Lush green spaces, fascinating attractions, and delicious foods are only a few of the things that should attract your family to Southern Ireland. There are so many things to see and do in this beautiful country. You can experience Southern Ireland in as little as eight days if you plan your itinerary properly. I would love to help you with that by personalizing a Southern Ireland itinerary for your family vacation. Until then, I want to show you the possibilities using this eight-day itinerary of Southern Ireland.  

Experience Southern Ireland in 8 Days 

Day One: Dublin 

On the first day of your family vacation in Ireland, you will land in the city of Dublin. This is the perfect time to get acquainted with the city. Take it slow, as you walk around and recover from potential jet lag.  

If you really want an authentic start to your Ireland family vacation, head over to the Guinness Storehouse. Take a tour, learn how Guinness is supposed to be poured, and drink a pint or two.  

From there, walk to Phoenix Park. This large park is home to the Zoological Gardens, Victorian Flower Gardens, and Glen Pond. Take the time to check out the Magazine Fort, Prehistoric Burial Chamber, and the Papal Cross. Ashtown Castle and Demesne may be of interest as well.  

Head back to your hotel early to get some rest before your next big day in Dublin.  

Day Two: Dublin 

Yes, you really need at least two days to truly explore the best of Dublin during your family vacation. An early start is a must if you want to see the Book of Kells at Trinity College. This 9th century manuscript is quite popular. Lines form early at the Old Library to see the pages that are on display for the day.  

Next, you can choose to see the EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, Christ Church Cathedral, or St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Or relax on St. Stephen’s Green with a picnic lunch. The choice is always yours when I am personalizing your vacation itineraries.  

Day Three: Travel to Kilkenny 

Day three of this amazing journey through Southern Ireland will be a day of travel. However, don’t worry, you will still see a few of the best things in Ireland.  

Begin the day by heading towards the Wicklow Mountains. This is where you will discover the Powerscourt Estate, Gardens, and Waterfall. There are a few trails you can hike along before enjoying a picnic near the rushing water.  

Trying to tear yourself away from the beauty of this area will be difficult, but the beauty of Glendalough will be waiting for you. Glendalough is known as the valley of the two lakes. It has a rich history, gorgeous views, and an abundance of wildlife.  

I recommend walking through the natural gardens before checking out the nearby waterfalls.  Don’t skip the Visitor Center, because you can learn quite a bit about the area there.  

At the end of the day, you will arrive in Kilkenny, more than ready for dinner and a good night’s sleep.  

Day Four: Kilkenny 

There are so many fascinating things to do in Kilkenny. One day may simply not be enough but try not to rush through any of your experiences.  

Kilkenny Castle should be at the top of your list of things to see on day four of your family vacation. Don’t skip past the Kilkenny Design Centre, which is located in Kilkenny’s Castle Yard.  

St. Canice’s Cathedral and Round Tower are other highlights in Kilkenny. Although, you may want to skip past them if you want to spend more time sipping beer at Smithwick’s. Learn how Smithwick’s came to be in the 1700s and how their beer is brewed. Then sit at the bar and taste the different variants of Smithwick’s before claiming your all-time favorite.  

Day Five: Travel to Kerry 

You’ll be getting deeper into Southern Ireland on day five of your family trip. This is the day when you will travel to Kerry. Stops at the Rock of Cashel and the English Market will keep the day fun and exciting.  

Allow for a couple hours at the English Market. You will need that much time to explore all the stalls filled with clothing, food, spices, soaps, and more. This is an excellent opportunity to try some traditional Irish foods.  

Day Six: Ring of Kerry 

It will be a long day in the car, as you travel the one hundred eleven miles of the Ring of Kerry. Thankfully, there are many stops you can make along the way. Keep your camera’s batteries charged, so you don’t miss out on family photos at the popular destinations.  

I recommend stopping at Rossbeigh Beach, Skellig Michael, the Derrynane House, Muckross House, ross Castle, and Torc Waterfall. Although, you could technically stop at every sight along the way to really make this a magical vacation. 

Day Seven: Travel to Limerick 

You may want to sleep in a little later this morning before heading down to Limerick. You may need it after a busy day on the Ring of Kerry.  

Today’s options include touring the Dingle Peninsula or visiting the areas of Lough Gur and Adare Village. You may even drive straight through to Limerick with no stops if you really need the downtime. Then make it an early night, so you are bright eyed for the Cliffs of Moher.  

Day Eight: County Clare 

One of the best things to see in Ireland is the Cliffs of Moher. So, you could say the best was saved for last on this itinerary of Southern Ireland. Family pictures can be taken anywhere near these cliffs. Just be prepared for a bird or two to fly by since this is a protected area for seabirds.  

Spend as much time as you want walking along the cliffs. Then explore Burren National Park or simply enjoy the sights close to your hotel.  

Your family vacation in Ireland officially ends tonight and you will fly back home the following morning.  

This itinerary shares all the experiences you can have during a family vacation in Southern Ireland. However, your itinerary may look slightly different, since everyone prefers unique things while on vacation. I can help create a Southern Ireland itinerary that meets your family’s needs, so you can fall in love with this country on your own terms.  

So, are you ready to have me create a personalized family vacation itinerary for Southern Ireland or another destination?  

If you said yes, I would like to invite you to click here to schedule a personalized family vacation planning session with me. When you click on the link, you will be taken directly to my digital calendar to schedule a time that is convenient for you.  

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