rick steves travel in ireland

Rick Steves' Ideal Ireland Itinerary Hits All The Must-Visit Destinations

If anyone is qualified to curate the perfect, all-inclusive tour of Ireland, it's Rick Steves . The travel expert, author, and TV personality is a specialist when it comes to traversing Europe's diverse cityscapes and backcountry, and Ireland is no exception. According to Irish Central , Ireland is one of the world's top five best countries to visit, and for a good reason! With so many coveted cities and coastal escapes, it can be hard to squeeze in the best of this country in the short amount of vacation time we have to spend. Steve's personalized itinerary doesn't skip out on any of Ireland's trendy locations, crafty pubs, seaside cities, and charming historical sites. Kinsale, the Dingle peninsula, the Aran Islands, Galway, and Belfast are all part of this legendary 14-day excursion through the Irish countryside and picturesque coastlines.

The journey begins in the heart of Dublin, one of Ireland's most fascinating cities. From there, travelers will move through Killarney National Park to the northern tip of Ireland and ending in Belfast. This tour is available from Spring until Fall, so travelers can budget for the time of year that works best with their schedule. Spring and Fall tend to be the best times to travel to this nation, given the reduced crowds in the shoulder seasons. Yet, Steves recommends summer because of the longer daylight hours, allowing you to pack in all the best sights, tastes, and smells. Fortunately, the Irish landscape is captivating year-round, with a fresh canvas of wild, untamed wilderness to explore.

Dublin and Kinsale

What better introduction to Ireland than beginning in the nation's capital? Day one of this tour educates travelers about the history of Ireland, from Viking raids to British slavery. Of course, members still have plenty of time to wander the city on their own agenda, taking in the wonder of this vibrant town. If you want the expert's opinion, Steves recommends perusing iconic promenades like O'Connell Street, Temple Bar, and 14 Henrietta Street, as well as historic sites like the 700-year-old Dublin Castle and the Chester Beatty Library, which houses intricate artifacts from Asia and medieval Europe.

The five-hour bus ride from Dublin to Kinsale directs travelers through sweeping emerald plains and medieval ruins that form part of Ireland's ecclesiastical heritage. Upon arriving in Kinsale on Ireland's southeast coast, guests will be enamored at this town's colorful streets and breathtaking harbor. According to Steves, Kinsale is the culinary capital of Ireland, so indulging in some of the city's local favorites is a necessity. Jim Edwards and the Whitehouse are two of his favorites for seafood!

Killarney National Park and Dingle

The rugged mountains and glistening lakes of Killarney National Park might just be one of the most enamoring sights along the entire tour. Embracing 24,710 acres, this national park is home to Ireland's largest forests and has become a designated Biosphere Reserve. The Mossy Woods, Old Kenmare Road, and Derricunnihy Church are just a few of the gems nestled inside this sacred preserve.

Taking the famous Slea Head Drive (Steve's pick for the most beautiful road in Ireland), journey through some of Ireland's most photogenic landscapes in the Great Blasket Centre, leading to the Dingle Peninsula. Situated on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way, this remote stretch of paradise has been coined as "the most beautiful place on earth," according to National Geographic. Creative energy runs wild on this peninsula, and Holden Leather Goods is a local artisan favorite run by a local creative. Given its flourishing dairy industry, high-quality products like milk and ice cream are ubiquitous on this coastline. Murphey's Ice Cream, in particular, delivers some of the best ice cream you'll ever taste, crafted from local dairy cows native to the region.

Moher and the Burren

On the road to Galway, stop in County Clare to walk atop the towering Cliffs of Moher. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, these mesmerizing bluffs are coated in a rich layer of greenery that contrasts beautifully with the aquamarine seawater. The spectacular views are met with a thriving music scene in Ennis, the leading city of County Clare. Less than an hour from Ennis in County Clare, The Burren possesses an unparalleled diversity of flora and fauna, according to Steves. The topography houses several unique indigenous species and rocky moonscapes that support its bountiful ecosystem. With a limestone-heavy topography, locals in The Burren engage in what they call the "Winterage, ” where cattle are turned out to graze during the wintertime, encouraging them to prepare fresh soil and foliage for spring life to bloom. Like many cities in Ireland, the warm, hospitable culture of The Burren is complemented by a strong agriculture scene, with a particularly famous history of producing smoked salmon.

Galway and the Connemara Countryside

When visiting the Aran Islands in County Galway, Steves recommends heading straight to Inishmore, the largest of these islands that's home to iconic landmarks such as the ancient Celtic fortress, Dun Aengus and several enchanting castles . Just up the coast from the Aran Islands is the unspoiled scenic vista of the Connemara countryside. Located on the northwestern corner of county Galway, it's a region untouched by human hands, its natural beauty preserved over the centuries. Lakes, rivers, woodlands, and meadows coalesce on the vast, open landscape. Given its stunning organic scenery, this region is rich in outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, cycling, and horseback riding. It was also the filming site for "The Quiet Man" in 1951. Some of the highlights Steves guides travelers through are Ashford Castle , the town of Cong, and Westport in County Mayo. Heading north on the backend of this trip, wander through the lush seaside resort town of Portrush, which is home to sandy golden beaches as well as the famous Dunluce Castle .

The Antrim Coast and Belfast

Steve's Irish tour concludes along the Antrim Coast and Belfast. According to Steves, this region of Ireland is famous for it's captivating imagery and rugged beauty that's grabbed the attention of iconic news outlets. Old Bushmills Distillery is a must-visit when in this Irish county, as it's the oldest distillery in the world! The main highlight of this coastal region is the Giant's Causeway, a series of basalt columns formed by volcanic activity more than 60 million years ago. What better way to close out a well-traveled road trip than in the historic town of Belfast? Fun fact — this is also the town where the famous Titanic ship was built, and the Titanic Belfast tour is not one to be missed! With a lively arts scene, make sure to check out some of the city's most famous murals before sitting down to dinner or drinks in an authentic Irish pub. After a group dinner, the last day of the tour is left in the hands of guests. Strolling through St. George's Market or touring the sacred halls of Belfast Castle are just two of the town's most coveted attractions that won't disappoint!

• Smaller Text Larger Text
• Home / 

Destination: Ireland

The book of kells — christ enthroned.

For me, one of the great joys of travel is having in-person encounters with great art — which I’ve collected in a book called Europe’s Top 100 Masterpieces . Here’s one of my favorites:

Jesus Christ sits on a throne and solemnly cradles something very important — a book, the holy word of God. He has a lush head of curly flaxen hair and a thoughtful expression. Seated under an arch, he’s surrounded by a labyrinth of colorful, intricately woven designs.

This illustration from an old Bible tells the story of Jesus. This particular drawing came right at the point in the story (Matthew 1:18) where this heavenly Jesus was about to be born as a humble mortal on earth.

It’s just one page of the remarkable 1,200-year-old gospels known as the Book of Kells. Perhaps the finest piece of art from the so-called Dark Ages, this book is a rare artifact from that troubled time.

It’s the year 800. The Roman empire has crumbled, leaving Europe in chaos. Vikings were raping and pillaging. The Christian faith — officially embraced during the last years of the empire — was now faltering, as Europe was reverting to its pagan and illiterate ways. Amid the turmoil, on the remote fringes of Europe, lived a band of scholarly Irish monks dedicated to tending the embers of civilization.

These monks toiled to preserve the word of God in the Book of Kells. They slaughtered 185 calves and dried the skins to make 680 cream-colored pages called vellum. Then the tonsured monks picked up their swan-quill pens and went to work. They meticulously wrote out the words in Latin, ornamented the letters with elaborate curlicues, and interspersed the text with full-page illustrations — creating this “illuminated” manuscript. The project was interrupted in 806 when Vikings savagely pillaged the monastery and killed 68 monks. But the survivors fled to the Abbey of Kells (near Dublin) and finished their precious Bible.

Christ Enthroned is just one page — 1/680 th — of this wondrous book. On closer inspection, the page’s incredible detail-work comes alive. To either side of Christ are two mysterious men holding robes, and two grotesque-looking angels, with their wings folded in front. Flanking Christ’s head are peacocks (symbols of Christ’s resurrection), with their feet tangled in vines (symbols of his Israelite roots). Admittedly, Christ is not terribly realistic: He poses stiffly, like a Byzantine icon, with almond eyes, weirdly placed ears, and E.T. fingers.

The true beauty lies in the intricate designs. It’s a jungle of spirals, swirls, and intertwined snakes — yes, those are snakes, with their little heads emerging here and there. The monks mixed Christian symbols (the cross, peacock, vines) with pagan Celtic motifs of the world around them (circles, spirals, and interwoven patterns). It’s all done in vivid colors — blue, purple, red, green, yellow, and black — meticulously etched with a quill pen. Of the book’s 680 pages, only two have no decoration.

As Christianity regained its footing in Europe, monasteries everywhere began creating similar monk-uscripts — though few as sumptuous as the Book of Kells. In 1455, Johann Gutenberg invented the printing press, books became mass-produced…and thousands of monks were freed from being the scribes of civilization.

Daily Dose of Europe: Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula — The Next Parish Over Is Boston 

Spending St. Patrick’s Day stuck in my house makes me very nostalgic for many wonderful visits to Ireland. And one of my favorite corners of the Emerald Isle is the dreamy Dingle Peninsula.

Because of the coronavirus, Europe is effectively off-limits to American travelers for the next few weeks (and likely longer). But travel dreams are immune to any virus. During these challenging times, I believe a daily dose of travel dreaming can actually be good medicine. Here’s another one of my very favorite travel dreams-come-true…a reminder of what’s waiting for you in Europe on the other end of this crisis.

I once met an elfish, black-clad old man in the little town of Ventry, on Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula. When I asked if he was born here, he paused, breathed deeply, and said, “No, ’twas about five miles down the road.”

I asked him if he had lived here all his life.

He answered, “Not yet.”

When I told him where I was from, a faraway smile filled his eyes as he looked out to sea and muttered, “Aye, the shores of Americay.”

Dingle Peninsula gives the traveler Ireland in the extreme. It feels so traditionally Irish because it’s part of a Gaeltacht, a region where the government subsidizes the survival of the Irish language and culture. While English is everywhere, the signs, songs, and chitchat are in Gaelic. This sparse but lush peninsula marks the westernmost point in Ireland. Residents are fond of gazing out at the Atlantic and saying with a sigh, “Ahh, the next parish over is Boston.”

Fishing once dominated Dingle, but tourists and moviemakers are well onto the region now. Several films feature the peninsula, including  Ryan’s Daughter  and  Far and Away . Its offshore islands were the hideout of an aging Luke Skywalker in the most recent Star Wars trilogy. What had been a trickle of visitors has surged into a flood as word of Dingle’s musical, historical, gastronomical, and scenic charms spread.

About 30 miles around, the peninsula is just the right size for a daylong driving or cycling tour. Hopping on a bike, I assess the gathering storm clouds and zip up my parka. In Ireland, good and bad weather blow by in a steady meteorological parade. A little rain will just add to the experience. Circling these roads is like a trip through an open-air museum. The landscape is littered with a half-million sheep and dozens of monuments left behind by Bronze Age settlers, Dark Age monks, English landlords, and even Hollywood directors.

In the darkest depths of the Dark Ages, when literate life almost died in Europe, peace-loving, scholarly monks fled the chaos of the Continent and its barbarian raids. Sailing to this drizzly fringe of the known world, they lived out their monastic lives in lonely stone igloos or “beehive huts” that I pass on my ride.

Rounding Slea Head, the point in Europe closest to America, the rugged coastline offers smashing views of deadly black-rock cliffs. The crashing surf races in like white stallions.

I ponder the highest fields, untouched since the planting of 1845, when the potatoes rotted in the ground. The vertical ridges of those bleak potato beds are still visible — a barren and godforsaken place. That year’s Great Potato Famine eventually, through starvation or emigration, cut Ireland’s population by a quarter.

I stop to explore the Gallarus Oratory, a stone chapel dating from AD 700 that’s one of Ireland’s best-preserved early Christian monuments. Its shape is reminiscent of an upturned boat. Finding shelter inside as a furious wind hurls rain against its walls, I imagine 13 centuries of travelers and pilgrims standing where I am, also thankful for these watertight dry-stone walls.

When the squall blows over, I continue up the rugged one-lane road from the oratory to the crest of the hill, then coast back into Dingle town — hungry, thirsty, and ready for a pub crawl.

Of the peninsula’s 10,000 residents, 1,500 live in Dingle town. Its few streets, lined with ramshackle but gaily painted shops and pubs, run up from a rain-stung harbor. During the day, teenagers — already working on ruddy beer-glow cheeks — roll kegs up the streets and into the pubs in preparation for another tin-whistle music night. “Pub” is short for “public house.” A convivial mix of good  craic  (that’s the art of conversation, pronounced “crack”) and local beer on tap complements the music. People are there to have a good time and visitors from far away are considered a plus.

In Dingle, there’s live music most nights in half a dozen pubs. There’s never a cover charge. Just buy a beer and make yourself at home. The Small Bridge Bar and O’Flaherty’s are the most famous for their atmosphere and devotion to traditional Irish music. But tonight — and most nights — I make a point to wander the town and follow my ears. Traditional music is alive and popular in Ireland. A “session” is when musical friends (and strangers who become friends) gather and jam. There’s generally a fiddle, flute or tin whistle, guitar,  bodhrán  (goat-skin drum), and maybe an accordion.

I follow the music into a pub and order a pint. The music churns intensely, the group joyfully raising each other up one at a time with solos. Sipping from their mugs, they skillfully maintain a faint but steady buzz. The drummer dodges the fiddler’s playful bow. The floor on the musicians’ platform is stomped paint-free and barmaids scurry through the commotion, gathering towers of empty, cream-crusted glasses. With knees up and heads down, the music goes round and round. Making myself right at home, I “play the boot” (tap my foot) under the table in time with the music. When the chemistry is right, live music in a pub is one of the great Irish experiences.

The Irish like to say that in a pub, you’re a guest on your first night; after that, you’re a regular. That’s certainly true in Dingle…the next parish over from Boston.

(This story is excerpted from my upcoming book, For the Love of Europe — collecting 100 of my favorite memories from a lifetime of European travel, coming out in July. It’s available for pre-order .)

My Favorite Writers? Other Travelers

Who are my favorite writers? Other travelers. Just regular people who become great writers by traveling well and sharing their feelings and discoveries thoughtfully.

I’m home for a week before continuing my 2019 travels, and I’ve been catching up on my mail. I’ve been inspired by many of the emails I’ve read, such as this one from Don, who shared how — even when he found himself in a tourist trap — he was able to dig deep and connect with the locals. Thanks for the trip report, Don. Keep on travelin’.

Hiya Rick, wherever you are. I am ten days and many pints in on a 30-day tour of Ireland, with no car (never learned to drive) and nothing but your guidebook to lead me. So far it’s been great following your advice…Dublin, Kilkenny, Cashel, Kinsale, (all surprisingly easy to connect without a car). But now I find myself spending a night in Killarney–for which your book offers the sorry traveler who lands there no tips and only pity. Believe me, it was out of necessity. And as I looked for a pub this evening I thought, “Oh, I see what Rick means”. Even though Kinsale was totally overrun with Yanks, it was nothing like this. If Disneyland had an Ireland, it would be modelled on Killarney. Okay…what to do? I’ve been to John Cleere’s Pub in Kilkenny and I’m headed for Dingel next, so I don’t need live music. I veer off to the side streets in search of somwhere real and decided to trade music for sports. First pub I find that fits the bill is called Dan Linehan’s. Sure enough, here’s where the locals are. You know you’re in the right place when there are betting slips on the bar, next to the beer mats. Kids next to me say hi and before you know it one tells the tender, “Another for us, please. And whatever the American is drinking”. After they leave I wander some more and across the road from the chippie they recommended (great chips), I sniff out another place–The Luane. It’s not packed with Americans…in fact there’s not even one. I order a pint and actually get mistaken for a local. This guy was surprised when I said, “Me? A local? I just got here this morning.”. So, my point is…even in Killarney, it’s possible for guys like us to have a good time. Just gotta find the back door. God bless, Don

A Visit to St. George’s Market, Belfast

It was a rainy day on the Emerald Isle, and I was somewhere I had never been before: St. George’s Market . Join me and my guide Jackie there now in this little clip.

Here’s how I wrote this place up for our Rick Steves Ireland guidebook :

St. George’s Market was the largest covered Victorian produce market in Ireland. Today, the farmers are gone and everyone else, it seems, has moved in. Three days a week (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, about 9:00-15:00), St. George’s Market becomes a thriving artisan, crafts and flea market with a few fish and produce stalls to round things out. With a diverse array of street food and homemade goodies added to the mix, it’s a fun place for lunch (5 blocks east of City Hall, at the corner of Oxford and East Bridge streets, tel. 028/9043-5704).

A Memorial Garden in Belfast

I have always believed that no trip to the Emerald Isle is complete without a visit to Northern Ireland. And I recently spent a few days there, after a stop in Dublin, researching the next edition of our Rick Steves Ireland guidebook .

In Belfast, I spent a fascinating 90 minutes with Tucker, a guide from Cab Tours Belfast — a taxi tour company that is made up of both Catholic and Protestant driver guides who are committed to giving unbiased, dual-narrative tours. On Bombay Street, we stopped at the Clonard Martyrs Memorial Garden. Join us there now.

Best of Ireland in 14 Days Tour

Member Savings

Sign in  to see which companies give additional savings to Travelstride Members (it’s free)

• Dublin, learning about its rich history from the days of Viking raids
• Enjoy scenic drive along the forests, mountains, and lakes of Killarney National Park
• Experience walk along the local paths and lanes, hire a bicycle and pedal the scenic 30-mile Dingle Loop
• Enjoying the beautiful Irish countryside
• Enjoy dramatic Cliffs of Moher, where you'll find yourself leaning into the wind

What's this trip about?

Compare to similar trips.

Northern & Southern Ireland

Country Roads of Ireland - End Dublin, Small Group, Summer End Dublin Small Group

Ireland & Scotland in 15 days - Stunning Ireland & The Highlands - Charm

The Ultimate Tour

Ireland Uncovered

Travel themes.

• Hiking & Walking
• National Parks
• Nature & Wildlife

Destinations

• United Kingdom

Attractions

• Dingle Peninsula
• Educational/ learning
• Historic sightseeing
• Land expedition
• Short Cruise

Trip includes

• A small, friendly group of 24–28 people — half the size of most tour groups
• Full-time services of a professional Rick Steves guide and local experts who will make the fascinating history, art, and culture of Ireland come alive for you
• All tours and admissions — at no extra cost — covering at least 29 group sightseeing events, Dublin walking tour, Trinity College, Book of Kells, Kilmainham Gaol, Rock of Cashel, Kinsale walking tour, Charles Fort tour, Sheep farm tour, Crystal cutting demonstration, Dingle's Slea Head drive, Great Blasket Centre, Gallarus Oratory, Irish musical evening, Burren nature walk, Cliffs of Moher, Boat ride to Aran Islands (weather permitting), Aran Islands minibus tour, Dun Aengus fort, Connemara drive, Cong visit, Ashford Castle School of Falconry, Drumcliff visit, Derry coach and walking tour, Dunluce Castle, Giant's Causeway, Old Bushmills Distillery tour, Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge (weather & season permitting), Guided tour of Belfast, Titanic Belfast…and more
• All group transportation from Dublin to Belfast
• 13 nights' accommodations in memorable, centrally located hotels and B&Bs
• All breakfasts and half your dinners
• All tips for guides and driver
• Rick Steves Travel Store credit to use toward guidebooks for your trip
• Guaranteed tour price, locked in the moment you make your deposit
• Optional single supplements — this tour has a limited number of private rooms for solo travelers for an additional fee
• Tour alum discount of $50 for each tour you've taken prior to 2017
• 50% discount on a consulting appointment with our in-house experts to assist with your pre- or post-tour travel plans
• Flexibility should you need to transfer, or cancel/interrupt your tour
• Fine print: You are responsible for the cost of your drinks and free-time sightseeing

View Similar Trips

Delve Deep: Britain & Ireland 2022

Iconic Ireland

Taste of Scotland & Ireland

The Lake District Explorer - 3 Day Tour From London

Oxford to Bath Cycle

Meet your guide and fellow tour members at our hotel at 5 p.m. After a group meeting, we'll enjoy a "Welcome to Ireland" dinner together, followed by an orientation walk through the heart of Dublin. Sleep in Dublin (2 nights). No bus. Walking: light.

Today is all yours...free on the Dingle Peninsula. Take a long walk along the local paths and lanes, hire a bicycle and pedal the scenic 30-mile Dingle Loop, sail for the day to the rugged Blasket Islands, or simply savor your generous Irish breakfast and hang out in town. No bus. Walking: light to strenuous (your choice).

We'll seamlessly cross into Northern Ireland today. In Derry, a local guide will take us on a tour of the town, sharing stories about "The Troubles" and the infamous "Bloody Sunday" of 1972. Then we'll drive on to the nostalgic seaside resort of Portrush, where we'll have dinner together and sleep (2 nights). Bus: 5 hrs. Walking: moderate.

Breakfast is provided, but there are no group activities today. You can fly out of Belfast or Dublin's handy airports, or take the ferry to Wales for further adventures in the British Isles. Your guide will help you with any post-tour planning, leaving you well prepared for the road ahead. Slán leat!

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:.

• You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
• Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics

Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Rick Steves .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Rick Steves Reviews & Ratings

Longtime Travelers

Terrible Covid Experience

We are in Ireland now, traveling with Rick Steves Tours and a group of 27. Two days ago a member of the group tested positive for Covid, and we had all been exposed....

Other Rick Steves Reviews

This is about the store not the tours.

We purchased two backpacks from Rick Steves Europe. One of them arrived damaged and unusable. Their website says that you must contact them if you receive damaged me...

A Perfect 10

Sicily is Pure Eye Candy :: Will Leave You Wanting More :: Seamless Way To Travel The Island

A perfect "10" for the Rick Steves' Best of Sicily 11-Day Tour. My 1st tour with any company. This was a perfect combination of scheduled time and free time .. with ...

See all Other Rick Steves reviews

Travelers also viewed

London to Venice Adventure Tour

Antarctic Wildlife Adventure: Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica

Thailand (North & Central): See & Experience it ALL in 10 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

Best of Vietnam Tour 11 days

9 Days Adventure Mt. Kilimanjaro Trekking-The Lemosho Route

Tour operator, rick steves.

Our mission is to inspire, inform and equip Americans to have European trips that are fun, affordable and culturally broadening. We value travel as a powerful way to better understand and contribute to the world in which we live. We strive to keep our own travel style, our world outlook and our business practices consistent with these values.

About Rick Steves

Guidebook author and travel TV host Rick Steves is America's most respected authority on European travel. Rick took his first trip to Europe in 1969, visiting piano factories with his father, a piano importer. As an 18-year-old, Rick began traveling on his own, funding his trips by teaching piano lessons. In 1976, he started his business, Rick Steves' Europe, which has grown from a one-man operation to a company with a staff of 80 full-time, well-travelled employees at his headquarters in Washington state. There he produces more than 50 guidebooks on European travel, America's most popular travel series on public television, a weekly hour-long national public radio show, a weekly syndicated column, and free travel information available through his travel center and website. Rick Steves' Europe also runs a successful European tour program. Rick Steves lives and works in his hometown of Edmonds, Washington. His office window overlooks his old junior high school.

--We research and write European guidebooks, produce a public television series and a public radio show

--We organize and lead energetic tours throughout Europe

--We sell select travel bags, guidebooks, maps, DVDs, and other travelers' supplies

--We offer travel consulting and trip planning services

--We teach do-it-yourself travel seminars

--We provide a wealth of free information about travel in Europe via our Travel Center and Website

--We travel a lot

What we don't do

--We are not travel agents, so we don't book flights, hotels, or rental cars

Why Travelstride

Find your perfect trip, travel confidently.

Cancellations and refunds: Your tour deposit is 100% refundable for 30 days from the date it is received, unless noted otherwise below. After 30 days your deposit becomes nonrefundable, and will be forfeited should you decide to cancel your reservation. Deposits made 60–90 days before a tour departs become nonrefundable on the final payment due date. If you book a tour less than 60 days before its departure date, the entire tour cost becomes non-refundable after 7 days.

Become a member

• Save up to $700 per person
• Access members-only specials
• Personalize trip recommendations

Tour Companies

Things to do, itineraries.

Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime Try Prime and start saving today with fast, free delivery

Amazon Prime includes:

Fast, FREE Delivery is available to Prime members. To join, select "Try Amazon Prime and start saving today with Fast, FREE Delivery" below the Add to Cart button.

• Cardmembers earn 5% Back at Amazon.com with a Prime Credit Card.
• Unlimited Free Two-Day Delivery
• Streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with limited ads on Prime Video.
• A Kindle book to borrow for free each month - with no due dates
• Listen to over 2 million songs and hundreds of playlists
• Unlimited photo storage with anywhere access

Important:  Your credit card will NOT be charged when you start your free trial or if you cancel during the trial period. If you're happy with Amazon Prime, do nothing. At the end of the free trial, your membership will automatically upgrade to a monthly membership.

Buy new: $18.99

Return this item for free.

Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges

• Go to your orders and start the return
• Select the return method

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required .

Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.

Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Follow the author

Rick Steves Ireland (Travel Guide) Paperback – Folded Map, December 13, 2022

Purchase options and add-ons.

• Fully updated, comprehensive coverage for planning a multi-week trip through Ireland
• Rick's strategic advice on how to get the most of your time and money, with rankings of his must-see favorites
• Top sights and hidden gems, from the Rock of Cashel and the Ring of Kerry to distilleries making whiskey with hundred-year-old recipes
• How to connect with local culture: Hoist a pint at the corner pub, enjoy traditional fiddle music, and jump into conversations buzzing with brogue
• Beat the crowds, skip the lines, and avoid tourist traps with Rick's candid, humorous insight
• The best places to eat, sleep, and relax with a Guinness
• Self-guided walking tours of atmospheric neighborhoods and awe-inspiring sights
• Trip-planning tools, like how to link destinations, build your itinerary, and get from place to place
• Detailed maps, including a fold-out map for exploring on the go
• Coverage of Dublin, Kilkenny, Waterford, County Wexford, Kinsale, Cobh, Kenmare, The Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, County Clare, the Burren, Galway, the Aran Islands, Connemara, County Mayo, Belfast, Portrush, the Antrim Coast, Derry, County Donegal, and much more
• Covid-related travel info and resources for a smooth trip
• Print length 616 pages
• Language English
• Publisher Rick Steves
• Publication date December 13, 2022
• Dimensions 4.85 x 1.75 x 8.05 inches
• ISBN-10 1641714573
• ISBN-13 978-1641714570
• See all details

Frequently bought together

More items to explore

From the brand

What sets Rick Steves apart from other travel guides?

A personal and experienced take - Rick Steves has spent over 40 years traveling Europe and he shares his favorite spots and essential travel strategies with you.

Are these books updated for current travel?

Rick and his team fan out across Europe personally checking and updating each listing in his guidebooks. These are the most accurate guides to Europe!

Why should I use a Rick Steves guidebook?

Rick will point you toward worthwhile experiences and help avoid expensive mistakes. A Rick Steves book is like having a tour guide in your pocket!

Editorial Reviews

About the author, product details.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Rick Steves; 21st edition (December 13, 2022)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 616 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1641714573
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1641714570
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.11 pounds
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 4.85 x 1.75 x 8.05 inches
• #1 in Dublin Travel Guides
• #1 in General Ireland Travel Guides
• #4 in Tourist Destinations & Museums Guides

About the author

Rick steves.

Guidebook author and travel TV host Rick Steves is America's most respected authority on European travel. Rick took his first trip to Europe in 1969, visiting piano factories with his father, a piano importer. As an 18-year-old, Rick began traveling on his own, funding his trips by teaching piano lessons. In 1976, he started his business, Rick Steves' Europe, which has grown from a one-man operation to a company with a staff of 100 full-time, well-travelled employees at his headquarters in Washington state. There he produces more than 50 guidebooks on European travel, America's most popular travel series on public television, a weekly hour-long national public radio show, a weekly syndicated column, and free travel information available through his travel center and ricksteves.com. Rick Steves' Europe also runs a successful European tour program. Rick Steves lives and works in his hometown of Edmonds, Washington. His office window overlooks his old junior high school.

Customer reviews

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Reviews with images

• Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

Top reviews from other countries

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Start Selling with Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Host an Amazon Hub
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

• Tour Account ›
• Travel Forum ›
• Travel Forum
• Ireland 6 days st...

Ireland 6 days starting in Dublin

I’m staring at some cheap direct flights in late June. I’m torn between trying to drive a route around the countryside going west to north and back to Dublin or splitting my time between Dublin and Belfast and just doing a train. Never driven on the left but if I don’t get out of the big cities I’ll probably regret it. Any thoughts from you experienced travelers?

You can easily see the countryside via guided day trips from both cities. From Dublin do the popular Newgrange trip and it will include other locations such as the Hill of Tara and Monasterboice, or take one to Glendalough. From Belfast do a day trip up to the Giant’s Causeway. This way you will see both the city and the countryside without the stress of learning to drive on the left, and getting lost. You don’t have a lot of time, so making use of the guided day trips might be the most efficient use of your time.

We have been to Ireland three times, all visiting ports on cruises, however, we have covered the eastern area of the island from The Blarney Castle, Dublin up to Belfast and the Giants Causeway.

All that was wonderful, but my Son and his friend rented a car and spend a week driving to areas in the SW and West and loved it. The visited the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula. That was the highlight of their drive.

They did comment on driving in those areas, that roads are frequently narrow with sheep sometimes in the way. Don't expect to travel that fast on Ireland's roads in the west.

We did our Ireland, or rather mostly Northern Ireland trip in 2015. We arrived in London to stay with a friend, then we all took the train up to Belfast. We spent a day there, then the train to Derry, where we spent three nights. While in Derry, we rented a car and went into County Donegal. Fantastic and wonderfully scenic, historical, and personal trip but for us the driving was stressful. But that is just us, probably. We also loved Scotland in 2009 but the driving drove us crazy and resulted in a really big fight between the other couple we were with.

Everyone has their preferences, but I was not enamoured with Dublin and would spend no more than a day or two there in favor of the smaller towns of Ireland's west coast (and Belfast, sure). Central Dublin seemed to be overrun with drunken Brits on hen/stag weekends. However, since it seems you have an Irish name I'm sure you'd enjoy the EPIC museum. I really love Irish trad music, and aside from the Pipers Corner, I had a hard time finding an intimate pub for hearing musicians play in Dublin, whereas you'll find plenty of them up and down the Wild Atlantic Way from Galway to Dingle and Kenmare. In any case, I think you would miss a lot of the charm of Ireland if you only take trains and only stay in cities. Train from Dublin to Belfast or to Galway, sure . But if you enjoy driving and are not generally nervous behind the wheel, and have a passenger who can help remind you about things like "hug the curb!" as you're making left turns/"far lane!" as you make right turns, then the transition isn't bad. On many rural roads, there is only one lane anyhow, with little pull-out spots every 100m or so for when two cars need to pass, so it's not like you're going to wander into oncoming traffic. We spent most of a week in Dingle on Rick Steve's recommendation and did not regret it. Only regret was wasting time going to Killarney NP and much of the Ring of Kerry (drive from the Cliffs of Kerry to Waterville, however, was amazing ... quite a rollercoaster ride).

Please do not reply to violations of our Community Guidelines .

Rick Steves' Genius Tips For Traveling Through Europe With Kids

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Traveling with kids to Europe can create long-lasting memories and bring the family closer together, but it can also be tricky for youngsters to connect with the culture in the same way you do. Luckily, travel expert, author, and TV host Rick Steves has a few tips to make the trip more enjoyable for everyone via his website . His first suggestion is to start bridging cultural connections well before you actually go abroad.

For example, if your family is visiting Italy in the near future, show them pictures of the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and the Piazza del Popolo. To bring history to life, Steves has a video library called Classroom Europe with an array of three to five-minute segments on destinations and points of interest. You could also watch kid's movies set in the region you're visiting, like "Luca" for Italy or "Ratatouille" for France.

Of course, let's not forget about food. Take the time to visit new restaurants or learn to cook a few of the country's staples at your home. While you can't introduce your kids to everything before the big trip — and where's the fun in that? — it doesn't hurt to ease them into international travel with a few foreign dishes. You could also see if there are local events related to your destination, like a St. Patrick's Day festival for Ireland .

Read more: How To Create Your Own Travel Capsule Wardrobe To Make Packing Easier

Help Kids Interpret Their Experience

Once abroad, purchase a journal or sketchbook at your first stop, according to Rick Steves' Europe. Not only will this help your kids enjoy the vacation , it will be something sentimental to revisit in the future. Use the journal to have your kids write down their thoughts, favorite smells or tastes, and cultural observations, says Steves. Invite them to get creative and draw a favorite landmark. You could also collect airplane boarding passes, train stubs, entrance tickets to museums and galleries, maps, and wristbands and glue them inside the journal. Perhaps stop inside photo booths for some silly family snapshots and add them to the collection.

That said, you could also print a few coloring pages of iconic landmarks from  Supercoloring.com , a free database of over 10,000 printable designs. Then, be sure to visit the locations the kids are coloring in. Continuing with the Italy theme, you could bring a Kids' Travel Guide with fun facts about the country or an Italian Picture Dictionary Coloring Book  with different phrases so they can master a few basics, like hello, goodbye, please, and thank you. In other words, anything to encourage children to connect the dots.

Give Them Breaks Between Tours

Museum after museum, gallery after gallery, it can be tough for kids to be immersed in "serious" activities all day. Therefore, be sure to incorporate plenty of breaks and let them partake in their favorite activities from home. In fact, on warm afternoons, you'll often find European families with children hanging out in the local town square or plaza, as per Rick Steves' Europe. This is a great opportunity to bring your kids for playtime and interactions with the locals. Look up parks, playgrounds, toy stores, theme parks , and kids' museums in the area to pique their interest.

If your kids say they are bored during the trip, don't fret, says Steves via Rick Steves' Europe. Even if they are homesick, chances are, they'll look back on this adventure with fondness. In fact, years from now, they might recall more about the trip than you realize and shock you with their knowledge about a place and culture. Think of your family trip as an investment; put in the time now, and you'll see the returns later in the form of your child's appreciation for this big, beautiful world.

Read the original article on Explore .