This blog goes in detail of why we chose Ireland for our First International Trip. When planning our first international trip, we had a few important factors to consider. Ultimately, it was Donald’s turn to choose the destination, and since he prefers cooler climates, Ireland stood out as the ideal choice. As this was my first time traveling outside the country, which initially felt a bit intimidating, I also requested that Donald pick a destination where English is commonly spoken. With that in mind, Ireland became the clear winner for our dream vacation.
Researching Our Ireland Adventure
Once we decided on Ireland, the real planning began. As a full-time dental hygienist, I shared our travel plans with many of my patients, many of whom had visited Ireland and offered fantastic tips and suggestions. Meanwhile, Donald took to YouTube and blogs, scouring through travel content to find hidden gems and must-see destinations in Ireland.
Every weekend, we would sit down, compare our research, and work together to craft our itinerary. Initially, Donald was keen on spending one week in Ireland and another in Scotland. While this seemed doable, I was concerned we might feel rushed and not fully experience everything Ireland had to offer. In the end, we opted for a two-week stay in Ireland, which turned out to be the best decision.
Best Ireland Two Week Itinerary
We spent two unforgettable weeks exploring Ireland, and here’s a breakdown of what we did and the top places we visited. If you’re planning your own trip to Ireland, this itinerary includes both iconic attractions with a few hidden gems.
Days 1-3: Dublin
- Dublin Castle and Trinity College – Immerse yourself in Dublin’s rich history with a visit to Dublin Castle and the Book of Kells at Trinity College.
- Guinness Storehouse – No trip to Dublin is complete without a tour of the Guinness Storehouse, where you can learn about the history of Ireland’s iconic stout and enjoy a pint at the Gravity Bar with panoramic views of the city.
- Temple Bar – Experience Dublin’s vibrant nightlife and enjoy live music in the bustling Temple Bar district.
Days 4-6: Cork, Cobh, and Midleton
- The English Market – Indulge in Cork’s local cuisine at the historic English Market, a must-see for foodies.
- Cobh – Visit the charming coastal town of Cobh, famous for being the Titanic’s last port of call.
- Midleton Distillery – For whiskey lovers, a tour of the Midleton Distillery, home of Jameson Irish Whiskey, is an unforgettable experience.
Days 7-9: Ring of Kerry, Galway, and Cliffs of Moher
- Ring of Kerry – Drive the scenic Ring of Kerry, one of Ireland’s most famous drives, with breathtaking views of mountains, lakes, and the Atlantic coastline.
- Cliffs of Moher – No trip to Ireland is complete without visiting the iconic Cliffs of Moher, offering dramatic ocean views that are truly awe-inspiring.
- Galway – Explore the charming streets of Galway, known for its vibrant arts scene, lively pubs, and warm atmosphere.
Days 10-12: Giant’s Causeway and Derry
- Giant’s Causeway – Marvel at the natural beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Giant’s Causeway, with its unique hexagonal basalt columns formed millions of years ago.
- Derry (Londonderry) – Walk the historic walls of Derry and learn about the city’s fascinating past, including its role in the Troubles.
Days 13-14: Belfast
- Titanic Belfast – Pay tribute to the Titanic at the Titanic Belfast museum, an interactive experience that tells the story of the ship and its tragic voyage.
- Black Taxi Tour – Take a guided Black Taxi tour of Belfast to gain deeper insight into the city’s political history and the complex issues of the Troubles.
- Food Scene – Belfast has emerged as a top culinary destination, with a wide range of food options to satisfy any palate.
Renting a car was the best choice for Ireland
One of the best ways to explore Ireland is by renting a car. Another reason why we chose Ireland. While it may seem daunting at first—especially for Americans used to driving on the right side of the road—driving in Ireland is easier than it seems. Mind you Donald was driving and yes it was a bit chaotic in the cities ,when we got to the open roads; it was very easy. We recommend driving counterclockwise around the country for the best experience, as this allows you to take in Ireland’s stunning landscapes from the “outer” side of the road, offering better views throughout the journey. Additionally, driving counterclockwise helps you avoid the tour bus crowds, as most tour groups travel in the opposite direction. This route also proved to be an excellent choice by chance, and we enjoyed more peaceful, scenic drives.
Do You Need Special Insurance Coverage for Renting a Car in Ireland?
Yes, renting a car in Ireland requires special insurance coverage, but we found a clever travel hack that saved us money. Our Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card provided us with Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and theft protection (TP) as part of its travel perks. To access this coverage, we had to follow these steps:
- Book the rental car using our Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card.
- Obtain written proof of coverage from Chase, dated within 30 days of pickup.
This travel hack saved us from paying extra fees for car insurance. If you’re planning to rent a car in Ireland, be sure to review your credit card’s Offer Details and Terms & Conditions, as some companies may change their coverage options.
Would we choose Ireland again?
Without a doubt, our two-week trip to Ireland was an unforgettable experience. From the stunning natural landscapes and historic landmarks to the warm and welcoming people, Ireland exceeded our expectations. While there are a few places we might skip on a future trip to explore new destinations, we wouldn’t hesitate to return. The Emerald Isle truly lives up to its name, offering something for every traveler. We are grateful we chose Ireland for our first trip, and plan on discoing more in the future.
Planning your trip to Ireland?
Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Dublin or soaking in the serene beauty of the Cliffs of Moher, this itinerary offers a perfect balance of Ireland’s best-known sights and hidden treasures. Safe travels, and may you enjoy all the wonders that Ireland has to offer! Curious what backpack we would use for our next trip, check out our blog about what backpacks we like.