Heart of Ireland Tour |
Dublin in 8 Days
Ireland
Dublin
8 days
Detailed Itinerary
Short on time but eager to experience the very best of Ireland? The Heart of Ireland Tour is an expertly curated Dublin in 8 Days tour that captures the highlights of our two-week Best of Ireland journey in just over a week. Beginning in Ennis, near Shannon Airport, and concluding in Dublin, this unforgettable Ireland itinerary takes you deep into the soul of the Emerald Isle.
Guided by experienced tour leaders and local experts, you’ll explore Ireland’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems — from the dramatic Cliffs of Moher and the historic Rock of Cashel to the charming village of Adare, the rugged beauty of Dingle Peninsula, and the cultural richness of Kilkenny Castle. Along the way, enjoy immersive walking tours, traditional music-filled pubs, artisan visits, crystal cutting demonstrations, and authentic Irish whiskey tastings. Highlights also include Glendalough’s monastic valley and the UNESCO-listed Brú na Bóinne archaeological site, making this one of the best Ireland guided tours for first-time visitors.
If you’re looking for a perfectly paced Ireland itinerary in 8 days, this Heart of Ireland Tour offers a rich blend of history, culture, scenery, and local experiences — all in one unforgettable journey.
Included

Accommodations

Drinks

Food

Tour Guide

Transportation

Visa Support


Your Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Ireland | Cliffs of Moher
Your Heart of Ireland Tour begins in Ennis, just a short drive from Shannon Airport. We’ll meet at our hotel at 2:00 PM for a group orientation before heading to one of Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders — the Cliffs of Moher. Standing over 600 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, the dramatic cliffs offer unforgettable coastal views at the very edge of Europe.
In the evening, we’ll gather for a warm Welcome to Ireland dinner, the perfect introduction to the journey ahead.
Overnight: Ennis (1 night)
Bus: 2 hrs | Walking: Light

Day 2
Ennis to Dingle Town
After breakfast, we travel south toward the breathtaking Dingle Peninsula, one of the highlights of any Ireland 8 days tour. Along the way, we stop in Adare, a postcard-perfect village known for its charming thatched cottages and colorful gardens.
By afternoon, we arrive in Dingle Town, a lively harbor village famous for its pastel houses and Irish spirit. A guided walking tour is followed by a gourmet dinner featuring local specialties and an evening filled with traditional Gaelic music.
Overnight: Dingle (2 nights)
Bus: 5 hrs | Walking: Light

Day 3
Exploring the Dingle Peninsula
Today is dedicated to discovering some of Ireland’s wildest landscapes and oldest Christian sites. We begin with a crystal cutting demonstration by a master craftsman, offering insight into a treasured Irish tradition.
With a local expert, we then travel the legendary Slea Head Drive, often considered the most scenic road in Ireland. Stops include dramatic coastal viewpoints and the Great Blasket Centre, where you’ll learn about island life, Irish language, and storytelling traditions that shaped the region.
Overnight: Dingle
Bus: Scenic touring | Walking: Moderate

Day 4
Rock of Cashel & Kilkenny
Leaving Dingle behind, we cross the heart of the Emerald Isle. Our first stop is the awe-inspiring Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland’s most significant historical and spiritual landmarks. Associated with St. Patrick and set high above the plains of Tipperary, this site offers powerful history and sweeping views.
Later, we arrive in medieval Kilkenny, where we enjoy an orientation walk before touring Kilkenny Castle, a Norman stronghold dating back to the 12th century. The evening is free to explore local pubs, music, and dining at your own pace.
Overnight: Kilkenny (1 night)
Bus: 5 hrs | Walking: Strenuous

Day 5
Medieval and Monastic Heritage
This morning, we visit Glendalough, Ireland’s most impressive monastic settlement, nestled among lakes and mountains. Explore the iconic Round Tower, ancient churches, and peaceful walking paths that reflect Ireland’s early Christian heritage.
In the afternoon, we continue to Dublin, where we get oriented before enjoying dinner together in Ireland’s vibrant capital city.
Overnight: Dublin (3 nights)
Bus: 4 hrs | Walking: Strenuous

Day 6
Historic Dublin & Trinity College
A guided walking tour introduces you to the historic heart of Dublin, tracing the city’s journey from Viking origins through centuries of British rule to modern Irish independence and literary greatness.
The tour concludes at Trinity College, home to the world-famous Book of Kells, one of Ireland’s greatest cultural treasures. The remainder of the day is free to explore Dublin’s top attractions such as Dublin Castle, the National Museum, or Temple Bar.
No bus | Walking: Moderate

Day 7
Brú na Bóinne & Farewell Dinner
We travel outside Dublin to Brú na Bóinne, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s most important prehistoric landscapes. The ancient passage tombs of Newgrange and Knowth are older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, offering a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s ancient past.
Back in Dublin, we visit Glasnevin Cemetery and Museum, resting place of many Irish national heroes. In the evening, we celebrate our journey with a farewell dinner, reflecting on an unforgettable Heart of Ireland Tour.
Bus: 2 hrs | Walking: Moderate

Day 8
Tour Ends in Dublin
After breakfast, the tour officially ends. You may depart from Dublin Airport or continue your travels onward to destinations such as London, Paris, or Amsterdam. Your guide will be happy to assist with onward travel plans.
