of Marble City (Overnight in Kilkenny)

Distance & Drive Time: ~130 km, ~2 hours driving (Dublin to Kilkenny).

Route: Dublin → (optional stop in County Kildare/Laois) → Kilkenny via M9 motorway.

After breakfast, we depart Dublin heading south. Our destination is Kilkenny, often called Ireland’s “Medieval Capital” or “Marble City” (for its distinctive black limestone). The drive is pleasant and fairly direct. We’ll cruise through the flat farmlands of the Midlands, perhaps making a quick rest stop in County Kildare (famous for horse breeding – you might spot some thoroughbreds grazing near the Curragh) or at the heritage site Rock of Dunamase (a dramatic ruined hilltop castle in Laois visible from the highway, should you wish to stretch your legs and take a photo on a short detour).

By late morning, we arrive in Kilkenny City, a compact city straddling the River Nore. Its medieval cobbled streets and well-preserved architecture immediately set the scene. We’ll drop off bags at our centrally-located accommodation (so you’re free to wander later) and then visit the star attraction:

• Kilkenny Castle: This magnificent Anglo-Norman stone castle has anchored the city since 1195, when it was built by the Norman Earl William Marshal. For over 600 years it was the seat of the powerful Butler family. We’ll enter via the sweeping parkland (the rose garden and fountain provide a lovely approach) and take a guided tour inside. Highlights include the Victorian-era renovated chambers: the elegant Library with its mahogany bookcases, the Drawing Room richly decorated in 1830s splendor, and especially the Long Gallery – an impressive portrait hall with a painted roof and towering windows, showcasing Butler family portraits and a figure of a Butler ghost (said to haunt the corridors!). As you stand in the massive Gallery, imagine the banquets and balls that took place here. We’ll also point out defensive features from medieval times – such as the round towers at each corner (one of which you can still see from the exterior) and the thick castle walls that withstood sieges. In fact, Kilkenny Castle saw action during the 17th-century Confederation Wars and Cromwellian conquest (it fell to Cromwell’s forces in 1650).

• Kilkenny Medieval Mile: After the castle tour, we’ll explore a bit of Kilkenny on foot. The “Medieval Mile” is a marked route through town linking major historic sites. We’ll walk past the 13th-century St. Mary’s Cathedral and the Shee Alms House (problematic as a tourist site but we can mention in passing), and visit the Medieval Mile Museum housed in a former church – a small but interesting collection of local medieval artifacts (including gothic tomb sculptures and one of Ireland’s oldest city charters). Another must-see is St. Canice’s Cathedral at the north end of town: a majestic 13th-century stone cathedral. If you’re up for a climb, you can ascend its adjacent Round Tower (30m high) – one of only a few medieval round towers in Ireland that you can still enter and climb via ladders. The 360° view from the top over Kilkenny’s rooftops and countryside is fantastic on a clear day. Back at ground level, we’ll peek into the Black Abbey (a 14th-century Dominican abbey with stunning stained glass) or simply meander the narrow lanes like Butter Slip, which evoke the Middle Ages.

Kilkenny is also known for its crafts scene – you might find time to drop by the Kilkenny Design Centre across from the castle, which showcases Irish artisan crafts (perhaps pick up a woolen throw or hand-crafted pottery).

By late afternoon, enjoy some free time. Kilkenny’s city center is very walkable and full of boutiques, galleries, and pubs. You could try a pint of the local Smithwick’s Ale – brewed in Kilkenny for over 300 years – maybe at Kyteler’s Inn, a medieval tavern dating to 1324 with a fascinating story (its original owner, Dame Alice Kyteler, was accused of witchcraft – one of the earliest witch trials in Ireland!). The lore and atmosphere at Kyteler’s are unbeatable.

In the evening, the town comes alive with traditional music. Consider joining a session at a pub like The Hole in The Wall (a tiny 16th-century tavern) or Matt the Miller’s by the river. Our overnight stay is in Kilkenny, so you can soak up the nightlife without worry. Sleep in a piece of history too – our partner hotel here sits within a restored historic building, blending modern comfort with old-world charm.

(Driving Note: Today’s driving was light, giving you more time to enjoy Kilkenny. If you prefer, we can also arrange an afternoon countryside excursion to nearby sites like Jerpoint Abbey (a beautiful 12th-century monastic ruin) or Smithwick’s Brewery Tour, schedule permitting.)

Day 3: Castles of Munster – Cashel & Blarney, on to Cork (Overnight in Cork City)

Distance & Drive Time: ~190 km, about 3.5 hours total driving (Kilkenny→Cashel ~70 km, Cashel→Blarney ~90 km, Blarney→Cork ~10 km).

Route: Kilkenny → Cashel (Co. Tipperary) → Blarney (Co. Cork) → Cork City.

Today we venture into Munster, the southern province, known for rolling green pastures and dairy farms – and some of Ireland’s most famous castle sites. We’ll check out from Kilkenny and drive westward through County Tipperary. Our first stop rises dramatically on a rocky outcrop in the Golden Vale plains:

• Rock of Cashel: More than a castle, the Rock of Cashel is a spectacular complex of medieval ruins perched on a limestone cliff. Often called St. Patrick’s Rock or just Cashel of the Kings, it was once the seat of the High Kings of Munster (ancient Irish province) long before the Normans. Here, in 5th century legend, St. Patrick baptized King Aengus – during which Patrick allegedly pierced the king’s foot with his crosier by accident, and Aengus, thinking it part of the ritual, endured it without flinching! Today, you approach the Rock and immediately feel its grandeur – a round tower, a large Gothic cathedral, and Cormac’s Chapel (a 12th-century Romanesque church) dominate the site. We’ll explore these ruins, hearing how Cashel was a power center from the 4th century, then gifted to the Church in 1101, after which most buildings here were constructed. Inside Cormac’s Chapel, note the exquisite stone carvings and the faint remnants of 800-year-old frescoes – very rare survival in Ireland. In the ruined Cathedral, your guide may demonstrate the stunning acoustics with a quick Gregorian chant (if you’re lucky to catch a moment alone in there, it’s goosebumps-inducing). And don’t forget to peek into the Hall of the Vicars and the ancient Cross of St. Patrick. The views from the Rock’s base are lovely as well – green pastures dotted with cows and the dramatic silhouette of this acropolis of Irish history.

After Cashel, we’ll take a lunch break. There’s a nice café across from the Rock (where you might try a bowl of Irish stew or a simple sandwich). Also consider sampling Cashel Blue – a famous local farmhouse cheese.

Back on the road, we continue south into County Cork, known as the “Rebel County” for its spirited history. Our target: one of the world’s most legendary castles.

• Blarney Castle & Gardens: We arrive at Blarney Castle in the afternoon, ready to partake in its famous ritual! Blarney Castle, built in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy, the King of Munster, is a robust tower house set in beautiful grounds. Though partly in ruins inside, visitors come for one main reason: to kiss the Blarney Stone. Climb the spiral stairs (over 100 steps) to the castle battlements. There, embedded in the parapet, is the Stone of Eloquence. According to legend, kissing this stone endows you with “the Gift of the Gab” – great eloquence or skill at flattery. A castle guide will help you lie on your back, hold iron rails, lean your upper body out over a gap (don’t worry, there’s a safety grate below!), and smooch the stone. It’s a fun adrenaline rush and a must-do for Ireland travelers. Do join the long list of illustrious kissers (from Churchill to Mick Jagger)!

After the exhilaration of kissing the Stone (and maybe practicing some newly loquacious speech on the way down), you’ll have time to wander Blarney’s lovely grounds. Seek out the Poison Garden with its intriguing collection of poisonous plants (from wolfsbane to ricin, all safely behind signs), or stroll the lake walk and rock close, said to be a place of fairy magic. Perhaps find the Wishing Steps – legend says if you can walk down and back up these steps with eyes closed and think of nothing but a wish, it will come true.

We then make the short drive into Cork City, Ireland’s second-largest city, often called “the Rebel City.” We’ll reach Cork by late afternoon. Cork’s vibe is youthful and friendly, with the River Lee flowing through the center in two main channels. After hotel check-in, enjoy the evening as you like. Options: a casual dinner in the lively Huguenot Quarter (Cork is a foodie haven – try local specialties like spiced beef or Murphy’s stout, the city’s answer to Guinness), or perhaps catch some live music at Sin É, a famous traditional pub. If you’re interested in history, an early evening stop at St. Anne’s Church, Shandon to ring the church bells is fun (the church offers visitors the chance to ring its bells and enjoy a panorama from the tower). But no strenuous plans – tomorrow brings more exploration. Rest well in Cork.

(Note: If time permits today or you have particular interest, we could also include Cahir Castle in the late morning – a very well-preserved fortress on the River Suir about 20 minutes from Cashel. It’s one of Ireland’s largest castles and was nearly impregnable in its day. However, doing Cashel, Cahir, and Blarney all in one day can be tight, so we normally prioritize Cashel and Blarney. If castles are life, we can attempt all three by starting extra early!)

Day 4: Limerick History & Bunratty Banquet (Overnight in Limerick or County Clare)

Distance & Drive Time: ~120 km, ~2 hours driving (Cork to Bunratty ~100 km via Limerick).

Route: Cork → Limerick City (optional) → Bunratty (Co. Clare, near Limerick) → Ennis or Limerick for overnight.

This morning we leave Cork and travel north-west toward County Clare. Our path takes us through Limerick City, straddling the River Shannon. Depending on your interest, we can stop in Limerick to see:

• King John’s Castle (Limerick): An imposing 13th-century castle on King’s Island in the heart of Limerick, with massive round bastions. It was built in 1200 by King John (of Magna Carta fame) and has an excellent interactive museum on medieval Limerick and the sieges the castle endured (particularly during the 1690s Jacobite wars). You can walk the curtain walls and enjoy views over the Shannon. King John’s is one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Europe. If you’re keen on military history, this is a great stop. Afterward, a short city tour can show you St. Mary’s Cathedral (1168) and the Treaty Stone (where the 1691 Treaty of Limerick was signed).

If castle-fatigue is setting in or time is tight, we may opt to skip Limerick City in-depth and instead head straight to Bunratty, which lies just 15 minutes beyond Limerick, in County Clare.

• Bunratty Castle & Folk Park: By early afternoon, arrive at one of Ireland’s most family-friendly and famous castle experiences. Bunratty Castle, built in 1425 and lovingly restored in the 1950s, is perhaps the most complete and furnished medieval castle in the country. As you approach, you’ll see its stout towers rising above the thatched cottages of the adjoining Folk Park. We’ll tour the castle interior first: from the Great Hall filled with 15th-century furnishings and tapestries to the spooky dungeon and gentle echo of harp music in an upper chamber (often there’s someone playing period music). Bunratty’s rooms are richly appointed, giving a real sense of noble life in late medieval Ireland under the O’Briens of Thomond who ruled here.

After exploring the castle, step outside into Bunratty Folk Park, a living history village spread over 26 acres. It’s a delightful plunge into 19th-century Irish life. There’s an entire village street recreated with pub, schoolhouse, printshop, and grocery, plus farmhouses from different regions (Connemara fisherman’s cottage with thatch, a landlord’s opulent house, etc.). Costumed villagers may greet you (“Dia dhuit” – hello in Irish) and demonstrate traditional tasks: baking griddle bread, weaving baskets, tending animals. You’re free to wander, pet the Irish wolfhounds that often lounge near one house, or indulge at the old sweet shop. If time permits, we can enjoy a pint of ale or a cup of tea at Mac’s Pub in the folk park – a genuine pub building from 1800s relocated here.

Evening – Medieval Banquet (optional): Bunratty Castle is renowned for its legendary Medieval Banquet experience, held year-round in the castle’s banquet hall after closing hours (typically around 5:30 or 8:30 PM sittings). If you choose this add-on, you’ll be in for a treat: costumed hosts (the “Earl” and “Lady” of Bunratty) welcome you with honey mead in the Great Hall, musicians play harp and fiddle, and then a four-course meal is served by period-dressed staff – all by candlelight in the castle! Expect hearty fare like spare ribs, root vegetable soup (sipped from bowls – no forks, in true medieval style!), chicken or pork, and a dessert, along with wine. Throughout, you’re serenaded with traditional songs and instrumental pieces, and maybe even a toast in Irish Gaelic. It’s a fun, immersive evening that transports you back centuries within the very castle walls. Many guests say it’s a highlight of their trip. (If the banquet doesn’t appeal, we can instead dine at the adjacent Durty Nelly’s – a famous 1620 pub known for its charm and Irish pub grub – or any restaurant of your choosing). After dinner, we head to our nearby accommodation. Depending on your preference, we can stay in the Bunratty/Ennis area of County Clare (quiet countryside, perhaps at a cozy country hotel or B&B) or in Limerick City (to experience the city nightlife). Ennis is a quaint option – a small town known for traditional music, if you still have energy for a pub session. Limerick offers theaters, pubs, and riverside walks. Either way, you’ll drift to sleep dreaming of kings and castles. Tomorrow, get ready for some of Ireland’s most breathtaking natural scenery on the way to Galway.

Day 5: Cliffs of Moher & a Castle by the Bay – To Galway (Overnight in Galway)

Distance & Drive Time: ~160 km, ~3.5 hours driving (Bunratty to Cliffs: 70 km, Cliffs to Dunguaire: ~60 km, Dunguaire to Galway: 25 km).

Route: Bunratty/Ennis → Cliffs of Moher (Co. Clare) → The Burren & Kinvara (Co. Galway) → Galway City.

Today blends natural and historical marvels. We’ll traverse County Clare’s Atlantic coast to witness the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher, then cross into County Galway via the unique limestone landscape of The Burren, visiting Dunguaire Castle en route to the vibrant city of Galway.

We set off from Bunratty/Ennis in the morning, heading west through Ennistymon towards the cliffs (about 1.5 hours drive). Watch the scenery change from green pastures to windswept coastline. Keep your camera handy, as this is part of the famous Wild Atlantic Way.

• Cliffs of Moher: Arriving mid-morning (to beat some crowds if we can), you’ll feel the brisk Atlantic air and hear seabirds long before seeing the cliffs. Then, suddenly, they appear: 8 km of sheer cliffs dropping 214 meters (700 feet) into the crashing ocean. The sight is jaw-dropping – truly one of the world’s great coastal views. We’ll walk the safe viewing paths to the main overlooks. To the south, you might spot Hag’s Head (the cliffs’ southern end) and to the north, the cliffs reach their highest near O’Brien’s Tower (a 19th-century stone tower built as a viewing point). On a clear day, gaze out to the Aran Islands across the bay, or even the mountains of Connemara to the north. The visitor center (built cleverly into the hillside to minimize visual impact) has informative exhibits on geology, wildlife (this is a haven for puffins, razorbills, and other seabirds in nesting season), and folklore of the area. Feel free to wander at your leisure – perhaps walk up to O’Brien’s Tower for an even higher vantage (small additional fee to climb the tower, optional). Be assured, your guide will keep you entertained with local legends – like the tale of an unusual songwriting contest where the cliffs “sang” (a story from an old Irish myth), or actual facts like what exactly causes that banding in the cliff face (answer: layers of Namurian shale and sandstone deposited over 300 million years ago when this area was a prehistoric seabed).

After experiencing the raw power of the Wild Atlantic, we continue our journey. The drive from the cliffs toward Galway takes us through The Burren, a vast limestone plateau that looks like a lunar landscape. We’ll pass stone fences and perhaps see herds of goats or the famous Burren wildflowers (in spring, rare alpine and Mediterranean plants bloom in the grikes of the karst rock). We can make a quick photo stop at Burren National Park viewpoint or at Poulnabrone Dolmen (a striking 5,000-year-old portal tomb amidst the grey rocks).

Crossing into County Galway, green fields reappear. Soon we reach the quaint seaside village of Kinvara, home to:

• Dunguaire Castle: A postcard-perfect 16th-century tower house on the shores of Galway Bay. Dunguaire Castle is small but beautifully restored, with a curtain wall and a simple tower keep rising from a tidal shore. It’s famously one of the most photographed castles in Ireland – and you’ll immediately see why. We’ll stop for a visit (the castle courtyard is open year-round; interior access is seasonal, but in summer you can go inside to see some furnished chambers and info panels). Named after the ancient chieftain Guaire, this castle has become associated with Ireland’s literary revival: in the 1920s it was owned by poet Oliver St. John Gogarty who hosted literary giants like W.B. Yeats and George Bernard Shaw here. Your guide will share any colorful stories or poems connected to Dunguaire. Climb the spiral steps to the top for a wonderful view over Kinvara Bay – where local fishermen still gather seaweed and oysters. The castle also hosts its own medieval banquets in summer evenings (similar concept to Bunratty’s, though smaller scale). After exploring, enjoy a leisurely break – maybe pop into Dunguaire’s tiny gift shop or take photos of its reflection on the water.

From Kinvara, it’s only 30 minutes along the coast road to Galway City. We should arrive by late afternoon. Galway is a vibrant artsy city known for its cobbled streets, live music, and youthful energy (thanks to a big student population). Our hotel will be downtown, so you can step right out into the action. After checking in, we’ll do a short orientation walk if you like: see Eyre Square (central green), stroll down Shop Street (pedestrianized main lane often with buskers performing), and perhaps visit the Spanish Arch by the quay. Galway has a rich medieval heritage too – remnants of its old walls, and Lynch’s Castle (actually a 16th-c. stone townhouse now a bank).

Your evening is free in Galway. This city is famous for its traditional music scene – dozens of pubs have live “trad” sessions nightly. Some favorites: Tig Cóilí or Crane Bar for authentic music, or try The Quays for a mix of tourists and locals in a multi-level pub with church-like interior decor. Seafood is excellent here (Galway Bay’s oysters are renowned – if you like shellfish, try some fresh oysters with a pint of Guinness, a classic combo!). For dinner, perhaps indulge in fish and chips at McDonagh’s or a more upscale meal at a seafood bistro – your guide can point you in the right direction based on your cravings. Galway is compact and safe to walk, so feel the friendly buzz as street performers might be dancing or singing on the Latin Quarter’s narrow lanes. Rest whenever you’re ready – tomorrow morning, we strike out for Northern Ireland, so get a good night’s sleep (or enjoy that extra pint, knowing the drive is on us!).

Day 6: Northward Bound – From Galway to Giant’s Causeway Country (Overnight in Belfast)

Distance & Drive Time: ~320 km, ~5.5 hours driving (Galway→Donegal ~200 km, Donegal→Dunluce ~120 km, Dunluce→Belfast ~95 km). This is the longest travel day, broken up by stops.

Route: Galway → Sligo (briefly) → Donegal Town (Co. Donegal) → Causeway Coast (Co. Antrim, Northern Ireland) → Belfast.

Today is a grand cross-country journey taking us from Ireland’s west coast all the way to the northeast corner in Northern Ireland. We’ll traverse scenic parts of counties Mayo/Sligo and Donegal (in the Republic) before crossing the border into Northern Ireland (part of the UK) to hit one of the most dramatic castles yet – Dunluce – and then on to bustling Belfast. It’s a day of rugged landscapes and rich history. (We’ll start a bit earlier this morning to comfortably fit everything in.)

Leaving Galway after breakfast, we head north on the N17 (cue the song “N17” by the Saw Doctors, an Irish classic about this road – your guide might play it). We pass market towns like Tuam and Knock (an important Catholic pilgrimage site) and catch views of Mayo’s plains and distant mountains. Continuing into County Sligo, you’ll see the striking flat-topped Benbulben Mountain on the horizon, part of the Dartry range – a favorite subject of poet W.B. Yeats, who is buried nearby.

By late morning, we enter County Donegal, renowned for its wild beauty. We’ll stop in Donegal Town, a charming town at the mouth of the River Eske, for a leg stretch and early lunch. Here we can visit:

• Donegal Castle: A smaller yet picturesque castle right in the town center, built by the O’Donnell chieftains around 1474. It’s a fortified tower house and Jacobean manor combo, cozily restored with period furniture. The castle offers insight into Gaelic lordship lifestyles. We can do a quick self-guided tour (30 minutes) if interested, or simply admire it from outside while wandering the town square known as The Diamond. Donegal Town is also good for picking up tweed handicrafts or a quick tea. We suggest grabbing a bite at the Olde Castle Bar or Magee’s Café – perhaps a bowl of chowder or fish and chips, as this might be our main lunch stop today.

Now we continue northeast, crossing into Northern Ireland near Derry/Londonderry (we’ll bypass central Derry on this itinerary due to time, but note its historic city walls on the horizon as we pass – the only fully intact city walls in Ireland). The signage will subtly change – distances in miles now, and speed limits in mph – but otherwise the border is open and hardly noticeable.

We drive through the rolling farmland of County Londonderry into County Antrim. Soon we hit the beautiful Causeway Coastal Route near Coleraine, and a few miles later approach the village of Portrush and Dunluce Castle on the Antrim Coast:

• Dunluce Castle: Prepare to be wowed – Dunluce is a dramatic clifftop castle ruin, perched on a basalt crag high above the sea, with waves crashing in caverns below. Dating back to the 14th–17th centuries, it was the stronghold of the MacDonnell clan. We access it via a bridge from the mainland (once a drawbridge). As you wander these roofless ruins, imagine the grandeur that once was: the kitchens, lodgings, and banqueting hall that clung to these cliffs. In 1639, legend has it, disaster struck here – the castle’s kitchen and dinner guests plunged into the sea when the cliff under it gave way during a storm! (Archaeology suggests part of the castle did indeed collapse; we’ll point out the gap.) Dunluce’s wild history includes shipwrecks too – the Spanish Armada ship Girona sank nearby in 1588, and some of its treasure was found by the castle’s lord. The setting is so atmospheric that it inspired CS Lewis’s fictional Cair Paravel in Narnia, and served as a filming location for Game of Thrones (as the seat of House Greyjoy). Take your time exploring the nooks – we’ll make sure you find the “Mermaid’s Cave,” a sea cave far below accessed by steps (if tides allow) and the remnants of the cobbled courtyard.

After filling our senses (and memory cards) at Dunluce, we have a relatively short drive to Belfast (about 1 hour east via highway). If time and daylight permit, we could make a brief detour to see the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway (those famous hexagonal basalt columns) just 5 minutes from Dunluce – though that can add an hour; we leave it optional if you’re keen (since we already saw cliffs, another geological wonder could be a plus). Otherwise, we’ll head on toward Belfast so we arrive before it gets too late. If interested in whiskey, a 10-minute stop at Bushmills Distillery shop (the oldest licensed distillery, est. 1608) is possible as we pass through Bushmills town – maybe pick up a bottle as a souvenir.

Reaching Belfast City, you’ll notice the urban energy and perhaps the famous Harland & Wolff crane “Samson and Goliath” on the skyline (remnants of the shipyard that built the Titanic). We check into our Belfast hotel, centrally located. This evening, enjoy the Northern Irish capital’s hospitality. There are superb eateries around the Cathedral Quarter and Linen Quarter – from traditional pub grub at the Crown Liquor Saloon (a must-see Victorian pub) to contemporary cuisine at Ox or Mourne Seafood. If you still have the appetite for exploration, you might take a black cab tour tonight to see Belfast’s famous political murals illuminated, or simply relax with a pint of Belfast’s own Harp Lager. You’ve traveled a long road today, from Atlantic to Irish Sea – bravo! Tomorrow, we’ll cap off with some Belfast highlights and one more castle before saying slán.

(Note: If you wanted to spend more time on the Antrim Coast or felt the drive was too much in one day, we could have split it – e.g., by overnighting in Derry or Coleraine instead. But given the tour length, we packed it in. Rest assured, it’s a rewarding day. We include plenty of restroom/snack stops to stay fresh.)

Day 7: Belfast City and Carrickfergus Castle – Farewell Ireland

Distance & Drive Time: ~200 km, ~2.5 hours driving (Belfast to Carrickfergus 18 km; Carrickfergus to Dublin ~180 km).

Route: Belfast → Carrickfergus (Co. Antrim) → Dublin via M1 motorway.

Your final day begins in Belfast, a city transformed from its troubled past into a vibrant cultural hub. In the morning, we’ll take a brief panoramic tour of Belfast’s highlights (if you’re interested and time allows): driving by City Hall (an impressive 1906 Edwardian building in the city center), the Albert Memorial Clock (Belfast’s leaning clock tower, think a mini “Big Ben”), and through the shipyard area to see the towering yellow cranes and the slipways where RMS Titanic was built. We won’t have time for the full Titanic Experience museum on this tour (that is a 2+ hour visit usually), but we will point out the striking Titanic Belfast building and the historic Harland & Wolff offices.

Then we head out of Belfast just 20 minutes north along the shore of Belfast Lough to visit our final castle:

• Carrickfergus Castle: Sitting proudly on the waterfront of a historic harbor town, Carrickfergus is one of the best-preserved Norman castles in Ireland. Built in 1177 by the Anglo-Norman knight John de Courcy (who conquered much of Ulster), it has withstood sieges from the 1200s right up to WW2 (when it was used as an air-raid shelter!). Approaching the castle over a now-fixed bridge, you’ll see its formidable gatehouse and thick basalt walls. We’ll explore the outer courtyard with cannons trained at the sea (a nod to its later use as an artillery fort by the British), the massive keep (one of the earliest parts, still intact), and the mid-level halls which house exhibits about the castle’s military history. Carrickfergus was a strategic stronghold – it was besieged by the Scots, Irish, English, even the French (who captured it briefly in 1760). In fact, when William of Orange arrived in 1690 on his way to the Battle of the Boyne, he landed at Carrickfergus. Inside, you’ll see replicas of medieval weapons, life-size figures of Norman soldiers, and maybe try on a Norman helmet. The castle’s location is scenic – waves lapping at its foundation and views across the Lough to County Down. It’s not hard to imagine medieval knights patrolling its battlements or the flash of cannons repelling an invasion.

After Carrickfergus, it’s time to point our trusty coach south and journey back to Dublin (we’ll drive back through Belfast and then the M1 highway). Relax on the approximately 2-hour drive – perhaps trade photos with your fellow travelers or catch a nap. Your guide can chat about any remaining curiosities you have or play soft Irish music as a gentle soundtrack for the last leg. We’ll cross the border once more into Ireland (EU) near Newry; you might not even notice except for a sign saying “Welcome to Ireland” – a reminder of how travel has eased with the peace process.

Approaching Dublin by mid-late afternoon, you’ll recognize landmarks from a week ago and realize how many roads we traveled since then! We’ll drop you off at your Dublin hotel or the airport as needed (typically by ~4:00–5:00 PM). As you say your fond goodbyes to your driver-guide, you depart not just with souvenirs but with a head full of stories – of brave knights and cunning earls, of stone giants by the sea and cheerful nights in pub snug corners, of the many shades of green countryside and the misty blues of the Atlantic.Tour Ends – Slán go fóill (goodbye for now) and safe travels! We hope this castles journey has made you fall in love with Ireland’s rich heritage. Go n-éirí an bóthar leat – may the road rise up to meet you – until your next adventure on the Emerald Isle.