Ireland, the Emerald Isle, is a country of rolling green hills, medieval castles, dramatic coastlines, and lively cities. For time-strapped travelers with an adventurous spirit, a 5-day Ireland vacation can be an experience they will cherish forever. Booking your air travel and hotels on Trip.com guarantees a hassle-free and affordable travel experience, giving you more energy and funds to discover the nation’s beauty. Below is a day-by-day itinerary for 5 days of Ireland adventure.
Day 1: Arrival in Dublin – The Heart of Ireland

Your journey starts in Dublin, Ireland’s vibrant capital city. Upon arrival, proceed to your accommodation, which you can easily book on Trip.com. Dublin is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore even if you’re short on time.
Morning:
Start with a hearty Irish breakfast at a local café. Then, explore Dublin Castle and St. Patrick’s Cathedral to immerse yourself in Ireland’s rich history.
Afternoon:
Take a leisurely walk around the lively Temple Bar streets, famous for brightly colored buildings, art galleries, and rowdy pubs. Visit the Guinness Storehouse for a tour, and enjoy panoramic city views from the Gravity Bar while tasting the famous Irish stout.
Evening:
Dine at a classic Irish restaurant and enjoy live music at one of Dublin’s legendary pubs. Don’t miss authentic dishes such as Irish stew or fish and chips.
Tip:
Booking your stays and flights through Trip.com provides the best deals and hassle-free options, giving you more time to savor Dublin’s character.
Day 2: Drive to Kilkenny – Medieval Marvels

On your second day, drive or take a scenic train trip to Kilkenny, commonly known as Ireland’s medieval capital. Traveling by car from Dublin to Kilkenny takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Morning:
See Kilkenny Castle, a magnificent fortress with well-designed gardens. Walk through medieval town streets filled with artisan boutiques, cafés, and historic buildings.
Afternoon:
Visit St. Canice’s Cathedral and ascend the round tower for panoramic views of Kilkenny. Stop by the Black Abbey, an impressive Gothic church with centuries of history.
Evening:
Enjoy Kilkenny’s vibrant nightlife and traditional Irish music. Try local favorites such as Irish lamb stew or soda bread.
Travel Tip:
Book your transportation and accommodations on Trip.com ahead of time to obtain low-cost and convenient arrangements, especially during peak tourist season.
Day 3: Waterford – Ireland’s Oldest City

On day three, travel south to Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, renowned for crystal-making and Viking heritage. This journey takes about an hour from Kilkenny.
Morning:
Visit the House of Waterford Crystal, where master craftsmen shape beautiful glass objects. Discover the city’s heritage and pick up a souvenir or two.
Afternoon:
Stop by Reginald’s Tower, Ireland’s oldest civic building, and walk through the medieval streets. Don’t forget the Viking Triangle, full of museums, shops, and historical landmarks.
Evening:
Unwind on the waterfront and dine on fresh seafood at a local restaurant. Waterford’s quaint atmosphere is ideal for an evening stroll.
Tip:
Booking through Trip.com provides curated suggestions for accommodation, flights, and local activities, so you make the most of your time exploring Waterford’s heritage.
Day 4: Cork – Cultural and Culinary Delight

Next, travel west to Cork, Ireland’s second-largest city, famous for its foodie culture and cultural attractions. The journey from Waterford to Cork is about 2 hours.
Morning:
Start with a stroll around the English Market, a historic covered market selling local produce, artisan goods, and delicious foods. Sample fresh cheese, meats, and baked treats.
Afternoon:
Visit the Cork City Gaol to experience Ireland’s history, then walk along the River Lee and admire the buildings. If time permits, visit the Crawford Art Gallery for Irish and European art.
Evening:
Enjoy Cork’s vibrant nightlife or dine at one of the city’s renowned restaurants. Seafood enthusiasts will find plenty of fresh options along the waterfront.
Travel Tip:
Booking accommodations and transport with Trip.com can save time and make planning hassle-free, allowing you to focus on Cork’s cultural attractions.
Day 5: Drive Back to Dublin via the Rock of Cashel

On the final day, drive or take a guided tour back to Dublin. Stop along the way at the Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland’s most breathtaking historic sites.
Morning:
Explore the medieval fortress, cathedral, and round tower. The Rock of Cashel offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside—perfect for memorable photos.
Afternoon:
Continue to Dublin. If time allows, stop briefly at the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens near Kildare, a tranquil spot to relax before returning to the city.
Evening:
Overnight in Dublin and enjoy a final evening stroll or dinner. Pick up any last-minute souvenirs and reflect on your whirlwind Irish adventure.
Tip:
Use Trip.com to organize your return flight and ensure a smooth end to your journey without last-minute stress.
Travel Tips for a 5-Day Ireland Trip
- Book Early: Utilize Trip.com to get the best deals on flights, hotels, and car rentals. Booking in advance guarantees availability and lower rates.
- Pack Smart: Ireland’s weather is changeable. Bring layers, waterproof gear, and comfortable walking shoes.
- Plan Transportation: Driving offers flexibility, but trains and buses are convenient for cities.
- Stay Connected: Carry a local SIM card or enable international roaming for navigation and bookings on the go.
- Enjoy Local Food: Don’t miss Irish favorites like soda bread, seafood chowder, and artisanal cheeses.
Why Use Trip.com for Your Trip
Organizing a multi-city trip to Ireland can be complicated, but Trip.com makes it easy:
- Budget-Friendly Deals: Compare several airlines and accommodation options to secure the best prices.
- Easy Booking: Flights, hotels, and car rentals can all be booked through one source.
- Verified Providers: Trip.com partners with trusted airlines and hotels, ensuring reliability.
- Customizable Itineraries: Tailor your bookings to fit your 5-day schedule efficiently.
- Stress-Free Travel: By using Trip.com, travelers can focus on enjoying Ireland’s stunning landscapes, historic sites, and cultural experiences without worrying about logistics.
A 5-day Ireland trip offers a perfect mix of history, culture, natural beauty, and cuisine. From Dublin’s city streets to Kilkenny’s medieval architecture, Waterford’s Viking past, Cork’s culinary delights, and the breathtaking Rock of Cashel, this itinerary guarantees a worthwhile adventure.
Booking flights and accommodations on Trip.com provides convenience, value, and peace of mind, allowing you to fully enjoy the Emerald Isle’s magic. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning, Ireland’s charm will leave you longing for more.