Emerald valleys, majestic castles, cozy pubs, and stunning natural wonders are just a few reasons people travel to Ireland. RealTravelers Mike and AnnaMarie explored Dublin, enjoying a pint at the Guinness Factory, learning about Irish history at Collins Barracks, and marveling at the spectacular stained glass windows of Christchurch Cathedral. Check out their Dublin blog for several helpful reviews of restaurants, hotels, and tour companies. RealTraveler Christina enjoyed the lush, rolling hills passing by her window on the way to Galway. Once she arrived she fell in love with the colorful architecture of Quay Street, the fairytale-esque castles nestled against beautiful hillsides, and the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher. Enjoy her account here. Want to read more great stories from travelers who’ve been to Ireland? Check below for links to helpful and entertaining itineraries from RealTravelers.

Travel expert and enthusiast, Michelle Finkelstein, says you need at least ten days to really enjoy all this charming country has to offer. Inspired by the friendly city life of Dublin and the quieter country life of places like Shannon and County Kerry, she’s created a fantastic 10-day itinerary that’s sure to arm the Ireland traveler with plenty of ideas. Here are some excerpts:

Dublin: Days 1 & 2

Ask around and you’ll know someone who knows someone who used to live in the States for years but moved back to Dublin because it’s booming. The ‘Celtic Tiger’s’ economy has been steadily growing for years while much of Europe has stagnated. This coupled with a strong Euro (or weak dollar, however you look at it) means expensive hotel, food and drink costs so don’t be surprised if you feel more like you’re in London circa 2004. In true Irish spirit, you’ll still find the classic Georgian squares, cobblestone streets and atmospheric pubs, but now arm-in-arm with boutique hotels, sleek lounges and a palpable buzz.

Dublin is the city of literature and legend, Guinness and Gaelic. While much is new in town, there is enough history and culture to enthrall the most jaded visitor. Most of the attractions are in the city center south of the Liffey River, but some are out in the suburbs. Most of Dublin is walkable and a decent bus system traverses the city. Taxis are plentiful, but good luck getting one at the end of the evening as all the bars empty out.

What to Do
– Grafton Street – Amble this pedestrian area and side streets for shopping (the upscale Brown Thomas department store is here), restaurants, bars and people-watching.
– Trinity College – Founded in 1592 this esteemed college is the oldest in Ireland and the famous medieval manuscript, the Book of Kells, is on display in the library.
– Merrion & Fitzwilliam Squares – Wander the elegant streets around these plazas observing the 18th century Georgian architecture.
– Temple Bar – Touristy but quaint, cruise the cobbled streets and brownstone buildings of this ‘Cultural Quarter’, where outdoor performances and markets abound on the weekends. At night the area is quite raucous but amusing.
– Malahide Castle – This 12th century stone castle in a suburb is furnished with antiques from the 1800s on and features gorgeous gardens.
– Christchurch Cathedral – This gorgeous 11th century was restored in the 19th century and favors elements of both the Gothic and Romanesque eras but with an Irish flair.
– Guinness Storehouse – See where the characteristic dark stout is produced in this historic brewery founded in 1759. The converted Hopstore and informational gallery are of interest, but the highlight is the end when you partake of the foamy beverage in the rotunda with panoramic views. Don’t be surprised if most the tour group gets ‘pissed’ (and this doesn’t mean angry.)
– Jameson Distillery – Learn the chronicle of Irish whiskey then enjoy a tasting. Same note as above applies her.

Connemara, Galway County: Days 3 & 4

Connemara, one of the most scenic areas of Ireland, is a land of mountains and lakes and has the largest Irish-speaking population in the country. The rugged coastline is dotted with beaches, islands and harbors.

What to Do
– Connemara Loop – Drive this 45km loop along the far west coastline observing ancient bogs, sandy beaches, archaeological sites, Connemara National Park and the powerful Atlantic.
– Kylemore Abbey – Home of Benedictine nuns, this glorious 19th century castle set on a lake features a jewel-box Gothic cathedral and stunning walled garden.
– Galway City – This spirited town is choc-a-bloc with restaurants and pubs with (to quote my friend Stevie Fitz in Dublin) ‘good pints and more importantly, very tolerant staff’.
– St. Nicholas Church – The oldest in Galway (dating to 1320), it is rumored that Christopher Columbus prayed here during a 1477 visit.
– Spanish Arch – Built in 1584 and situated on the banks of the River Corrib, this double archway was originally an extension of the city walls designed to protect the quays. There is actually nothing supporting the ‘Spanish’ claim and today it houses a city museum.
– The Arts – Known as the unofficial arts and music capital of the country, Galway is home to an arts centre and a dynamic summer arts festival.
– Galway Races – Also held each summer these famous horse races are a great time.
– Galway Cathedral – Built in the 1960s, the neo-Romanesque church offers beautiful stained glass, mosaics and Connemara marble floors.

Kenmare, County Kerry: Day 6

Kenmare, nestled at the foot of the Cork and Kerry mountains in southwest Ireland, makes a good base for touring the sights in County Kerry. Depending on your mood, drive along the Ring of Kerry en route to your hotel in Kenmare or check in and start from there.

What to in do County Kerry
– Ring of Kerry – This fabulous drive will take an entire day and can be broken up with scenic hikes and interesting stops. We recommend going against the tour bus course and travel clockwise along this 170km (105mi) circular coastal route. Starting in Kenmare, drive down to the coast, around the Iveragh peninsula and inland to Killarney. Besides magnificent seascapes, there are picturesque villages, ancient forts, Celtic standing stones and grand manors. While it can get congested with tourists in the summer, it is still well worth the visit.

Some highlights:
– Staigue stone fort – Circular Iron Age fort outside Sneem.
– Derrynane House – Former summer home of statesman Daniel O’Connell near Caherdaniel. The austere stone edifice is now a museum and the ruins of St Finian’s Abbey and Caherdaniel Fort are also on the grounds.
– Hiking – Park and hike around Derrynane down into the fishing village of Portmagee.
– Muckross House, Garden & Farms – 19th century estate built for wealthy landowners located in Killarney National Park. Beautiful stone mansion, grounds and traditional farm.
– Ross Castle – 15th century castle also in the park, on the banks of Lough Leane (Lake of Learning).
– Ladies View – This dramatic panoramic viewpoint in the park was apparently given the name because Queen Victoria’s Ladies-in-Waiting were taken with the vista during an 1861 visit.

For more suggestions and wonderful places to see and things to do on your next visit to Ireland, check out the rest of Michelle’s Itinerary, and explore the links below.

Ireland Itineraries from RealTravelers:
Guinness, Seals, and Rugby by localkineguy
Thanksgiving Break in Ireland by sschott27
Europe 2007 by Mike & AnnaMarie
Our Trip Ireland and Spain by go_girl

More Useful Links:
Ireland Travel Guide
Top Spots in Ireland
Dublin Travel Guide