day trips in ireland for families

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Ireland Family Tours & Vacation Packages

Let TourRadar take the hassle out of finding a trip for the whole family. With 221 tours of Ireland lasting from one day up to 15 days, you're sure to find a great family-friendly adventure. Looking beyond Ireland? See all family tours .

221 Ireland Family trips with 8,610 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing

Best of Ireland (10 Days)

Wonderful informative tour guide.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Irish Highlights (Summer, 7 Days)

Our Irish Experience was great. Our tour guide Allie was very professional and engaging. Driver Stevie was on-tine and friendly. Our hotels were all very clean and comfortable. Morning breakfasts at the hotels very full and well-rounded. We had 2-3 main attractions per day and had adequate time at each one. Ireland is beautiful and I highly recommend.

Irish Elegance (Classic, 8 Days)

Excellent trip! Greg was helpful and gave great advice. He provided that extra service that made the trip special.

Focus on Ireland (Small Groups, 7 Days)

Countryside of the Emerald Isle (Dublin to Ennis) (2024)

Shades of Ireland (Dublin to Kingscourt) (2024)

7-Day Great Atlantic Adventure Small Group Tour

Very well planned tour. Most of the accommodations were excellent.. The BEST part of our tour was our guide - Matt Nolan. He was a last minute substitute but did beautifully. Very knowledgeable of the whole of Ireland and was so passionate about its people and history. Lots of activities which were nicely scheduled and fun!

7-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour

Mike Duggin was a fabulous guide, passionate, entertaining, and well versed in Irish history. Our group of 13 get along well and the itinerary suited our needs, thank you!

The Celtic Voyage - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

A great tour led by great people! 10/10 would do this again and recommend it for anyone looking to see Ireland and its beauty!

Irish Wonder (9 Days)

10 Day Wild Irish Experience - Small Group Tour

Excellent tour. Lee, our tour guide was outstanding at getting us to every place. He gave us lots of suggestions for meals, activities etc. Lee is a wonderful tour guide who really enjoys sharing the history of Ireland. The tour was well planned. Bed and breakfasts were very good. I really enjoyed the tour.

• €99 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

8 Day Castles & Coast Experience - Small Group Tour

More information needed prior to booking about amount of walking involved. E.g.walk from B&Bs to centre of city and restaurants. And from bus parking to sites visited. It was also disappointing that group was scattered between 3 or 4 B& Bs well separated making meeting up for dinner at end of day difficult

Wild South - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

There really aren't proper words to describe how incredible this tour was. My wife and I returned nearly 4 months ago and we have thought and talked about this trip nearly every day. We saw so many magical, mystical, emotion-evoking things that it's hard to even comprehend. From ancient ruins where High Kings were crowned, to watching passersby while having great food and drinks at a street side cafe, to walking along a serene riverfront, to sipping tea while watching the sunset from a castle, to enjoying superb cocktails with new friends in an amazing library bar. And, that, was just the first day! Experiences like feeling gale force winds against your face, as you stand next to a lighthouse on top of rocky cliffs that plunge down into the cold North Atlantic, are followed by strolls down winding streets lined with quaint shops, before ducking into a pub to enjoy some of the best musicians, fine ales or whiskies, delicious meals, and the nicest, friendliest people in the world. The accommodations were perfect and allowed us to get a good night's rest everywhere we went. And, the included breakfasts were sublime and filling, which was needed for days full of activities. Activities like walking through morning fog so thick that you could barely see your outstretched hand, before the fog began to lift and we were treated to the breathtaking views from the Cliffs of Moher along with the sounds of buskers playing the uilleann pipes. Just to start the day. We trekked through lush forests to see pristine waterfalls, lochs, mansions, and the haunting Muckross Abbey, believed to have inspired Irish author Bram Stoker in his writing of Dracula! We traveled the scenic Ring of Kerry, visited Molly Gallivans to learn about the history of weaving woolen sweaters and their importantly identifiable patterns, and even sample some locally made honey mead and poitin (Irish moonshine)! We walked barefoot on beaches, saw Clydesdale horses, sang songs, shared stories, and had the most amazing time. If you're a Star Wars fan reading this review, then I haven't even told you the best part. While some members of our group chose to stay on land and tour Valentia Island, we took a small boat, optional tour, out to the Skellig Islands (you know, where Rey and Chewbacca went to find Luke Skywalker in hiding)!!! We saw thousands of endangered birds that use one of the two islands as a sanctuary, and were joined along the way by a pod of many dolphins racing with our boat and jumping out of the water all around us! Cows, sheep, horses, cows, sheep, cows, and sheep. Did I mention cows and sheep? Ireland is a relatively small country. It's only 175 miles wide and 300 miles long. It has a population of 5 million people. It also has 5.5 million sheep and over 7 million cows. Wow! I haven't even mentioned Galway, Clonmacnoise, Puck the Goat King, the Charlie Chaplin statue, the Ford Model T statue, the scenic towns of Dingle and Lahinch, many more lighthouses, and so much more! All along the way, we learned a lot about the history and culture of this beautiful country from our fantastic tour guides, Andy and Diarmuid. You guys ROCK! We can't wait to visit again!!!

Great Tour of Ireland ( 7 days )

Kerry Royal

Overall good...don't like showers over tub..dangerous...slip mats essential. Gresham Dublin confusing because of the Reno's. Our tour leader and driver were excellent, but the relief driver for our visit to Dingle was downright scary.

Reviews of Ireland Family Tours

This was my first time in Ireland. I absolutely loved everything about this trip. Tour guide and bus driver were amazing. Totally worth every penny. Would go back in a heartbeat

The entire trip was wonderful, very well organized, and satisfying. Peter Flood was an excellent tour guide. He was as knowledgeable as could be, funny, and helpful; and really seems to love what he does.

Excellent guide and driver. Saw a lot of things I would not have on my own. Nice bus and great people to hang out with.

Regions in Ireland

• Southern Ireland (146)
• Ireland Wild Atlantic Way (130)
• Munster (56)
• Ring of Kerry (29)
• Connemara National Park (7)

Travel Styles

• 10 Best Family Travel Agencies 2024
• Ireland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 10 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

Ireland family vacations

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• Self Drive Tours Ireland

5 tours met your criteria

Explore Ireland with us on this family vacation which includes a combination of our favourite family hotels and an unforgettable overnight family stay in the 5* Dromoland Castle

Ireland with Kids – 5 Star Castle Adventure

This package includes seven nights’ in Adare’s most family friendly hotel and on booking your package with us you will receive a comprehensive tour pack which will include several day tours that you may choose to take from this historic location. .

Ireland with Kids - Adare

Ballycotton Bay in East Cork is your base location for this Ireland Family Vacation. With a rich maritime and historical heritage, East Cork has a unique variety of attractions to offer the discerning family.

Ireland with Kids - Ballycotton 7 Nights

For this Irish Tourism family vacation we have chosen Dingle as your base location. The Dingle Peninsula offers some of Ireland’s most stunning scenery from the towering Brandon Mountains to the spectacular seascapes of Dingle Bay.

Ireland with Kids - Dingle 7 Nights

Kilkenny is famous for its medieval building and castle. The atmosphere and character of this unique city makes it a great base for touring Ireland with kids.

Ireland with Kids - Kilkenny

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Create your own tour

It is a little known secret that Ireland is one of the best family vacation destinations around. Your kids will love to climb to the top of our many round towers, visualise fairy’s gathering at some of our famous Stone Age forts and imagining themselves as lords and ladies in our magnificent authentic castles. In other countries historic landmarks continue to be off limits to inquisitive travellers but the ancient buildings and monuments of Ireland are just waiting to be explored. Your family vacation in Ireland is not just about historical landmarks however. Our national parks encompassing hundreds of kilometres of natural woodland, diverse ecology and serene freshwater lakes can be found in Connemara and Kerry and along Ireland’s coastline your family will discover miles and miles of pristine sandy beaches where activities include surfing and horse-riding.

The beauty of our family vacations is that they are ‘one-centred’ and set up in a way that you would just collect our family car rental, drive to your family hotel and check-in for your entire vacation. When you book your family vacation with us you will get an extensive touring pack which will include several day tours which you can take from your base location. You can chose to do all of the day tours, some of them or your family may choose instead to enjoy your hotel and its surroundings. The hotels we have selected for these packages are all family orientated with facilities for kids such as kids club, kids playground and games rooms and facilities for adults including spa treatment rooms and traditional Irish pubs with frequent live music.

We realise that it can be difficult for families to move from hotel to hotel so these tours are ‘one-centred’ (or multi centred if that is your preference) and designed in such a way as you would just pick up your rental car, drive to your hotel location and check in for the duration of your vacation. When you book your tour with us you will get a comprehensive tour pack which will include several day tours that you can chose to take from your base location.

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• By Kate Moran

Safe, stunning and packed with family-friendly adventures, Ireland is a perennial family favorite. We asked local expert Kate Moran to share her best tips for traveling to Ireland with kids, and the best spots around the Emerald Isle for families. Be sure to read her advice to help you plan future Ireland family vacations!

Best Things to Do in Ireland with Kids

Itinerary and planning.

Because Ireland is a relatively small country, visitors tend to try and see “everything” in the course of one week. Lots of friends and family fly into Dublin , drive through Wicklow, kiss the Blarney Stone in Cork, head to Cork City, eat lunch in Kinsale, drive the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula, ascend the Cliffs of Moher, cruise through the amazing Burren, throw back a Guinness and listen to live music at a trad session in Galway , marvel at awe-inspiring Connemara and pose in front of Kylemore Abbey before heading back to Dublin to fly home. They are literally in tatters upon their return.

In our opinion, this is a bit mad — and may even spoil the transcendent impact of an Irish holiday. While Ireland shares aspects of both America and continental Europe, it is distinct in so many ways. Pick a couple of must-sees and then try and slow down a bit – park the car and walk the landscape, repose in front of the fire, order the kids a pack of crisps from the barkeep, savor a Guinness and soak in the relaxed atmosphere.

Need help planning a trip to Ireland with kids?

Our Family Travel Advisors can book vetted accommodations, recommend the best family activities, arrange private tours and guides, and more. Click to get started! >

Transportation

Although public transportation is available in Ireland, driving is the best way to see the country with kids in tow. Parents and children alike will be delighted by the winding country roads, stone walls and animals out to pasture. However, please note when renting a car that most are manual. If you need an automatic car, make sure to specify this when making your reservation — you’ll pay extra for the pleasure, but this is not the time to teach yourself how to drive a stick shift. Remember, the Irish drive on the left side of the road, so sticking to the correct side should be where your focus lies.

Accommodations

Of course, Hollywood has made traditional Irish bed-and-breakfasts quite famous. As with any other accommodation, there is a wide range of variety and quality. However, there are also lovely country houses, traditional independent and chain hotels and holiday homes that are available for rental. Many visitors to Ireland love traveling the countryside, stopping in a village whenever they fancy it and finding a place to bunk without reservations. This is a fun thing to do if you’re visiting as a couple to Ireland; family dynamics suggest you might want to plan a bit more in advance. You may need a crib for a baby or don’t intend to share your bed with your toddler. And teenagers might want a room of their own.

If this is the case, it’s worth booking into a hotel and requesting a crib and an extra bed. Due to the huge property-driven boom over the past decade-plus in Ireland, you’ll find amazing 4- and 5-star hotels (think renovated country estates, farmhouses and castles) throughout Ireland, some in very unlikely, off-the-beaten-path locations. 

Eating Out with Kids

The Irish food scene has really exploded in recent years and can offer visitors a good range of choices. A plethora of organic ingredients and a resurgence of traditional dishes will delight those unfamiliar with Irish cooking. In the countryside, pubs remain the center of village life and are very family-friendly during the day (most pubs prohibit kids after 8 p.m. but welcome them before that). In the major cities of Cork, Galway and Dublin, you’ll have many more options. 

If you plan on bringing a stroller, smaller is better. The doors to most shops and restaurants tend to be narrower than in America — forget about surviving with those double-wide strollers. Most mums of two or more little ones in Dublin seem to have the buggies that stack one kid on top of another, like the Phil and Ted’s brand. Oh, and always  have your rain cover in the bottom of the stroller, even if it looks bright and sunny. Trust me.

A word about the famous rainy weather: Yes, it does really rain a lot. It needn’t slow you down too much, but if you plan spending the day outside, always bring a light windbreaker with a hood. The kind that can be scrunched down into the bottom of your bag or stroller are perfect.

Great Family-Friendly Places to Visit

Dublin and environs.

The country’s capital and cultural heart has lots for families to enjoy. Wander through Trinity College ’s cobblestone paths; up the main shopping street, Grafton Street ; and to St. Stephen’s Green, where the kids can spend some time at the playground. Entry into most museums is free, so they are great to pop into to get out of the rain. In fact, the National Gallery of Ireland has a fantastic gift shop to buy gifts for home as well as a reliable cafe.

The Guinness Storehouse is a requisite stop for many adults — and we can report that it works for a family trip, too. The displays (like the massive waterfall in the front hall) will engage most children for a while and the Gravity Bar is bright and lively. There are baby-changing facilities and, well, there is something strangely gratifying about taking your baby’s picture next to a pint of Guinness. Finally, for older children, visit Kilmainham Gaol  for a tour of the famous jail where the leaders of the 1916 uprising were imprisoned and executed.

Wicklow Mountains and Powerscourt House & Gardens

This is one of our all-time favourite day trips from Dublin. Drive south of the city to the Wicklow Mountains to find Powerscourt Estate . On a sunny day, the drive is spectacular. The tour/video show of Powerscourt isn’t all that interesting (the original building burned down and the existing interior is a recreation), but the planned gardens and Japanese garden are lovely to walk through, and the kids can run wild.

The cafe and shop are feasts for the eyes and stomach — the former, run by the venerable Avoca Cafe , serves delicious Irish food with a twist. The shop is an eclectic mix of Irish goods, kitchen treats and funky clothing and books for adults and kids. If you can, take turns browsing; it’s usually a bit hectic to bring the kids into, as there are a lot of breakables and it’s hard to navigate a stroller through. But you’re sure to find souvenirs for the family members and friends stuck back at home!

TIP: There are several Avoca cafes throughout the country; the food is fantastic and they are always great for kids. The cafes are casual and usually noisy and crowded, but there are always high chairs, places to park a buggy and helpful staff to help carry your trays if you have a baby on your hip!

Browse the complete CB! collection of kid-friendly Ireland hotels

See our hand-curated list of tried and tested accommodations for families, and request one-on-one booking support >

Howth Village and Cliff Walk

The magnificent hills of Howth, just outside Dublin, are well worth a trip to check out. However, the cliff walk literally hugs the cliff’s edge and is only appropriate for adults with babies in a pouch or backpack — the paths are narrow and the drops very steep. There are other, less perilous, paths to the top, so some of your gang can take the more navigable route and meet at the top. The views are stunning and you can’t beat the fresh air! And the rumors are true: A great pint awaits at the end of your hike at The Summit Inn. (During the Cliff Walk, you are really exposed to the elements, so if it’s particularly windy and rainy, skip it. The views won’t be all that great and cliffs and windy days don’t mix. However, a little drizzle — “a soft day” — need not be a deterrent.)

Howth has some great eating establishments, so working up an appetite is a brilliant move. Our suggestions? The House is our new favourite home away from home. Imagine warm, crumbly scones, great coffee and a bacon sandwich served with greens dressed in vinaigrette, and a perfect selection of seafood for dinner. They welcome families with open arms, happy to stash buggies at the door, pull a high chair out for your little one and provide coloring supplies. The adventurous children’s menu offers smaller portions from the regular menu. A close runner-up is a picnic made with fish & chips from Beshoffs of Howth .

Ireland has some seriously impressive playgrounds — really! Indulge the kids with a visit to Ardgillan Castle . The adults will marvel at the gorgeous grounds and view of the sea while the nautical-themed playground provides a bounty of entertainment guaranteed to tucker the kiddies out. If you are hankering for a snack before arrival, nip into Olive on the main drag in Skerries for take-out sandwiches, lattes, and sweets. Planning on a meal after? Visit the excellent Stoop Your Head in Skerries Harbour for its first lunch seating at noon, and dig into some of the freshest, most delectable seafood around. Despite it being a popular (and small) place, they are happy to have children and offer a kids’ menu and highchairs.

Beyond Dublin

The cliffs of moher.

These majestic cliffs rise out of the sea and are truly awe-inspiring for both parents and kids. The visitors’ centre provides some background to this natural wonder. If you are approaching the cliffs from the north, make the drive doubly stunning by choosing a route through the Burren.

Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is a tourist favourite, so some try to avoid it — but it’s a favourite for good reason. Dotted with beautiful Irish villages, dramatic overlooks and stunning beaches tucked below the cliffs, it’s beautiful! Again, opt for driving yourself and be sure to spend lots of time out of the car; make stops wherever inspires you. Killarney makes a great home base, and you’ll want to devote at least a day to exploring the national park there.

Magnificent natural landscapes make West Cork a delight to visit. Schull, in particular, is one of the loveliest villages. While there, visit the Mizen Head Signal Station for a thrilling walk and view, and stop at gorgeous Barley Cove Beach for a stroll.

Galway City

Galway’s streets are lively and full of university students, though it feels like a very small city compared to Dublin. Stroll the streets, listen to the music and be sure to get some great seafood. If you’ve got more time here, spend a day visiting the Aran Islands. Treat everyone to one of their iconic sweaters and you’ll stay warm and cozy throughout your trip.

Driving through Connemara offers breathtaking scenery (I know we keep saying this, but it’s true!). Nestled behind the mountains is Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Gardens . The children will be delighted to see this amazing castle on the shores of Lough Pollacappul. There are lots of wooded paths to explore, and the walled gardens will inspire the gardener in you.

It’s clear: Ireland with kids is a family travel bucket list winner for a reason. So much to do, so much to see, so much beauty. Family-friendly Ireland vacations are a crowd pleaser and one of our favorite travel experiences.

Relevant Links

Browse all family-friendly accommodations and activities in Ireland on Ciao Bambino

8 of our favorite Ireland family hotels

From coast to coast in Ireland with kids

Dublin: 5 favorite kid-friendly activities

10 things to do in Ireland off the beaten path

A perfect 10-day itinerary in Ireland with kids

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We had an amazing trip to Ireland and Northern Ireland while I was pregnant and I can’t wait to take our toddler back! We stayed in some of the best B&Bs while I was there and I’ve put up some pictures and reviews on our website – https://goo.gl/wOuhdx

Love the review. Quick correction: The Blarney Stone is in Cork, not Waterford

Thanks for catching the blooper, JT! We’ve fixed that.

Amie- Thank you so much for the mention. IrelandWithKids.com is designed to help families plan a magical trip to Ireland. We visit annually (if not more often) and I do my best to lay out the good and bad of attractions, as well as tips for visiting. We are actually heading back to Ireland in May and exploring some new places!

Sadly no … but Michelle Duffy from Wandermom.com is a family travel blogger from Ireland and also has some wonderful Ireland related insight on her blog. Also, Jody Halstead publishes IrelandwithKids.com – another fabulous resource!

Do you have any idea what happened to mummymaps.com? It sounds like it was a great resource, but I am coming up empty when doing searches.

Great suggestions! We are heading to Ireland in May with our 3.5 and 1.5 year old boys and are planning to do some of the Western Ireland suggestions. We will be there for 9 days and will spend all of our time in the west. Can’t imagine trying to see the whole country in a week – especially with kids in tow!

Great overview. I would recommend the Dingle Peninsula with kids. It’s even prettier than the Ring of Kerry with ancient ruins to explore, stunning beaches to stroll, and the best ice cream in Ireland at Murphy’s in Dingle Town. Oh, and if you do plan to kiss the Blarney Stone, it’s not in Waterford. It’s in Blarney, north of Cork.

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Best things to do in Ireland with kids

Mar 28, 2024 • 6 min read

Kids will be as amazed as anyone at Ireland’s astonishing natural attractions © arkanex / Getty Images

With its lush green fields, dramatic coastline and magical castles, Ireland has long been on the discerning traveller’s bucket list.

But the famous Irish welcome is not just for adults: parents will find a land where its myths and legends come alive for their little ones and where the outdoors is the star attraction.

Is Ireland good for kids?

Travelling with kids in Ireland is easy and, as it’s a relatively small island, getting around is straightforward. Cars are best for getting out into the countryside, but the main cities and larger towns are served by train and bus from Dublin , the capital. Dublin is very stroller friendly but if you’re hitting the country’s walking trails or beaches, a baby carrier is advisable. There are playgrounds in most small towns but the country is a work in progress when it comes to providing public toilets and baby changing facilities.

“ Cead míle Fáilte ” means “one hundred thousand welcomes” in the Irish language and families and children are welcomed with open arms into most restaurants and pubs in the country. However, the law states that children can’t stay in bars past 9pm (10pm from May to September). Most restaurant menus have a separate kids’ menu and many hotels have family rooms or interconnecting rooms to cater for families.

If you don’t want to bring all your baby gear with you,  Stork Exchange is a baby and children’s equipment rental service based at Dublin Airport that uses quality brands only. Planning to visit several historic places? Buying a Heritage Ireland  Family Heritage Card for €90 could be a good-value option, giving you access to 50 historic sites and visitor attractions nationally. 

Navigate like a local with these tips for getting around

Where is best in Ireland for kids?

From the museums and galleries of Dublin to the rugged beauty of The Burren in County Clare; from the magic of visiting the Giant’s Causeway in County Antrim to digging with a bucket and spade on a remote beach in County Mayo , it’s easy to see why families will leave Ireland already planning their next visit.

This is Ireland, so history is written on every stone wall. The Little Museum of Dublin  gives a potted history of the Irish capital for all ages while EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum , tells you why the Irish have had such an impact on the world.

And if you’re seeking the freedom to run on a beach with the salt of the Atlantic stinging your skin, you’ll be spoiled for choice. From Keem Bay Beach on Achill Island in County Mayo to Narin Strand in Portnoo, County Donegal , there are stunning opportunities for beachcombing, paddling and sandcastle building. 

Read more:  The best time to visit Ireland

Best things to do in Ireland with babies and toddlers

Dublin Zoo  offers parent-and-toddler sessions to start children on their wildlife journey at various times of the year, and the Museum of Natural History  on Kildare St is the perfect spot to while away a rainy afternoon. The cafe at the National Gallery next door is perfect for refueling. 

Located in a magical woodland, Wild Ireland  on the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal is a unique wildlife sanctuary and home to many rescued animals including brown bears, wolves, lynx and wild boar. The paths are perfect for little legs and strollers.

Named after the gardener from County Wexford's  Wells Estate , Mogue’s Enchanted Woodland Walk has become home to numerous trolls, bears, fairies, witches and wizards. There's even a dragon hidden within the trees.

Go on a woodland adventure

Set in 32 hectares (80 acres) of natural woodland and featuring one of the country’s longest ziplines, Castlecomer Discovery Park  in County Kilkenny is a great place for kids to ditch the screens and immerse themselves in the outdoors. Its junior woodland course is suitable for kids aged three to seven, while kids over seven will love the Skywalk Challenge, an aerial adventure course.

The Treetop Walk at Avondale Forest Park  in  County Wicklow  culminates in a visit to a 38m-tall (125ft) viewing tower. Kids will also love the opportunity to descend via the country’s longest slide but queues are long in the summer months.  

Learn about the Titanic

Titanic Belfast  is where the sights, sounds and smells of the ill-fated cruise liner are brought to life in eye-watering detail.

Take to the dunes

Ards Forest Park Sand Dune Trail near Dunfanaghy, County Donegal is not only perfect for buggies but is ideal for little legs not ready to graduate on to more difficult hiking trails yet.

Cycle a greenway

The free 46km (29-mile) off-road Waterford Greenway stretches from the edge of Waterford city right down through the Comeragh Mountains and the Copper Coast and into Dungarvan. You can take it at your own pace and bikes are available for hire at the many hubs along the route. 

Best things to do in Ireland with tweens and teenagers

Learn to surf.

Opened in the summer of 2023, the National Surf Centre  at Strandhill, County Sligo , is home to three surf schools providing lessons for beginners as well as more-experienced surfers. Check out Kingdomwaves Surf School , which offers surf lessons and surf hire at both Inch and Banna beaches, two beautiful blue flag beaches in County Kerry . 

Free yourselves from an escape room

If the weather isn’t playing ball, try the Boda Borg escape-room-type challenge at Lough Key Forest and Activity Park  in County Roscommon. Over two hours, you'll go from room to room trying to solve the quests or complete the challenges.

Discover secret beaches

It’s hard to beat the sense of adventure that comes with seeking out a secret beach. There are no roads to Trá Mór outside Dunfanaghy in County Donegal, making its discovery all the more thrilling.

Find your inner thrill seeker

The Gobbins Cliff Path gives a real rush. Located around 30 minutes’ drive from Belfast along the Causeway Coast, this thrilling cliff walk, where bridges carry you over crashing waves to sunken caves, is accessible only by guided tour and takes about two hours. 

Planning tips 

One of the biggest considerations to make when planning a trip to Ireland is the weather. The Irish have a saying that there can be four seasons in one day for a reason, so pack your wet-weather gear, a pair of sturdy walking boots and a change of clothes. Phone signal can be unreliable, so download or take a hard copy of any maps you may need.

If your trip takes in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland , bear in mind you’ll need two different currencies; the Republic of Ireland uses the euro while Northern Ireland uses the pound.

Keep planning your trip to Ireland

Want the scoop on Ireland's top towns and cities? Here are the best places to visit . See more of Ireland on one of these classic road trips .

This article was first published May 2021 and updated March 2024

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Visiting Ireland with kids: all you need to know

All you need to know to plan a family trip to Ireland: info, recommendations and insider tips by a local mum to help you plan your perfect family vacation in Ireland.

I love traveling around Ireland with my kids.

We live in Dublin and even if Ireland is home for our family, we seem to never tire of admiring it with the eye of the visitor.

After 15 years here, I still explore with the same awe I had when I first set foot on Irish soil and my husband and kids, both born and raised here, seem to share the same experience.

It is from this specific point of you, that of the visitor turned local, that I write this post today.

It is my family guide to Ireland and contains all my best tips for visiting Ireland with kids.

Wishing you a wonderful Ireland family vacation!

Table of Contents

The best time to visit Ireland with kids: Ireland in each season

If you are planning a family trip to Ireland, you may have to arrange it around school holidays and if that is the case, you will be happy to hear that no matter when the school break falls, it can be a good time for visiting the Emerald Isle!

Ireland has a reasonably temperate climate, considering how far North it is, and while your experience of the place will be very different if you come in summer or winter, there is something fun to do in all seasons.

If you can choose, however, without a doubt some times are better than others to plan a trip to Ireland. In particular, it is useful to know the following.

The best time to visit Ireland is the spring / summer , and specifically the months between May and August.

At this time, Ireland his reasonably dry, you are likely to get nice sunny, bright days and the days are long, meaning you get a good amount of light for sightseeing well into the evening.

The summer is a great time to visit Ireland with kids who love sports and outdoor pursuits; hiking, zip-lining and adventure centers here abound!

Another fun time to visit Ireland with kids can be Christmas .

Christmas in Dublin, Galway and Cork, in particular, is lovely as they have some of the best Christmas markets in Ireland .

While undoubtedly a cold time, the cities dress up with Christmas decorations and it can be a fun time for shopping, meeting Santa, indoor play centers (there are many in the big cities) and hot chocolate!

Documents needed to enter Ireland with kids

The documents you need to enter Ireland depend on your country of origin.

Ireland is inside the EU but outside the Treaty of Schengen and this may affect your travels and require additional paperwork.

The best source of information for documents needed to enter Ireland is your nearest Irish embassy or consulate. You can find the complete list here (official sire of the Irish departments of Foreign affairs).

Good to know : if you are traveling to Ireland alone with a child with a surname different from yours, you may be asked to show their birth certificate stating you are their parent or an equivalent document that proves you are their legal guardian and are allowed to travel with them. I have been asked this document occasionally only but since it can happen, I believe it is important to know about it and be ready.

How to get around Ireland with kids: car, train or bus?

By far the easiest way to travel around Ireland with kids is by car.

Ireland has an ok network of buses and trains.

However, without your own vehicle, you are very much limited in your choice of accommodation.

In many cases, the most atmospheric and budget-friendly accommodation options in Ireland are a little away from the main centers and they can be hard to reach if you are relying on public transport and trains only.

If you can, a car in Ireland is your best friend!

You can find my tips for driving in Ireland here

If you prefer not to drive, another good alternative is taking day trips and day tours.

Ireland has a very good selection of days tours offered by several companies that allow you to visit many of Ireland’s main attractions without having to get behind the wheel.

In many cases, you can even choose a home base and simply take day trips from there: Dublin, Cork and Galway are all good options for this type of trip.

This is a quick selection of some of the most interesting offers.

Need to know: rules for the use of car seats in Ireland . The use of car seats in private cars is mandatory in Ireland for kids up to age 12. Make sure you book one when renting a car or bring your own! Taxis are exempt from this rule: if you only need to hop on a taxi on arrival, you may want to consider going without a seat. However, please be advised that the transfer from the airport to your hotel is likely to involve motorway driving.

Ireland sightseeing with kids: tackling Ireland’s main sites as a family

Ireland is very kid-friendly and many of the places you are likely to have on your Irland bucket list are easy to visit even with kids in tow.

Visiting Dublin with kids

Dublin is a very family-friendly city and I know its kid-friendly side very well, Dublin being our city!

If this is your first time visiting, I highly recommend you find a hotel in the city center and explore some of the city’s main sites as well as plan additional time just for the kids.

My tops things to see in Dublin with kids are Trinity College and the Book of Kells, Dublinia (interactive Viking Museum), Dublin castle and maybe surprisingly, the Guinness storehouse!

Kid specific attractions to seek out, in my opinion, are Stephen’s green park, the Dublin splash tour, the zoo and Imagnosity, Dublin’s children museum (outside of the center but great for a rainy day!)

Dublin has also many parks and playgrounds , perfect for a break from sightseeing.

Exploring Glendalough with children

Glendalough is a gorgeous monastic site only 40 Km from Dublin, in Country Wicklow.

It is a lovely place for sightseeing with kids as it has a lake and ample space to run around.

The best way to reach is by car. With kids, I suggest you skip the visitor center and simply walk towards the lakes and the monastic site.

The visit is free, the forest is lovely for a walk or a picnic (it is also stroller friendly if you have younger kids) and the Glendalough hotel has a decent, kid-friendly restaurant for food and facilities.

You can find mi tips for visiting Glendalough here.

The Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are one of the most famous attractions in Ireland and while they may not strike you as the most ki-friendly place (350 mt cliffs plunging into the ocean anyone?), they actually are a bit of a treat with kids.

The area is very well equipped for small visitors (they have a nice visitor center and cafe) and the cliffs are protected by tall slabs of rock that make them safe.

However, cautious here is needed: if you have over-enthusiastic kids, make sure they don’t run too far ahead and make sure they do not go on the parts of the path that are marked as unmanned!

While you ill see a string of adult visitors ignoring the warning signs, these paths are not safe and especially for kids, they can pose a real danger.

Good to know : not fr from the cliffs there are the Ailwee caves, a wonderful place for kids. Here, you can go on a guided tour of a real cave (easy, no experience necessary) and experience what total darkness is! It is slightly scary but also cool. You also have a falconry center in the same complex with really fun and educational flight displays of falcon and owls.

Driving the Ring of Kerry with children

The Ring of Kerry is a wonderful drive following the coast of the Kerry peninsula, in the West of Ireland and it is one of the most famous places and drives in the whole of Ireland.

It is indeed a lovely area and it can surely be visited with kids. However, it can also be hard to take.

The problem here is that the road is long and winding and while the scenery is stunning, you find yourself in the car a lot – this can be too much for many kids and frankly awful if they suffer from motion sickness.

If you want to visit Kerry with kids, I recommend you take a few days and break up the drive as many times as you need. Even better, you can explore the National Park with a home base in Killarney , which is lovely and family-friendly.

If you prefer not to tackle it at all but still see nice scenery, I would recommend considering Dingle or the Beara peninsula instead: they both have amazing scenery and require less time in the car.

Blarney Castle

Blarney Castle is one of the most famous attractions in Ireland and one of my favorite.

The castle itself is atmospheric, imposing and romantic, and towers above a stunning estate with gardens, forests and grottoes.

It is a fantastic place to spend a day outside with the kids and it is packed with stories and things to see: you will learn stories of the local witch and you will also have the chance to visit a poison garden. Super fun!

You can read our guide to visiting Blarney Castle with kids here .

Connemara is an area of great natural beauty and a very popular destination in Ireland not just for visitors but for local families.

It is an area many Irish people use as a base for the summer as it is remote, beautiful and not too awfully expensive.

Visitors usually want to see Kylemore Abbey and Clifden but families should also add a stop in a farm.

A stop in one of the local farms can be really fun for the kids and it can also be a way to tap into a slightly more local experience than what you get in main tourist sites.

You are also likely to meet many Irish families having a fun day out, which can be a fun way to make local friends and play for a few hours!

A fantastic place for families in Connemara is the Delphi centre and resort: this is a hotel and adventure center with lots of activities for kids and adults, in one of the most stunning locations in Ireland!

Newgrange is an incredible place for adults and kids and one I recommend visiting especially if you have school-age children who can appreciate the marvel of it.

A passage tomb dating back to the neolithic, Newgrange can only be visited by booking a guided tour.

I do not recommend it with little kids, who may find the dark and small space distressing, but it is a place school kids tend to love.

Good to know if you have toddlers with you: almost in front of it there is a nice farm open to visitors with animals and a nice cafe.

Please note: in 2020, visiting inside the tomb are suspended for health and safety reasons.

Kilkenny is a small city in the center of Ireland with a lot on offer for kids: a castle (with amazing playground ), a city train for tourists, lots of shops and restaurants and a plethora of outdoor certifies in the area such as kayaking!

We go to the city often, sometimes as a day trip from Dublin and sometimes for a weekend and the city never lets us down.

You can read why we love it and the best things to see in Kilkenny here .

Kids attractions in Ireland

As well as kid-friendly sightseeing, Ireland has many kid-centered attractions that I highly recommend you add to your Ireland itinerary.

Among the many, I recommend

Farms, castle and manor houses

Ireland has many castles, farms and manor houses now open to the public and often offering kids’ activities. Some we know and love are:

• Killruddery House and gardens (amazing play area and activities), Co Wicklow
• Russborough House (maze, falconry center, fairy walk, playground), Co Wicklow
• Avondale house (forest walk and playground), Co Wicklow
• Wells house (forest Gruffalo walk, archery, playground), Co Wexford
• Ardgillan castle (a fairy walk, playground), Co Kildare
• Malahide Castle (amazing playground), Co Kildare
• Birr Castle (playground, walk, an amazing science center and a historic, record-breaking telescope), Co Offaly
• Trim Castle (castle visit to feel king for a day), Co Meath
• Powerscourt House and Gardens (lovely manicured gardens with lots of space to run and Santa visits at Christmas), Co Wicklow

Parks and Adventure centers for kids

Over the last few years, adventure centers have pen up in several parts of the country and they can be real fun for kids.

Tayto Park is a theme park while the others are adventure centers with outdoor adventurous activities such as ziplining, treetop rope course and more.

Some we love are:

• Tayto Park , a kids favorite, super fun theme park (think rollercoasters etc)
• Castelcomer Discovery Park , Co Kilkenny
• Lough Key camping and adventure center , Co Roscommon
• Delphi Adventure Resort , Co Galway (great for a family weekend getaway too!)
• Kippure Adventure Center, Co Wicklow

Where to stay in Ireland with kids

Ireland has a vast choice of accommodation choices for families ranging from hotels to holiday rentals to guesthouses etc.

Hotels tend to be the most expensive option. They come in all shapes and sizes and often have good facilities for families including indoor pools, kids’ activities and restaurants onsite – very handy!

You can find here >>> our selection of the best family hotels in Ireland .

Guesthouses and B&Bs are smaller and have a more personal feel. They are usually in local homes and kids are welcome, although not all can accommodate 3 or 4 people in a room. My favorite website to book guesthouses and B&Bs is booking.com which allows choosing the best rooms for your party taking your kids’ age into account and also has good cancellation options. You can find deals and options here

Rentals can be a good option for longer stays

For all these bookings I usually trust booking.com which has always served us well and has amazing free cancellation policies on most properties. See all they have in Ireland here

Visiting an Irish pub with kids in tow

if you are in Ireland, chances are you may want to experience a real Irish pub and there is no need to skip on this just because you have kids.

While not all pubs are kid-friendly, many are: pick those that serve food and ask for a kids menu – many will surprise you with a good one!

Please note: In 2020, new rules have been introduced with timed slots for meals and pub visits. Make sure you make dinner plans in advance by ringing the pub or making a reservation online to secure a table.

What to pack for visiting Ireland with kids

You can find my packing lists for Ireland here, however, these are the main things I suggest you add if coming to Ireland with kids:

• Stroller for babies and toddlers. I recommend one with bigger wheels, so it can tackle country paths and longer walks. All terrain strollers are the best in Ireland as they seamlessly go from town to country.
• An extra change of clothes and shoes for rainy days
• Books about Ireland they can read as the go
• A small pair of binoculars for birds and wildlife

I hope you enjoyed this quick guide to visiting Ireland with kids and it helped you plan your Ireland family vacation. Safe travels!

Mama Loves Ireland

Céad míle fáilte! A thousand times welcome! I am a travel-loving Italian Mama lucky enough to call Ireland her home. Let my articles help you plan your trip to Ireland and get ready to fall in love with the Emerald Isle, just like I did. With love. M x

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Epic Ireland Family Vacation: 7-day Itinerary for Ireland with Kids

Posted by Anna | Aug 18, 2023 | Ireland , Family Travel | 1

The biggest highlight of this summer was our Ireland family vacation. If you are into fun, fast-paced trips, and love making the most of your time at a new destination – this 7-day itinerary for Ireland is for you.

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Our Ireland Family Vacation

To begin with, Ireland has always been one of the places in Europe that I wanted to visit the most.

Therefore, this summer our whole family was excited about making this trip happen. My kids haven’t taken a plane since the pandemic (although we have done two Mediterranean Cruises together and traveled extensively across Spain in search of new child-friendly destinations ). My husband wanted to celebrate his Bday with a memorable getaway. As for me, I have always been mesmerized by the Celtic myths, mysterious Irish castles, and ancient ruins.

So, even planning an Ireland family vacation felt special, since there were so many things we wanted to experience on this trip. I have tried to include a bit of everything into this 7-day Itinerary for Ireland: museums, nature, castles, places for the kids, a few guided tours, and even a mini road trip.

Nevertheless, those of you who have more than one week for this Ireland trip – can still easily use my itinerary, just without any rush.

Why visit Ireland?

Is Ireland for you? – Based on my Ireland family vacation, I have put together everything I genuinely loved about this country, so that you could check for yourself whether Ireland matches your personal expectations and travel cravings.

So, what makes Ireland unique?

Stunning landscapes

First of all, Ireland is an extremely beautiful country.

Its unique landscapes were featured in numerous iconic movies. You can watch them to fuel your wanderlust: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and The Princess Bride ( filmed – The Cliffs of Moher), Braveheart ( filmed – Trim Castle), Star Wars (filmed – Skellig Islands), Saving Private Ryan (filmed at Curracloe Beach), P.S I love you ( filmed – County Wicklow’s Blessington, Sally Gap, and Dublin). As to the Tv Shows – Normal People ( filmed – Sligo and Dublin), The Vikings (filmed – County Wicklow), and of course, there are lots of Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland.

Celtic cultural heritage

Ireland is known for its unmatched Celtic heritage since Romans have never conquered it (unlike the rest of Europe). Most of the things we know today about the lifestyle of the Celtic people are actually based on what Romans wrote about them (let´s take for instance, Julius Cesar´s memoirs of the Gallic Wars). Most European countries today, for instance, Spain – are full of Roman Ruins and legendary battle stories (like the one of Numancia in Soria ), but the Celtic People of Europe were absorbed by The Roman Empire at some point (some destroyed, others conquered).

But in Ireland, those original Celtic traditions have always been a part of national folklore and were passed through myths and legends to the next generations. A few Celtic landmarks we visited on this Ireland family vacation were absolutely unique – the Boyne Valley and The Rock of Cashel.

Irish roots

There are more people with Irish ancestry outside Ireland than in it.

Chances are high that you (or someone you know or admire) might have Irish roots. Ireland has lately got trendy thanks to genetic tests. Throughout the complicated and dramatic history of the Emerald Isle, many locals were forced to immigrate across the globe. As a result, today some of the biggest politics and pop icons have Irish roots.

Traveling to Ireland to discover the land of your ancestors has a unique personal touch. Plus, there’s a new interesting Dublin museum on this topic – The Museum of Immigration.

When to visit Ireland

Typically, late spring and early autumn are always the best for getaways in Europe.

However, my Ireland family vacation took place at the beginning of July. By and large, it was an enjoyable experience.

It might be just me ( living on the Mediterranean coast of Spain with everywhere getting extremely touristy during the summer months), but I didn´t suffer from the summer peak season during this Ireland family vacation. Obviously, Dublin was not empty. It has always been a popular city break destination for Europeans. But it was still fine (can’t even compare it to Madrid or Barcelona in the summer months).

So, to my surprise I felt like summer was a good moment to visit Ireland.

How much time do you need in Ireland

To see most of the landmarks in Ireland you’d need 2-3 weeks.

Yet, a 7-day itinerary for Ireland is a great chance to get your first impression of the country. Even though Ireland is a relatively small country and you can cover a lot of ground just in 7 days: if having one single week for this trip – you´d have to set your travel priorities and skip lots of national landmarks.

Nevertheless, it is all entirely possible. We were visiting Ireland with kids (4 and 5 y.o) and had a blast on the road. In fact, for family travels I lately prefer shorter trips (I feel like this way all of us get less tired).

What you need to know about Ireland

On the island of Ireland, you find two countries – the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

The first one is a part of the EU, and the second one – the UK. Consequently, in the Republic of Ireland, you’ll pay with euros, and in Northern Ireland – with pounds. While for now there´s no actual border control between the two, visa requirements might differ for both (depending on your country of origin).

Also, note that if you rent a car in Northern Ireland and then leave it in the Republic of Ireland (or vice versa) – you’ll be charged extra costs.

As you will see on this post: during this 7-day Itinerary for Ireland we briefly visited both countries – the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, and I haven’t regretted it.

How to get to Ireland

This whole idea of an Ireland family vacation was born by accident, while we were comparing our Europe Bucket List to the current flight deals . We discovered budget flight tickets to Belfast in Northern Ireland and decided it was time to make our dream trip happen.

While our flight was to Belfast, upon arrival we immediately took a bus to Dublin and left Northern Ireland for the end of our 7-day itinerary

The best way to reach Ireland is to find flights either to Belfast or to Dublin. From the States, there are seasonal flights to Londonderry (or Derry), but locals don’t recommend it. One of the taxi drivers told us the story of how he once drove to Derry an American couple all the way from Dublin (there was an error with the car booking, and they were forced to take a taxi for 600 euros just not to miss a flight back home).

Unique hotels in Ireland

During the research for our Ireland family vacation, I have discovered lots of cool places to stay and have marked them for the future trips to the Emerald Isle. Unfortunately, for this road trip, none of these srentals was a match for us (some were far away, others were fully booked). But I am sure it´s not my last time in Ireland anyway, so saved it all: Lough Mardal Lodge , Cosy stone built Thatch Cottage , Rural Tipperary bordering Kilkenny , Beautifully Restored Cottage , Roundwood House , Country lodge rental with wood burning stove . A few cute glamping places: Castledarcy Glamping , Ceide Glamping and Gateway Glamping .

Bucket-list tours&experiences in Ireland:

During this Ireland family vacation, we enjoyed the Northern Ireland Tour and The Celtic Boyne Valley Tour . Both were a great match in our case: we were able to see lots of new places without walking non-stop or staying inside the bus for too long.

Nevertheless, there are still a few more unique experiences left on my Ireland Bucket List:

• Newgrange Tour
• Fastnet Rock Lighthouse and Cape Clear Island Tour
• Irish Music and Dance Show with Dance Lesson
• The Ultimate Skellig Coast Cruise Tour
• Dublin Mythology and Folklore Walking Tour
• Dublin Local Food Tour
• From Galway: Aran Islands & Cliffs of Moher Day Cruise
• Game of Thrones Studio Tour
• Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough & Kilkenny Tour

If I get a chance to visit the Emerald Isle without kids (or perhaps, when they grow up a bit) – I would not miss the Game of Thrones Studio Tour , Irish Music and Dance Show with Dance Lesson , and Dublin Mythology and Folklore Walking Tour (even though my girls adore myths&legends, I felt like walking non-stop across Dublin might feel a bit exhausting for them).

Also, I would not miss the Skellig Coast and the Aran Islands Cruise , if we were to spend more than one week in Ireland.

Ireland for kids: Is Ireland good for a family vacation?

My biggest conclusion after this Ireland family vacation is the fact that this country is way more child-friendly than I have ever expected. Usually, as parents, we go for obvious child-friendly holidays – like a Mediterranean cruise or a family beach getaway to Spain . The Emerald Isle is known for its scenic cliffs, endless greenery, and mysterious castles. But since it is a rainy destination, I was honestly hesitating. To me, it was not clear whether my kids would enjoy it.

But they absolutely did. Here is why.

Friendly locals

I have come across a few travel opinions stating that the most friendly Europeans were in Iceland . Well, in my experience, they were in Ireland.

Especially when it came to the kids – my girls were given lollipops at train stations and hotel reception desks. My youngest daughter came up to me after a few days in Ireland with words: “ Mom, for some reason everyone loves us over here ..” lol

Let´s agree – it´s wonderful when locals make children feel this way.

Budget-friendly with kids

Overall, Ireland is not the most budget-friendly destination: the hotels are overpriced and have average quality. But when it comes to traveling with kids, Ireland actually wins over many other family travel destinations in Europe.

Large families are common across the country, so you can go with kids almost anywhere. The little ones under 6 years old always get in for free, whether it´s at landmarks or on public transport. The hotel breakfasts for the kids were free as well. In Jurry Inn Cork we were even given little handcraft gifts for the little ones.

Culture&legends in Ireland

Irish local myths and legends are infused with magical creatures. No wonder this Ireland family vacation was so culturally enriching and exciting for my little ones.

Even if you’re not a history geek yourself, I highly recommend you fuel your kids´ wanderlust before the trip with some Irish books and animated movies. I plan to make a separate post on Inspiring reads about Ireland , but in the meantime, you can check what we saw and read via my IG Highlight Ireland .

7-day Itinerary for Ireland with Kids

Day 1 – dublin.

I bet that almost every 7-day Itinerary for Ireland starts in Dublin since it´s the largest city in Ireland with the biggest international airport. (However, I honestly enjoyed flying to Belfast, since the airport was way smaller and we went through the controls fast).

Dublin is one of the most unique cities in Europe, famous for its pubs and commemorated in World Literature by James Joyce (although for many the U2 band might be the most famous thing from Ireland).

Dublin is an easy city to explore on foot since the 6 sq km around River Liffey contains most of the city´s museums and landmarks. We were staying at Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane . So, the first day of our Ireland family vacation started with a relaxing walk along River Liffey towards the city center of Dublin. However, a popular alternative to walking is River Liffey Sightseeing Cruise .

Note, that if you plan to stay in Dublin for a few days and want to see it all, you could get Go City All-Inclusive Pass with 40+ Attractions .

The first place we visited in Dublin was The Arc – a cultural center for children aged from 4 to 14. During our Ireland family vacation, there was a free temporary exposition dedicated to the animated movie Wolfwalkers . It was such a cool step into a world of hand-drawn animation. I loved getting a glimpse of the vast work involved in creating  Wolfwalkers : my girls were given paper and pencils to try to draw the main characters.

Hairy Lemon

Since this 7-day Itinerary for Ireland was initially planned as a child-friendly one, we knew that the Irish pub culture would need to wait for the next trips (kids are not allowed after 9 p.m. inside the pubs).

But we still wanted to have at least a nice lunch in a trendy local pub, so we picked Hairy Lemon . Both the food and service were great. I really enjoyed their Irish stew, and the kids tried Fish&Chips for the first time in their lives.

St.Patrick´s Cathedral

St.Patrick´s Cathedral is one of the most emblematic landmarks of Dublin, known for its association with writer and satirist Jonathan Swif t, who was a dean there.

The works on St.Patrick´s Cathedral began in 1190, but it is said that St. Patrick himself preached on this spot centuries earlier. Inside the cathedral there were lots of activities for the kids, so all of our family enjoyed the visit. Except for my husband, perhaps, whose attention was brought to the giant souvenir shop – so, he said that the place reminded him more of a giant fair, than of a religious cult.

We got in without a prior booking, but depending on the season, it might be helpful to get your entrance in advance .

The Library of Trinity College Dublin

The Library of Trinity College Dubl in is one of the most visited places in Dublin (you need to book a tour in advance ).

It contains one of the biggest Irish treasures – The Book of Kells , made by monks around 800. Kids were really excited to see it, especially after we watched together The Secret of Kells (2009).

However, I have to admit that as a bookworm and Harry Potter fan, I was even more excited to see the College Library with its magnificent barrel-roofed Long Hall.

So, you can imagine how disappointed I was to discover the library was empty due to their Old Library Redevelopment Project. I wish I had known this before buying tickets (especially since the entrance fee was 18.50 per adult).

For dinner, we headed to another popular food&drinks spot in Dublin – The Bank on College Green . Here, the name speaks for itself. Back in 1892, the building was acquired by Belfast Bank. Nowadays, the central banking hall with its Franco-Scottish interiors is a trendy bar and restaurant. While the menu was very brief, I really enjoyed their Irish Seafood Chowder (a traditional creamy seafood soup).

Unique Dublin Tours

If you want to make the most of your day in Dublin, booking a tour with the local guide might be an amazing idea. Check Dublin Walking Street Food Tour , Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour , Dublin Afternoon Tea Vintage Bus Trip , Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour , River Liffey Sightseeing Cruise , Jameson Whiskey Distillery Tour with Tastings . If I were traveling to Ireland without kids, I would love to experience Generation Pub Crawl and Music and Dance Show at The Irish House Party .

Experiences that I regret missing out and will definitely try on my next Ireland family vacation – Traditional Irish Dance Class , Mythology and Folklore Walking Tour , Ghostbus Kids Tour , and Irish Literature Walking Tour .

Popular foodie experiences in Dublin include Irish Craic & Cuisine: Cooking Class & Dinner with local host in Dublin home , Irish Whiskey Tasting with Local Whiskey Specialist in Irish Pub, Afternoon Tea the Irish Way, and Bread, Beer & Bia: Irish Cooking Class & Dinner.

Of course, beer lovers can not miss Guinness Storehouse .

Top Dublin Day Trips

Those of you who plan to spend in Dublin more than one day might enjoy a few unique day trips – Wicklow Mountains, Glendalough & Kilkenny , Coastal Tour to Howth Village , Blarney Castle Full-Day Tour from Dublin or Cliffs of Moher, Burren & Galway City Day Tour .

Day 2 – Ireland Road Trip

While one can easily spend a few days in the city of Dublin, we had a busy schedule for these 7 days in Ireland. So, on the second day of our Ireland family vacation, after breakfast at cute cafe Nutbutter Grand Canal Docks (where I got to embrace my inner porridge lover), we rented a car to set on a 3-day road trip across the island.

We were initially hesitating about renting a car in Ireland since the only time we have ever had to drive on the left-hand side of the road was in Cyprus years ago. However, it turned out to be easier than I expected (especially since we did not get to cross big cities with lots of traffic).

Nevertheless, the biggest challenge of driving in Ireland for me turned out to be its narrow countryside roads. Somehow we even scratched a car and got to use travel insurance for the first time in our lives. On this Ireland family vacation, we did not feel the need for a 4×4 at any time: I honestly felt like the smaller the car, the easier moving around was.

Athlone Castle

Our first stop on the road was Athlone Castle, which we initially picked only because it was on the road to the Cliffs of Moher . But all of our family enjoyed this landmark so much.

By the way, here, we had our first encounters with friendly Irish people. While desperately searching for the parking spots (there was some kind of event in Athlone when we visited), we almost gave up, but then one of the locals waved us out of nowhere to indicate the spot (since he had just parked nearby himself). Then he approached my husband explaining that there was some kind of event going on and it was usually not that busy ( since my husband was having a hard time with the Irish accent that´s all he could explain to us lol).

Surprisingly, the 13th-century Athlone Castle has turned into one of the highlights of this Ireland family vacation for the kids since they had lots of interactive panels, folk artifacts, and even medieval costumes to dress up.

Cliffs of Moher

One of my personal highlights of this 7-day itinerary in Ireland was visiting the Cliffs of Moher . As much as I love talking about the stunning cliffs in Spain , those in Ireland were the one and only for me.

These dramatic 214m-high cliffs, confronting the might of the Atlantic Ocean, are the horizontal layers of flagstones that extend for 8 km from Hag´s Head to beyond O’Brien´s Tower.

The Cliffs of Moher are open all year round, but winds are usually high during the winter months. We arrived around 4 p.m. and it was honestly not too crowded. While The Cliffs of Moher is a natural wonder available for anyone, the only place you can park nearby costs 12 euros per person (not per car). But I honestly felt it was worth it.

In case, you don’t want to drive in Ireland, there are lots of organized tours to the Cliffs of Moher from Dublin.

After a few hours at the cliffs we headed to our next road trip stop – Longcourt House Hotel in the small town of Newcastle West . This was probably the nicest hotel of our Ireland family vacation. Although I did not like that they accepted card payments only (like most of the hotels across Ireland, by the way) – a client should always have several payment options.

Especially since a few remote restaurants we visited on the road across Ireland, had problems with payment terminals. So, you can never fully rely on the card. Generally, I would suggest you always have a card for hotels and landmarks and some extra cash with you ( euro for the Republic of Ireland / pounds for Northern Ireland).

Day 3 – Ireland Road Trip

Ross castle.

Our morning started with a traditional Irish Breakfast at the restaurant of Longcourt House Hotel . Afterward, we drove all the way to the Killarney National Park . I definitely plan to return one day to drive the famous Ring of Kerry. But even getting a quick sneak peek of several local landmarks was worth making a stop.

A few popular experiences to book here are Private horse carriage tour of Killarney National Park and Ring of Kerry Full-Day Tour from Killarney .

First thing in the morning we headed to Ross Castle, a grand example of a medieval Irish stronghold. It was probably built in the 15th century by one of the O´Donogue Ross tribal chieftains. Boats from here will take you to Innisfallen Isle in the middle of Lough Leane (you should book ahead in the high season).

Since we have only planned to make a quick stop at Ross Castle, we got there before its opening around 9 a.m. The views were so serene – suddenly, were approached by a group of local deers. This was one of the most magical moments of our 7-day itinerary in Ireland.

Torc Waterfall

Only 9km away from Ross Castle, we enjoyed another must-stop of K illarney National Park – Torc Waterfall.

Here, I was initially a bit concerned about the parking (since I read on Google it was hard to find a spot). But I guess, since it was still relatively early (around 10 a.m) we found a place to leave our car easily and then walked a few minutes through the magical forests towards the Torc Waterfall.

I have honestly enjoyed this natural setting – there were a few hiking trails around the waterfall area (would be great to test those if having more time at Killarney National Park ).

Muckross House

The last stop before lunch was Muckross House – a splendid estate and the 19th-century Victorian Museum.

Since it was different from all the other places we planned for this Ireland family vacation, I was excited to get inside for the interiors. The tour cost 9 euros per person and even the kids really loved all the furniture and decor. There was a small child-friendly table with pencils and activity sheets (which included quizzes about the history of the Muckross House).

The Muckross House is currently owned by the state But it used to belong to the Herbert family, then was purchased by Lord Ardilaun . In 1910 it was purchased again by a wealthy American William Bowers Bourn as a wedding present for his only daughter Maud . After her death in 1932, the family sold the property to the state (since sustaining it had become too big an undertaking for any private individual).

It´s curious that back in 1861 Queen Victoria and Prince Albert stayed in The Muckross House during their trip to Ireland.

After visiting the Muckross House we drove to the restaurant The Kerry Way for lunch and then headed to our last stop of the day – Blarney Castle & Gardens.

Blarney Castle & Gardens

If I were to pick only one place to visit during this Ireland Family Vacation – I´d go with Blarney Castle & Gardens . You can easily spend here the whole day. In our case, we only had an afternoon to enjoy this place. If you plan to visit Blarney Castle & Gardens in the morning – you should book in advance, since it is one of the most popular places on the Emerald Isle.

Before planning this Ireland family vacation, I had honestly never heard of Blarney and had no idea that it was one of the most iconic places in the country. According to tradition, one can get a gift of blarney by kissing the Blarney Stone. Here, you’ll need to watch your kids, as they’ll be clambering to the top of the castle. Usually, the lines to kiss the stone are huge. But since we got inside only 1h30 min before the closing time, our family almost had the place to ourselves.

We did not kiss the stone, even though I usually enjoy following local legends and superstitions. Many believe that kissing Blarney gives you the ability to talk your way out of any difficult situation and give anyone the runaround. The phrase was coined by Queen Elizabeth I as she told the castle´s owner that he was speaking nothing but blarney , while he tried to avoid doing what she demanded.

Can’t stress enough how much I loved the surrounding 1000 acres of woodland and gardens. My kids could not stop playing fairies. Although, here, at Blarney Castle & Gardens I have followed another local legend of the Wishing Steps . According to it, one is supposed to walk down back up with eyes closed and ask for a wish that would be granted in a year by the Blarney Witch .

After this magical afternoon at Blarney Castle & Gardens , we headed to our hotel Jury Inn in Cork . After the check-in, we went for dinner and walked around the city center of Cork. Popular activities in Cork include Guided Historical Walking Tour, Harbour Scenic Cruise , and Midleton Distillery Tour with Whiskey Tasting.

We honestly didn’t click with the city of Cork. It was Thursday around 8 p.m. and the main street was full of drunk people (to the extent that some could barely walk). I don’t know whether it was our luck, or that was what a regular evening in Cork looked like. One of our Irish guides had once made a joke that there was a nasty rumor about the Irish drinking a lot – so not true, since the Irish always spill most of it …

Anyway, if I will get a chance to visit Cork again, I plan to use it to make a Full-Day Guided Tour to Dingle Peninsula .

Day 4 – Ireland Road Trip

On the last day of our Ireland Road trip, we were supposed to return to Dublin and leave a car at the airport. But we still had a whole day for sightseeing.

Cahir Castle

First thing in the morning we headed to Cahir Castle, one of Ireland´s largest and best-preserved castles.

It was founded by Conor O´Brien in 1142 and passed on to the Butler family in 1375. The Cahir Castle has survived nearly intact through centuries, largely because it surrender to Cromwell in 1650 without a fight. Kids really enjoyed the Cahir Castle Siege 1599 in miniature, where certain areas were lightened up after pressing the button.

Rock of Cashel

If I were to pick my second favorite place for this Ireland family vacation, that would be the Rock of Cashel.

This landmark possesses the most impressive cluster of all the medieval buildings in Ireland. According to the legend St.Patrick himself came here to convert a local king to Christianity.

Since the 9th century, Cashel even rivaled Tara as Ireland´s center of power. It all lasted till the 10th century when the local clan lost to O´Brians , and in 1101 the King gave this place to the Church. It was a great ecclesiastical center until Cromwell ´s army killed here 3000 Catholic devotees back in 1647.

Our last stop on the road to Dublin was the picturesque town of Kilkenny, considered one of the most attractive medieval towns in Ireland. Here, we enjoyed lunch at Kyteler´s Inn , a local medieval tavern trading back to 1324. However, I was a bit disappointed that during the day everyone was seated at their Courtyard Bar , which I did not like. But to access the toilets you´d walk through their medieval-tavern room and it all looked really cool.

Kilkenny turned out way more touristy than we expected. While walking around the center we made a stop at a local bookshop Khans Books Limited , where I got a coloring book Book of Kells for the kids, as well as a few new reads for the road.

One of the top local landmarks is Kilkenny Castle. But as it was really busy with the visitors, we decided to hit the road back to Dublin earlier in order to have some rest before the next few days.

In Kilkenny, you have a few interesting guided tour options – Historical and Hysterical Guided City Walking Tour and Historical Highlights Walking Tour .

After arriving at the Dublin Airport we left the rented car and headed to Maldon Dublin Airport Hotel . The initial plan was to take the bus from Dublin Airport to Belfast the next evening (after the Boyne Valley Tour ). But things got a bit complicated…

Day 5 – Boyne Valley Organized Tour

While I usually prefer traveling independently, for this Ireland family vacation we thought of reducing the days of driving and booking a few organized tours instead.

I initially thought of Newgrange Tour , but it was sold out (even though I was booking 2 weeks before the actual trip: so maybe, should have done it earlier). But another exciting alternative we found was The Celtic Boyne Valley Tour .

For this Boyne Valley Tour was a bit concerned about the kids since they don’t always have the patience to listen to the guides on the subject of history.

Plus, the last time I recall us doing a guided tour was at the Mommies Museum of Quinto during the Aragon road trip – we did not make it to the end (even though it was in Spanish and the whole subject of mommies tends to grab kids’ interest way better).

But the whole tour experience turned out surprisingly good. Our local guide David was extremely knowledgeable, and we were able to learn more about the culture and history of Ireland. Plus, lots of comments were made on the bus while the kids were busy painting, so it was easy to attend. At times, I was even translating a few stories and legends for the little ones (since they are only learning English).

During this Celtic Tour along Ireland’s Ancient East, we explored the Boyne Valley situated in County Meath (from where the high kings of Ireland ruled). We made stops at the Neolithic tombs of Loughcrew , Hill of Tara , Trim Castle , and Fore Abbey .

The only drawback of the day was the weather.

For the first time on this Ireland family vacation, I realized how lucky we were with the weather before. The heavy Irish rain caught us at the Hill of Tara . All of us were wearing waterproof boots, pants, and jackets. Additionally, I had an umbrella. But since it was also windy, the raindrops were coming from everywhere and everyone got wet. However, our guide comforted everyone that he had done the same tour under worse conditions.

While I was still preparing our 7-day itinerary for Ireland, I obviously read lots of other travel stories, most of which were full of statements like: “ We planned to do this, but it started to rain ”. At first, I could not get it: I mean, you have waterproof everything , what´s the problem? – But now, based on this personal experience, I understand how the Irish rains perform.

For what it´s worth, the day did not end with the bad weather. After the tour, which ended around 5 p.m., we were supposed to pick up the suitcase and take a bus back to Belfast . But to our huge surprise, there were no tickets online (due to a local football game everything was sold out and the city´s public transport collapsed).

This was the most stressful moment of our Ireland family vacation.

Since there were no bus or train tickets to Belfast available online , we took a taxi to the train station and bought tickets there. At the info desk, they warned us that the train would be extremely full ( everyone was returning home after the game in Dublin). I was already imagining sitting on the suitcases with the kids during the ride, but it had turned out surprisingly well.

I could even say that we enjoyed traveling from Dublin to Belfast by train more than we did by bus (as it was way more spacious).

After arriving in Belfast, we took a taxi to the Leonardo Hotel . At Belfast train station they had a curious taxi-call system : there was a public phone – you would pick it up and it would automatically call the operation center, so you´d get a taxi sent under your name.

My first impression of the night in Belfast was honestly a bit alarming. At our hotel, there was a double security check at the entrance (which I do not recall anywhere else in Europe). So, I immediately started to research online whether Belfast was actually safe.

Day 6 – Northern Ireland Organized Tour

The following day we woke up very relaxed since we had booked a Northern Ireland tour that started around 10 a.m.

Being early birds we had plenty of time for an excellent breakfast in Belfast before the tour. This was when I started to notice the beautiful architecture of Belfast . If Dublin city center was more about pubs and small colorful buildings, the facades of Belfast were tall and sophisticated.

The tour bus picked us up near the hotel and we headed to our first stop in Northern Ireland – The Dark Hedges , one of the emblematic Game of Thrones filming locations.

The Dark Hedges is an avenue of beech trees along Bregagh Road. My kids really loved the mysterious legend about this place: it states that the hedges are often visited by a local ghost Grey Lady, who travels across the road while flitting across it from tree to tree.

Our next stop of the day was Giant´s Causeway – one of the most-visited landmarks in Northern Ireland and a World Heritage Site (as well as a GOT filming location).

Once there, you could clearly notice that Giant´s Causeway is the number one local tourist attraction. We spent 1.30 hours exploring the polygonal columns of layered basalt rocks and caves, formed by a volcanic eruption 60 man-years ago. There was a bus taking travelers to the Giant´s Causeway from the visitors center, but we opted for a 15-minute walk (since there was a long line to get on the bus and none of us wanted to wait).

Giant´s Causeway is known for an ancient local legend of Finn McCool . My kids enjoyed it so much that I later bought them the book in Belfast .

By and large, both The Dark Hedges and Giant´s Causeway were way more touristy than anything else we have previously visited during these 7 days in Ireland. It was a surprise to me – I would have honestly placed all of my bets on The Cliffs of Moher being the top-visited site of the Emerald Isle.

The last stop of our Northern Ireland tour was Dunluce Castle : the dramatic ruins on a rocky chalk headland, dating from the 15th and 17th centuries.

Since the tour ended up around 4 p.m. we still had plenty of time to walk around Belfast’s city center. Here, I shopped for souvenirs at Carrolls Irish Gifts . It was not any more budget-friendly than the usual airport souvenirs. But I loved the wide variety. Also, we made a stop at a local bookshop Waterstones (which I loved so much) for new Irish children’s books.

Day 7 – Belfast

On the last day of our Ireland family vacation, we left the suitcases at the reception desk to enjoy the last moments in Belfast .

Thanks to our late flight back to Spain, we had the whole morning to take the kids to W5 – one of the coolest interactive museums I have seen in my entire life.

While the top sight of Belfast is definitely the Titanic Museum , we were not sure whether the little ones would enjoy it. But with W5 I was honestly impressed even myself: we could barely drag the kids out, they were having a blast and did not want to leave. It was definitely one of the highlights of the whole Ireland trip for them. You can check more details via my IG Highlight Ireland .

Souvenirs from Ireland

I do not recall bringing that many souvenirs from any of my recent trips.

Our family enjoyed this Ireland family vacation so much that we wanted to bring a piece of the Emerald Isle back home to Spain. Aside from local souvenir shops and Irish books , I have discovered a few unique local businesses and craftspeople.

Magee offers a beautiful collection of Irish clothing and accessories while being present on the market since 1866. I especially loved their cozy throws and tweed caps .

Irish socks looked so comfy that I could not resist and bought a few pairs for me, Carlos, and my parents. IrishTweedStore and KinsaleCrafts both offer cute collections of warm socks from Ireland.

Inside the St. Patrick’s Cathedral, I got a pair of Silver Emerald Shamrock earrings for each of my girls (I secretly wear these myself cause they are so beautiful) – SilverRainSilver and CelticJewelryDesign offer similar designs. You can find the most unique Irish Jewelry at IrishJewelleryGifts . If you like ceramics, check Celticclaysireland to shop for traditional Irish pottery. GiftsofIrelandCrafts and CeltGift offer a wide selection of different gifts from Ireland.

Here are a few more cool shops to find handmade Irish gifts and support local craftspeople: KateIrishTweedStore , GAELDesignStoreIre , MiniInish , TheDribblyYak , DonegalNaturalSoap , QuillsWoollenMarket , and EIREMusic . I so regret discovering TheCrochetDollGifts late – these could have been the most memorable gifts from Ireland for my girls.

By and large, I loved how this 7-day itinerary for Ireland has turned out.

It was definitely a fast-paced trip, but except for the Dublin-Belfast return trip, it all went on really smoothly. We were able to test both driving and organized tours in Ireland, try local foods, and explore the most iconic landmarks.

For me, Ireland felt like a very child-friendly destination, a perfect one to bring along the family. We definitely plan to return one day to see more of the Emerald Isle.

The most crowded landmarks were the ones of Northen Ireland. At the same time, in my opinion, it was Belfast , having the most interesting places for kids (rather than Dublin ).

While we have only visited W5 in Belfast , I am currently considering planning another 4-day getaway to Belfast with kids in order to visit all we had no time for:

• Belfast Walking Food Tour
• Ulster Museum
• Crumlin Road Gaol  – Belfast’s infamous prison, during a tour you get to explore the jails cells, execution chamber and graveyard, as well as to learn about the prison’s 150-year history
• Political Taxi Tour to explore the murals
• Botanic Gardens
• Belfast Zoo
• Colin Glen Forest Park ( the official Gruffalo trail)
• Andersonstown Leisure Center
• Aunt Sandra Candy Factory
• Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park
• Lagan Valley LeasurePlex
• Railway Preservation Society of Ireland
• Interactive Sensory Cocktail Experience in Belfast
• Game of Thrones Studio Tour Admission and Transfer from Belfast

For more travel tips check my Pinterest boards Europe Travel and Ireland .

For more travel stories check  my Pinterest boards   Best of At Lifestyle Crossroads and Europe Travel

• Accommodation : For short stays, I usually book via Agoda , Booking , and Hotellook
• Tours&excursions : My favorites for guided tours are GetYourGuide and Viator
• City breaks&sightseeing: Go City helps to avoid multiple entry fees and paper tickets
• Travel Insurance : find the best trip insurance plans via VisitorsCoverage , EKTA , and Insubuy
• Flights : To find the best deals I like WayAway and Aviasales
• Airport Lounge: Get independent airport lounge access worldwide via   Priority Pass
• Train&bus tickets : Currently, I book via RailEurope , Omio , and Busbud
• Car rental: To find the best deals I use Rental Cars , Discover Cars , and GetRentalCar
• Transfers: For individual transfer services I like Kiwitaxi
• For Foodies:  Eatwith  is great for finding culinary experiences with locals
• Suitcases&Luggage : To eliminate problems of early arrivals/late departures I find helpful Radical Storage
• Compensation for delayed/canceled flights: AirHelp is useful for all flight cancellation or delay claims
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• Budget-friendly stays: Check   Hostelworld to find the best deals around the world
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Traveling in Spain non-stop is my biggest obsession. Looking for Spanish hidden gems and local travel tips? - You are in the right place! Let me be your insider guide to Spain!

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Epic itinerary! Your Ireland family vacation guide is a treasure trove of practical tips and scenic wonders. Thanks for sharing, ready to turn your recommendations into unforgettable family memories!

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The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Ireland

Create lasting memories.

Are you in search of the perfect family vacation that combines adventure, relaxation, and quality time with your loved ones? But is planning a trip too much of a hassle? Well, we have analyzed all of the best organized all-inclusive family-friendly tours for Ireland based on key criteria such as guest ratings, prices, tour length, and of course, kid-friendly activities for children under 18. The mission of the selected tours below is to ensure that your family's vacation is not only enjoyable but also stress-free, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: creating unforgettable memories together. Great for museums & attractions, family-friendly activities, and budget-friendly accommodations, Ireland is a terrific destination. Simply sit back, relax, and cherish the moments spent together as you explore the beauty that Ireland has to offer. So why wait? Book one of these amazing tour packages today and get ready to create lifelong memories as you explore the wonders of Ireland together with your loved ones.

Long cliff walks, castles, stunning beaches, gardens, lighthouses, and terrific museums are all some of the best things to do with families in Ireland. In Dublin, you'll find the Imaginosity Childrens Museum, the Dublin Zoo, the Natural History Museum, and Dublin Castle to name a few. Not far from Dublin you can find more castles, the Medieval Museum in Waterford, and Viking history. On the west coast, don't miss the cliffs of Moher, with their epic views, or the ancient stones of the Burren. And the small towns of the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula are fun for everyone, too.

• The Best Of Ireland 8 Days, $1049.00
• ONE FOR THE ROAD 15 Days, $2219.63
• From Dublin to London 9 Days, $1799.00

What types of child-friendly tours are available in Ireland?

Here are the important factors:

• 114 trip options analyzed
• $283 average price per day (USD)
• 3 to 16 days in length
• 4.64 of 5 average rating
• 35 people or less on average

Curious about the diverse range of family-friendly tours? Prepare to be amazed by the array of options available to suit every traveler's preferences. It comes as no surprise that visitors adore these tours, given their exceptional average guest rating of 4.64 out of 5 stars. When it comes to group sizes, the average maximum capacity stands at 35 people, allowing for a comfortable and sociable experience. The shortest tour is 3 days, while the longest is 16 days. As for physical activity options, the tours are thoughtfully categorized as easy and moderate, with the most being easy. For transportation , the tours are marked as coach / bus, self drive, and train & rail, with a prevalent number on coach / bus tours. With a comprehensive analysis encompassing 114 family-friendly tours, you can rest assured that Ireland has something tailored to your interests and preferences, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best Family-Friendly Tours in Ireland

The best of ireland.

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for family-friendly tours.

This exceptional trip offering by Indus Travels has received a 4.5 out of 5 rating. On this 8-day trip you can unwind while also making new memories. Along the way, this journey encompasses 5 destinations, including Galway, Connemara National Park, and Ring of Kerry. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Dublin. With a group size of 4 people, it's suitable for travelers from 9 to 80 years old. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $131 per day.

ONE FOR THE ROAD

Check out this trip that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 4.5 out of 5 rating. This itinerary covers 4 captivating destinations, with stops in Cork and Killarney, among others. Dublin will be both the start and end of your journey. Spanning across 15 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 250 participants, and it's great for travelers from 2 to 75 years old. Brought to you by the renowned Interrailing Packages , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $148 per day - an unbeatable value.

• Train & Rail

From Dublin to London

• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

This 9-day voyage, visiting Ireland, Wales, and England, is ideal for travelers from 5 and up. And priced at only $178 per day, it's a great value, too. You're in for an epic adventure with a strong emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 13 destinations, featuring Ring of Kerry, Killarney, Blarney, and Tramore. Beginning in beautiful Dublin, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in London. It's offered by Cosmos , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

• Sightseeing
• In-depth Cultural

Celtic Connections Self-Drive

Priced at just $147 per day, this terrific 15-day voyage, visiting Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Ireland, is ideal for travelers from 8 to 90 years old. Uncover the beauty of 12 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Connemara National Park, Ring of Kerry, Kilkenny, and Wicklow. Edinburgh will mark the start of your journey, while Dublin will serve as its final destination. Organized by the reputable Indus Travels , this is one of the best tours on this list.

Irish Discovery

Check out this incredible voyage that has received a 5 out of 5 rating from previous guests, visiting Ireland and Northern Ireland. With an emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities, you know you'll have an amazing adventure. With a duration of 9 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 50 people, and is good for travelers from 5 and up. Traverse through 20 enchanting destinations, with Enniscorthy, Downpatrick, Belfast, and Giants Causeway among the must-see stops along the route. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Dublin. This fantastic option, organized by Cosmos , presents an unbeatable value at just $189 per day.

• Coach / Bus

Evergreen Ireland South - 7 Days/6 Nights

Spanning over 7 days, this voyage has a maximum size of 44 individuals. Welcoming travelers from 8 and up, it is organized by CIE Tours , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. This trip visits 7 destinations, including Blarney, Waterford, Cliffs of Moher, and Killarney along the way. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Dublin. Available at an unbeatable price of only $171 per day, this option also has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars from previous guests.

North of Ireland Escape (22 destinations)

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional trip, visiting Ireland and Northern Ireland, that has garnered a 5 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 7 days, this jouney will have 46 participants, and it warmly welcomes travelers from 5 to 80 years old. Rest assured, this trip is all about local culture and family-friendly activities, guaranteeing an unforgettable adventure. Expertly organized by Globus , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $171 per day.

Irish Escape

This memorable trip is offered by Globus which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 5 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $171 per day. Explore 11 incredible locations on this trip, including Ennis, Adare, Killorglin, and Ring of Kerry. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Dublin. This extraordinary adventure also revolves around local culture and family-friendly activities. The maximum group size is 46 people, welcoming travelers from 5 to 80 years old.

Highlights of Ireland & Scotland

Set off on an extraordinary journey, visiting Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Scotland, that has been awarded a 4.9 out of 5 stars by previous guests. This terrific trip also highights local culture and family-friendly activities. With a duration of 12 days, this journey offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 50 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to travelers from 5 and up. Discover a journey that spans 25 destinations, with notable stops in Pitlochry, St Andrews, Kilkenny, and Waterford. Beginning in beautiful Dublin, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in Edinburgh. Brought to you by Cosmos , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $197 per day.

3-Day Discover Northern Ireland Small-Group Tour from Dublin

With this option you can experience an unparalleled trip for 3 unforgettable days, visiting Ireland, Northern Ireland, and England. It ensures an intimate group setting with 16 participants at most. This trip takes you on an adventure to 8 destinations, including Giants Causeway, Portaferry, Belfast, and Bangor. Your adventure starts and ends in Dublin. Rabbie’s Small Group Tours , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests travelers from 5 and up. You're in for an epic adventure with a strong emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $221 per day.

See also The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Ireland , The Best Historical Tours in Ireland , The Best 10-Day Tours in Ireland , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Ireland , The Best 3-Day Tours in Ireland , The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Ireland , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Ireland , The Best Adventure Tours to Ireland , The Best Eco Tours in Ireland , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Ireland , The Best Cultural Tours in Ireland , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Ireland , The Best Self Drive Tours in Ireland , The Best Walking Tours in Ireland , The Best Luxury Tours to Ireland , The Best Budget Tours to Ireland , or The Best Tours for Seniors to Ireland for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Dublin , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dublin , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Killarney , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Galway , The Best 10-Day Tours from Dublin , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Dublin for more package tour options.

How much do family-friendly tours to Ireland cost?

After analyzing 114 family-friendly tours in Ireland, we found the average price to be a remarkably economical $283 per day. Naturally, this region has many fantastic options for family-friendly tours with a variety of prices. The individual costs will vary by the destinations, travel style, available dates, and other factors. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Ireland .

And for more information on Ireland, see Ireland Travel Costs and Ireland Hotel Costs .

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Best family vacations in Ireland

By Europe specialist Lily

Turreted castles like something out of a fairytale, wide-open countryside ideal for burning off pent-up energy, and hands-on experiences that range from Gaelic games to medieval banquets — Ireland is ideal for families who are intrigued by tradition and eager to get out into the wilderness.

Whether you’re visiting the Emerald Isle to retrace ancestral footsteps or simply to experience new cultures and landscapes without the complication of a language barrier, I’ve recommended some of the best places in Ireland for family vacations along with things to do while you’re there.

Dublin for families

Ireland’s capital is best known for its traditional pubs and breweries, but there’s plenty of family-friendly fun to be had too. That said, much of what there is to do and see in Dublin is better suited to children eight and above. If you have younger children, a night or two in the city will likely suffice — enough to unwind after your flight before heading out to the countryside in Killarney, where there’s plenty more space to run free.

With older children, there’s a lot more to do. You could take a tasting tour through the city, sampling sweet treats with a local chef, food writer, or critic. Or head out on an e-bike to cover more ground, passing by the castle, cathedrals, and Georgian streets of Dublin. I can arrange this as a private tour so your guide can slow down the pace, take quieter paths, or make extra storytelling (and snack) stops along the way.

For a more in-depth (but darker) introduction to Dublin’s history, head to Kilmainham Gaol, a former prison that held some of Ireland’s most prolific political and military leaders. The guides are very engaging as they share the stories of the prisoners and, more generally, the Irish people’s struggle for independence. As such, I’d only recommend it for children who aren’t particularly sensitive or easily frightened. But if they’re fascinated by history, warts and all, it’s well worth a visit.

Finally, if you’re in Ireland to return to your roots, EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum is a must-see. Besides browsing the many interactive exhibits that delve into what it means to be Irish, you can also spend time with a genealogist. They’ll research your ancestry ahead of time for an in-depth look into your family heritage, an experience that sets the scene for the rest of your time in Ireland — and no doubt long after you return home.

Best family-friendly stays in Dublin

The Davenport is very central, just a ten-minute walk from Grafton Street, Trinity College, and O’Connell Street. There’s also a nearby park with a playground. Most room options can include a crib or an extra fold-out bed, so it’s ideal for smaller families. If you need more space, though, I suggest the interconnecting rooms at the equally central (albeit less characterful) Radisson Blu Royal Hotel.

Killarney for families

Moss-green mountains reflected in pools of inky water, herds of deer grazing in the long grass, and an ivy-covered mansion that once hosted Queen Victoria — Killarney will be your first foray into Ireland’s untamed countryside, and I find the dramatic scenery has a way of capturing the imagination of all ages.

For small children, there’s ample space to run and play during short outings into the national park and the chance to watch sheepdogs rounding up their flocks at a local farm. Older children and teenagers can enjoy more adventurous pursuits. I can arrange for you to head out on a guided kayaking tour to the tiny Innisfallen Island on Lough Leane or take a two-hour ‘jaunting’ ride in a horse-drawn cart.

Around 45 minutes away in Kenmare, there’s another opportunity to get out onto the water. This time, just after sunset, when the bioluminescent plankton lights up the water in sparks of electric blue, as if by magic.

If getting to bed early isn’t an issue, I can also book tickets for you all to go and watch Celtic Steps, an Irish music and dance show so upbeat and sparkly that you can’t help but clap and bob along.

Best family-friendly stay in Killarney

Perhaps one of the best child-friendly hotels in all of Ireland, the 19th-century Great Southern Killarney has large family rooms with bunk beds, interconnecting rooms, an onsite playground and playroom, and a swimming pool. There’s also a babysitting service if you’d like to take a quiet stroll in the landscaped gardens or relax at the spa.

County Clare for families

Evoking scenes from fairytales, fantasy novels, and period dramas, the castles and manor houses of County Clare are a hit with children and parents alike. You can even stay at one, allowing you all to indulge in the world of make-believe.

There are plenty of ways to keep children entertained within the grounds of your period hotel (more on that below), but to immerse yourselves further in times gone by, you can spend the evening at the 15th-century Bunratty Castle for an elaborate medieval-style banquet.

More than a feast, the evening unfurls into rambunctious storytelling, Irish music, and a chance to interact with the ‘Earl’ himself. While it’s very interactive, it does involve a lot of sitting and there’s no separate children’s menu (though eating with hands is more than encouraged), so I typically recommend the experience for ages eight and above.

County Clare is also home to the Cliffs of Moher, sheer, ocean-battered rock faces that plunge into the Atlantic on one side and plateau into a carpet of emerald-green grassland on the other. I’d say a visit here is best suited to children who have a love for the great outdoors and don’t mind spending a while admiring the view. It might also help that the cliffs featured in a pivotal scene in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.

You can take a boat out onto the ocean to see the cliffs from the water, but it often gets canceled due to the weather. To avoid disappointment (and potential sea sickness), I think it’s best to gaze out across the Atlantic from the lofty clifftop instead. There are pathways suitable for various levels of fitness and mobility, and walled areas for viewing at a safe distance. Before you visit, you could read up on some of the myths and legends that encircle these famed cliffs, from sunken cities to the Moher mermaid, helping to make your visit all the more magical.

Best family-friendly stays in Country Clare

Dromoland Castle , just outside Ennis, offers family rooms for up to three children, as well as interconnecting rooms in the newer annex. There are also plenty of activities to try within the grounds, including falconry, fly-fishing, and a woodland fairy trail for smaller children.

Adare Manor is another of my favorite stays for families — not quite a castle, but still as grand (and, personally, I think the decor here is a little fresher).

Galway for families

A port town on Ireland’s west coast, Galway is a lovely setting for a family stroll, with its multi-colored streets alive with music and cafe culture. But, it’s what lies just outside the town that I think will entice little ones the most, including one of my top recommendations for things to do in Ireland with family.

Just a 15-minute drive from the city is Liam Mellows GAA Club. At first glance, it’s nothing special, just a regular-looking sports center with indoor and outdoor playing fields. But it’s where your family can partake in your own Gaelic games. Hurling, handball, football (the Gaelic kind), and rounders are all on the agenda — as well as a good dose of competitive spirit. It’s a surefire way to burn off some energy, giving you a chance to relax come dinnertime.

Galway is also a gateway for exploring nearby Connemara National Park, where stocky native ponies roam the grasslands. I suggest spending a day driving and walking around the countryside, stopping by the tiny rural villages for lunch to get a glimpse into traditional Irish culture.

Another outing you might like to take is to Inis Mor, one of the three Irish-speaking Aran Islands. It’s about an hour on the ferry from Galway, and it can be choppy, in case any of you suffer with sea sickness. Once there, you can go cycling or take a horse and cart ride around the island, soaking up its vast karst landscapes and stone-walled patchwork fields as you go. You’ll head out with a local guide who grew up there and can regale your family with stories of island life and point out the resident wildlife along the way.

Best family-friendly stays in Galway

If you’re traveling with teenagers or adult children, you can’t go wrong with the g Hotel & Spa. It’s very modern and funky, and there are interconnecting suites, if you need them.

For younger children, there are two options I recommend: The Galmont , if you want to stay near the city center, or Glenlo Abbey , if you want to stick with heritage houses in the countryside. Both have family and interconnecting rooms.

Sligo for families

The laid-back town of Sligo is the place to go if your family is musical — or if you simply want to uncover more of Ireland’s cultural heritage. The surrounding coastal countryside is also ripe for adventure backdropped by mountains, loughs, and cliffs so striking they were the inspiration behind many of Nobel Laureate W B Yeats’s poems.

During your trip, you’ll likely watch an Irish dance show or two, but, here in Sligo, you and your children can learn to do it yourselves. I’ll pair you with a private instructor, who can adapt the class to suit your children’s ages. Soon enough, you’ll all be skipping around to the beat of the bodhrán, a traditional Irish drum, which you can have a go at playing, too.

Alternatively, I can arrange for a musician to come to your hotel and play a few tunes, giving your children the option to dance along if they please or play games among themselves while you sit back and enjoy.

Out in the wilderness, you can kayak on the woodland-fringed Lough Gill or go horseback riding along the Wild Atlantic Way. Your private guide will carefully match each of you with a horse and will slow down or speed up the ride as you wish. As you plod (or trot) along country tracks and sandy beaches, you’ll discover more about the history, mythology, and ecology of the landscapes around you.

Best family-friendly stays in Sligo

Close to the city’s restaurants, shops, and museums, the Glasshouse Hotel tops my list for families with older children or babies. There are no family rooms, but they can provide a crib for infants and there are connecting rooms available, too.

The Radisson Blu is a little further out but offers family rooms for up to two children if you want to keep the little ones close by.

Belfast for families

Though Belfast is part of the UK, it’s just a two-hour drive from Dublin and crossing the border is simple (you just need your passport). If you have teenagers or adult children, I’d definitely add on a couple of days here.

For food-loving families, there’s a walking tour of the city that can be tailored to your tastes. As you move between market stalls, independent shops, and restaurants, you might try black-pudding-infused soda bread, artisan chocolate, and Ulster fry, a traditional Irish breakfast.

For a more hands-on experience, I can arrange for you to make soda bread at a local farmhouse with Tracy, who I know firsthand is a wonderful host. After working up an appetite, you’ll sit down to a family lunch to enjoy your creations — and some of Tracy’s homemade sweet treats, too.

If you’re into history, the Titanic Belfast museum gives an immersive introduction to the sights, sounds, and stories of the iconic ship in the very place it was built. At one point, you ride a cable car, which takes you behind the scenes of the Titanic’s construction. Another history-focused experience I love is the Belfast Story, a private show in a classic Irish pub that uses music and dance to illustrate Belfast’s complex past and present.

And, finally, if your children are old enough for Game of Thrones, you can also visit the sprawling grounds of Castle Ward, which might be more familiar to you as Winterfell. Donning your own House Stark costumes, you’ll embark on an action-packed day of axe throwing and archery with your own skilled instructor.

Best family-friendly stays in Belfast

My top choices for family stays in Northern Ireland’s capital are The Fitzwilliam , a luxury boutique hotel close to the opera house, and the history-steeped Europa Hotel . They’re both central and have family rooms, suites, or interconnecting options. You could also stay just outside the city at Culloden Estate and Spa , where there are self-catering apartments, ideal for more relaxed family meals.

Getting around with children in Ireland

If you have young children, I recommend hiring a car so you can drive from one destination to the next at your own pace. I’ll organize the hire for you and will help find the car best suited to your family (we have vans that seat up to seven people, if you need lots of space).

Most drives on my suggested Ireland family vacation route take around two to three hours, but I’ll point out cafes and landmarks that you can stop at along the way, helping to break up the journey if your children get restless. I can also arrange a driver to take you from place to place if you don’t feel comfortable driving on the other side of the road, though this is more expensive.

If you’re traveling with teenagers or adult children, driving is still the best way to get around, but you could also take a couple of scenic train journeys to soak up Ireland’s countryside from a different vantage point. The journey between Dublin and Belfast is particularly beautiful, passing through lush farmland speckled with sheep, alongside coastline, and along the top of the 19th-century Craigmore Viaduct.

Best school vacations to travel to Ireland

Though going during summer break will give you the best weather, it’s the busiest and most expensive time of year for a family trip to Ireland. I prefer April, when temperatures start to rise and the flowers are in full bloom. So, if spring break gives you enough time for vacation, I’d go then. At this time of year, you might experience rain, so be sure to pack some layers.

Read more family trip ideas to Ireland

Family self-drive tour of Ireland

8 days from $5,105pp

Game of Thrones tour of Northern Ireland

8 days from $6,640pp

Wild Atlantic Way

10 days from $8,625pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• What to do in Dublin: a first-hand guide
• How to see traditional Ireland
• Natural Ireland: the coast, cliffs and countryside
• Discovering food in Ireland
• More family vacation ideas with Audley

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24 Fun Things to do in Dublin With Kids

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Ireland is a wonderful country for a vacation with your family. It offers friendly locals, six national parks, and miles of gorgeous coastline. You could spend weeks exploring the countryside of the Emerald Isle and find endless things to do in Ireland that the whole family would enjoy.

As the Irish capital, Dublin has the busiest airport in the country. It’s inevitable that you’ll spend at least a couple of days here on any trip to Ireland.

But Dublin is a busy city and famous for its nightlife and museums. Are there enough things to do in Dublin with kids and is it a child-friendly city?

Surprisingly, yes! Beyond the bachelor parties enjoying a long weekend of partying, Dublin has plenty of activities geared toward kids and many of its popular attractions are fun for the whole family. You’ll have no problems finding great restaurants or accommodations that cater to children too.

This guide will help you with your trip planning and includes everything you need to know so you can enjoy a fun vacation to Dublin, Ireland with your kids!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of reviews and blog posts? Here are our top picks for visiting Ireland:

Get an Easy Ireland Itinerary

Need a quick day-by-day, open-and-go itinerary for Ireland? This guide does the work for you!

Awesome hotels in Ireland

• Castle Hotel: Ashford Castle
• Dublin Hotel: Moxie Dublin
• Killarney: Killarney Royal Hotel
• Northern Ireland: The Fitzwilliam

Our favorite tours in Ireland

• Cliffs of Moher
• Northern Ireland Tour
• History Tour of Dublin
• Dublin Food Tour
• Book a Photoshoot in Ireland

Renting a Car in Ireland?

If you want to see authentic Ireland, I recommend you drive yourself. We prefer to use  Rental Cars  and  Expedia Cars .  We have had no issues with them and have been able to find the best prices available. Be sure to read these tips for renting a car in Ireland .

Book a photoshoot

We always love to book a photoshoot when we’re traveling. As a mom, it’s tough to get in photos since I’m always behind the camera. We use Flytographer to capture our memories. You can get $25 off your shoot by booking at this link or using code FAMILYVOYAGE.

Be sure to buy travel insurance to protect yourself and your vacation expenses! Compare the top companies here to find the right plan for you.

Where to Stay in Dublin with Kids

You’ll probably need to take a taxi or car service from the Dublin airport into the city to begin your trip, but once you’re in the city center it’s easy to get around on foot! I recommend choosing a hotel that’s central to the main Dublin tourist attractions.

• The Grafton Hotel – Great location just south of Temple Bar and Trinity College and spitting distance from St. Stephen’s Green, offering family rooms for up to 6 people
• The Morrison Dublin – Convenient location and offers connecting rooms for families
• Hilton Garden Inn – Just across the river from Trinity College, with river views in some rooms

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Dublin

Cool Things To Do in Dublin with Kids

There are so many fun things to do with kids in Dublin that you won’t be bored, whether you’re staying for a week or just using The Fair City as a launch point for a a big trip around Ireland with kids .

One cost saving tip: if you plan to do several of the Dublin activities in this list, check out the Dublin pass by Go City to see if they’re a good match for you. We’ve used them in a few locations around the world and found them to be a great value!

1. Pour the Perfect Pint at Guinness Storehouse

You can’t visit Dublin without checking out the number one attraction, the Guinness Storehouse. It’s the birthplace of the world-famous beer and a Dublin institution. Luckily, the Guinness Storehouse is still worth visiting with kids.

Anyone under the age of 18 can explore the Guinness Storehouse (under 13s go free!) as long as they’re with an adult. The entire building is accessible for strollers and there are even bathrooms on most floors. But the floor your kids will find the most fun is the third floor.

The third floor is dedicated to Guinness advertising materials over the last century or so. There’s a fish bicycle (you’ll understand when you visit!) and a photo booth for fun family snaps.

At the end of the tour, you’ll head to the Gravity Bar which has panoramic views across Dublin city centre. While you sip on a pint of the black stuff, your kids get a free soft drink.

It’s an interactive museum with lots to see and touch so it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Dublin with kids!

2. See the Book of Kells and The Long Room at Trinity College Library

The Book of Kells is not only one of the most important books in Ireland but perhaps one of the most important books in the world. Dating back to the 9th century, this manuscript depicts the four gospels of the bible’s new testament. It’s now located in the Old Library at Trinity College University.

One of the other cool things to see in the Old Library is the Long Room. It’s a multi-story, Harry Potter-esque library filled with 200,000 old books stacked on top of each other.

While it’s not an activity specifically for kids, you can absolutely visit this attraction in Dublin with kids. Under 12s are free and you may want to skip the guided tour and just let your kids explore and wander around the room at their leisure.

3. Enjoy the Atmosphere of Temple Bar Area

The Temple Bar area, where you’ll find most of Dublin’s nightlife, is absolutely worth visiting with kids! It’s a mostly pedestrianized area on the banks of the River Liffey so you don’t have to worry too much about traffic.

The cobblestone roads aren’t ideal for strollers but they’re not impossible. There are lots of great restaurants in Temple Bar as well as a Viking Warship bench that is pretty cool.

You can even watch some of Dublin’s famous live music performances in Temple Bar. Kids are allowed in pubs up until around 9 pm and we enjoyed watching Irish folk music at The Parliament Hotel’s Legends Bar. Bring snacks and activities to keep your kids occupied and hopefully they’ll sit long enough to enjoy the performances too.

4. Take a Picnic and Play in Phoenix Park

By far the largest park in Dublin, Phoenix Park is a nearly 3 square mile green space with lots of manicured gardens, children’s playgrounds, and sports fields. You’ll even find the Irish President and the US ambassador’s residences within these grounds! Phoenix Park is also home to a herd of wild deer, which kids will get a kick out of seeing.

On a beautiful summer’s day, walk around Phoenix Park until everyone is tired out and then tuck into a picnic.

5. Explore Dublin Castle Museums and Gardens

Dublin Castle is right in the heart of central Dublin and is within walking distance of all the other top things to do in Dublin with kids. Dating back to 1204, Dublin Castle is very well-preserved with several museums and staterooms.

All the state apartments, the gardens, the cafe, and the coach house on the grounds of Dublin Castle are accessible for strollers. Kids under six are free!

6. Join a Workshop at The Ark Cultural Hub

The Ark is one of the most fun things to do in Dublin with kids for tourists and locals alike. Based in the Temple Bar neighborhood next to the River Liffey, it’s a community center/cultural hub hosting tons of art classes, dance classes, and performances all specifically for kids.

Check out their calendar to see if they have anything fun scheduled during your trip. If the weather forecast is cold and wet, The Ark could be your savior!

7. Stroll Round and Play in St Stephen’s Green

Phoenix Park might be the largest park in Dublin, but it’s definitely not the only one. There are lots of city parks in the center like St Stephen’s Green.

Just off Grafton Street, St Stephen’s Green has a huge pond as well as a kids’ playground, an old bandstand, and lots of statues dedicated to famous Irish people. If the city centre is getting a little too busy and hectic, this is a great place for a time out.

8. Climb Aboard a Viking Splash Tour of Dublin

One of the best tours in Dublin departs from St Stephen’s Green, and that’s the Viking Splash Tour of Dublin. There really is no other tour like this in the world!

Their tour buses aren’t actually buses, they are amphibious “duck boats” (or DUKWs) used during WWII. While the tour might start on dry land, the bus will transform and you will end up cruising in Dublin’s Grand Canal Basin.

The tour lasts around one hour and 15 minutes and will allow you to see all the top sights in Dublin with kids in an exciting and unique form of transportation.

9. Visit the Dead Zoo AKA The Natural History Museum

You’ve got to love the Irish sense of humor as the Natural History Museum is known locally as the Dead Zoo. While this is a great attraction for older children, younger kids who love animals and dinosaurs might also enjoy visiting.

The Natural History Museum is probably the most kid-friendly out of all the national museums in Dublin. Unless your child has shown a particular interest in Irish decorative arts or country life, of course!

There isn’t any stroller accessibility to the first floor of the National History Museum, but all national museums offer free admission for adults and kids so that’s a big bonus.

10. Listen to the Buskers and Go Shopping on Grafton Street

Many famous musicians started out in the Irish capital and Dublin likes to foster new talent. You’ll find lots of street performers on Grafton Street which is one of the city centre’s main shopping districts.

It could take you hours to walk down Grafton Street if your kids are taken with the talented people along this street. If not, there are lots of souvenir shops and cafes on Grafton Street too.

11. Stop by St Patrick’s Cathedral and Park

St Patrick’s Cathedral is not only Ireland’s national church but it’s also the largest church in Ireland. Granted, your kids might not be too interested in Gothic architecture or Ireland’s patron saint, but they are free to walk around and explore the church as they like.

Fortunately there’s also a large garden outside and some cool water fountains in case parents need to trade off.

12. Learn About Irish Folklore at the National Leprechaun Museum

History museums can be too dry and dense for kids, but the National Leprechaun Museum is anything but. With lots of interactive exhibits all about the mythical little people and their pot of gold, you can learn some local folklore while having fun!

13. See the Animals at Dublin Zoo

Dublin Zoo is the largest zoo in Ireland and you’ll find it in Phoenix Park. It’s home to over 400 different rare, exotic, and endangered species including giraffes, rhinos, and red pandas.

There are lots of indoor and outdoor habitats at Dublin Zoo so don’t write it off if the weather is bad. With feedings and informative talks, there are lots for your kids to be involved in when visiting Dublin Zoo.

14. Experience the Sights and Smells (Literally!) of Dublinia

Most history museums only have visual displays, but Dublinia is different. This is a children-first museum that brings hundreds of years of Dublin history to life by mixing the sights and smells of Dublin in times gone by.

Your children will also be able to climb aboard a Viking longboat replica and try on biking armor.

15. Escape the City at Dun Laoghaire Harbor

The River Liffey flows through Dublin and out into Dublin Bay, but the city centre of Dublin isn’t the best place to enjoy coastal views or activities.

Take the Dart bus (leaves every 10 minutes from Connolly bus stop) to Dun Laoghaire Harbor which looks right out onto Dublin Bay. Enjoy an ice cream from TEDDY’S and walk along the harbor front to the lighthouses.

16. Visit the IMMA: Irish Museum of Modern Art

The Irish Museum of Modern art does a really great job of engaging the children who visit the museum much better than other modern art galleries. Not only does the museum display lots of beautiful and important artworks, but their Response Room is also filled with materials so kids can create their own.

Kids can follow the art trail which you can pick up at the front desk, or simply explore the expansive gardens around the gallery. Children under 18 can enter for free.

17. Watch a Pantomime Performance at the Gaiety Theater

Visiting Dublin with kids in the festive period from November to January? Book tickets to a pantomime at the Gaiety theater.

Pantomimes are festive fairytale musical performances that are a huge part of the culture of people in Ireland and the UK. They involve audience participation and are perfect family days out.

18. Check out the Family-Friendly Events at the Airfield Estate

This working farm and gardens host a ton of outdoor events during the summer months for families. Check out their calendar to see what they’ve got scheduled during your visit.

Be aware that the Airfield Estate is a little south of Dublin’s city centre so you will either need to rent a car and drive there or take public transportation.

19. Follow the Fairy Trail at Malahide Castle & Gardens

Another great place to visit in Dublin with kids is also not within walking distance to the center of Dublin, but Malahide Castle is worth the effort.

It’s a medieval fortress located on over 260 acres of woodland with botanic gardens, a playground, and a fairy trail your kids can follow through the forest.

20. Enjoy a Beach Day at Dollymount Strand

Did you know that Ireland has beautiful beaches? We didn’t realize until we started exploring! Dollymount Strand is a 3-mile/5 km stretch of beautiful, untouched sand on Bull Island just outside of Dublin.

It’s a 45-minute bus journey from the center of Dublin city and it’s a must-visit in Dublin with kids on those rare, uber-sunny summer days.

21. Visit the EPIC Irish Museum of Emigration

Descendants of Irish emigrants live all over the world and immigration is a huge part of Irish history. The EPIC museum has some fun interactive exhibits on the history of Irish people around the world that are perfect for children.

Plus, if you have Irish ancestors, you can use their extensive databases to find out more about them!

22. Walk Around the Georgian Doors on Merrion Square

Merrion Square is Instagram-famous thanks to its picturesque Georgian townhouses with brightly-colored doors, but it’s just as great for families visiting Dublin with kids! Take a walk along the street and stop for some cute family photos.

Even better, make arrangements with one of the awesome photographers from Flytographer to capture your family trip to Dublin! Use code FAMILYVOYAGE to save $25 on your first shoot.

23. Join a Guided Tour Around Butlers Chocolate Factory

Butlers Chocolate Café is a Dublin institution with multiple locations around the city. Visit one of their shops or take a tour of their factory to see how they produce their sweet treats.

24. Take a Day Trip to Glendalough in the Dublin Mountains

One of the best day trips from Dublin with kids is to Glendalough in the Dublin Mountains. This lake in County Wicklow is one of the most picturesque places in Ireland and is only an hour’s drive south of Dublin.

If you want to explore without renting a car, consider this full-day tour that’s open to ages 2+. It includes Kilkenny and the Wicklow Mountains in addition to Glendalough.

Consider the Dublin Tourist Pass by Go City

Like most major cities in Europe, Dublin offers a tourist pass. These passes are valid for a certain period and allow you to visit as many popular attractions as you like during that timeframe. As long as it’s an attraction that the pass covers, of course!

If you are planning to visit lots of museums and attractions in Dublin city centre within a short timeframe, then it could help you save money.

The Dublin Pass by Go City is available for one, two, three, four, or five days. One-day passes start from €74 for adults and €44 for children aged 5-15 years old.

It includes attractions and tours like the Guinness Storehouse, Dublinia, the EPIC Irish Immigration Museum, Christ Church Cathedral, and Saint Patrick’s Cathedral. If you were to visit all of those attractions in one day with the pass, you’d save money.

It might not be cost-effective if you’re visiting Dublin with kids in the summer, but it might be on a rainy day!

Ready to Enjoy a Vacation to Dublin with Kids?

Don’t forget that Dublin is one of the most visited cities in Europe for groups, groups, and families alike. With approximately six million visitors every year and half a million residents, the city does a great job at keeping millions of kids entertained, fed, and well-rested year-round!

While on the surface it might seem like visiting Dublin with kids is an overwhelming idea, the city is actually a great place to visit with children. You can easily swap breweries, distilleries, and nightlife with parks, art, and performances so that the whole family will have an enjoyable and memorable vacation in Dublin, Ireland.

Don’t miss these resources as you plan your family trip to Ireland:

• Renting a Car in Ireland
• What to Pack for Ireland in June
• Exploring County Kerry, Ireland with Kids: Things to do in Killarney
• Things to do in Dingle with kids

Have you visited Dublin with kids? What were your favorite experiences?

What to read next

27 thoughts on “24 fun things to do in dublin with kids”.

This post particularly hit home with me because my stepdad passed away last month. He was of Irish descent, and his dream was to visit Ireland. He never made it, but we have kept his ashes and will be taking a family trip there to spread them where he had always wanted to be. We’ll be going with my niece and nephew, a 5 year old and an 8 month old, so this information will be quite useful. I’ve bookmarked it for future reference. Thank you

I’m so sorry for your loss. Your trip will be an amazing tribute to his legacy.

When you’re ready to start planning your trip, I’m happy to help! The full trip report has tips and activities for the whole family across much of Ireland.

Thank you for sharing your experience traveling with a family to Ireland. Even though I studied abroad in the UK for 4 years, I never made it to Ireland! I wonder if the fish and chips taste different over there!

I haven’t had them in the U.K. but they’re delicious in Ireland ?

I really love Dublin, I haven’t gone there with kids though. I did really love the Book of Kells and also Dublin Castle. St. Stephens green is such a nice little park. I have been several times and would love to go back.

We had a lovely stroll through St. Stephens! It was definitely an unexpected oasis in the middle of the city.

Great post! I love how you have little video like that fish shrimp on a bicycle?! Guinness is one of my favorite beers (I’m a dark beer gal) so that’s pretty awesome, it’s one of the reason I want to go to Dublin. You’re children are adorable!

If you love dark beers, definitely head straight for Guinness! The fish on the bike was part of an old ad campaign!

Love Dublin. Love the music and milk snacks! 😉 That is pretty much what we do with out 2 year old. Sometimes juice! Vrithi Pushkar

We believe in all forms of bribery when we travel – it’s their vacation too!

Looks like the whole family had a great time. I’ve never been to Dublin, or anywhere in Ireland in fact. I should considering it’s less than an hours flight from the UK.

We loved Ireland! One of our top family trips so far. There’s something for everyone.

It looks like you had a great time in Ireland! It must be nice knowing that you can take the little ones on long-haul flights without too much trouble. More big family trips are in your future, I’d say!

It hasn’t always been easy, but we’ve all learned the ropes over time. This was our son’s fifth trip abroad 😉

Your little ones are such cuties. I love the idea behind Music and Milk Snacks, might try it on my nieces and nephews! I’ve only seen libraries like that in movies, would be great to see it in person! Haha I didn’t know that Guinness had a storehouse fish? That’s a little odd and funny to me! It looks like you and your family had a blast in Dublin.

The fish was part of an old marketing campaign. It was neat to see all of the old posters and sculptures they used, like a scene out of Mad Men!

I liked Dublin! Was there just an hour or so, so definitely looking forward to coming back. We are a young couple, no kids, so now looking for some nice activities in Dublin.

It’s definitely worth a longer visit. We stayed two days and felt like that was the right amount of time for us.

I love the fact Guinness and kids can work together – and how great of them to let you slip the queue. Is ages since I was in Ireland, time for a return. Thanks for linking up with #citytripping

Loved reading this! I live over the water in Cardiff and I’ve been to Dublin three times child-free, great city! I loved every that your host had bought a baby cot!! And love the milk treats 🙂 lovely! #citytripping

Aw, bless the 20-odd year old Air B’n’B host buying a moses basket for a 2 year old! The Long Room looks stunning, as do the views from the Guinness Brewery. Will have to try the whole ‘music and milk’ concept, sounds like it works! #citytripping

Dublin is such an amazing city and a great place for taking kids – I visited there before having my own but was working as an aupair. I also took the train across to Galway which was equally amazing

Great post #citytripping

I would love to visit Ireland with my kids and I love your Music and Milk story! 10ish is a typical bedtime for us when traveling too. Have to squeeze as much as possible in! #citytripping

We spent three days in Dublin last summer with our two boys, and had a great time! We visited the Guinness Storehouse too! We enjoyed the library at Trinity College, as well as the campus tour. A train ride to Malahide Castle was also a highlight! Lovely post! #citytripping

How fantastic that you didn’t have to wait in the Guinness Museum queue! We’d love to visit Dublin. #citytripping

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An Ireland Itinerary 7 Days for the Entire Family

Are you looking for an Ireland itinerary 7 days with the family? If so, you’ve come to the right place.

Ireland is an ideal spot for an unforgettable vacation with something to engage everyone. From majestic castles and rolling green hills to charming towns and incredible food, this magical land offers no lack of memorable experiences.

With our comprehensive 7-day Ireland itinerary, your entire family will get a taste of all this beautiful country has to offer!

Disclaimer: Just a heads up, this free article contains affiliate links . If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you . Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps us continue to provide helpful and free content for you.

Best Time to Visit Ireland

There is never a bad time to visit the Republic of Ireland, otherwise known as the Emerald Isle.

However, as so many attractions are outdoors, the longer, drier and warmer days of Spring and Summer are the best seasons in which to visit.

But if you choose to visit in peak season, Irish school holidays run from mid-June through to late August/early September , so your Ireland itinerary will encounter higher prices and busier locations. Whatever time of year you visit, come prepared for all weather.

A good waterproof coat for kids and closed-toe shoes are a must. A robust umbrella is also a useful packing item.

Best Way to Get Around Ireland

The best way to explore Ireland is by car , as you will be able to pack more into your Ireland itinerary. 7 days is a short time to tour the country , so traveling by car is the best way to make the most of your time in Ireland.

Self-driving enables you to travel at your own pace and explore quieter off-the-beaten-track locations. It also means you can stop whenever you want to in order to savor views of the famous Irish countryside. 

However, as there aren’t many motorways in Ireland , you will find that driving times may be slower than what you are used to or what you may expect from your research and planning.

Plus, once you leave urban areas, rural roads are narrow and winding, so even the shortest journey may take a long time: if you get stuck behind a tractor, it will take even longer.

There is a good public bus network between major Irish cities but buses in rural areas are irregular , with a limited network of routes . 

The Irish train network, Iarnród Éireann, is comfortable, reliable, and reasonably priced . It can be used for intercity travel and for travel to rural towns, but the rail network will not take you to rural attractions such as the Cliffs of Moher.  

There are several tour groups running multi-day tours of the Republic which cover all the major attractions.

Paddywagon Tours has its own hostel network, and in addition to its general tours, the company offers private family and small group tours . These can be a good option for anyone who might be nervous driving in Ireland. 

Why Visit Ireland With Kids

Ireland is a family-friendly country to visit. It offers a wide range of attractions for all ages and interests, including natural wonders, museums, historical sites, and theme parks . Many attractions are free , and children are discounted at fee-paying attractions. 

Larger families will also find that discounted family tickets are available for families of 5 and 6 rather than just the usual family of 4 discount . There are children’s menus in restaurants and cafes, and there are accessible playgrounds and parks throughout the country .  

Furthermore, Irish people are renowned for their friendliness and hospitality . You will find that people are welcoming and helpful and interested in who you are and where you come from. However, as in any other location, the usual safety precautions apply. 

Ireland is an easy country in which to travel: the infrastructure and money are familiar , and the majority of signs and notices are bi-lingual.

The most challenging aspect of your Ireland road trip itinerary will be the notoriously unpredictable Irish weather. 

Planning a road trip to Europe? Read our 12 Best European Road Trips For Families here!

Ireland Itinerary 7 Days

📝 Please note that all the drive times below are approximate. 

Day 1- Dublin 

🚗 Start your Ireland itinerary in the capital city, Dublin (Baile Átha Cliath). 

See the illuminated Book of Kells, wander the cobbled streets of Temple Bar , or learn about the history of the city at Dublinia .

Enjoy the fantastic playgrounds in Phoenix Park or discover how an iconic pint of Guinness is produced at the Guinness Storehouse .

Rest weary feet with a boat trip on the River Liffey , or exhaust the kids at Imaginosity , a three-story interactive children’s museum . 

🏨 Stay at the Hilton Garden Inn on the banks of the River Liffey, a 15-minute walk from Dublin City Center. The hotel has excellent local transport links, and its spacious family rooms offer two large double beds. 

Day 2- Dublin to Galway 

🚗 Drive west for 2 hours to reach Galway.

Spend the rest of the day exploring Ireland’s fourth-largest city , Galway (Gaillimh) . It is a colorful, vibrant city with a large student population . 

Visit Galway Cathedral , Galway City Museum , or the fun National Aquarium of Ireland . Take a stroll along the Salthill promenade and have a good run around on the sandy beach .

If you like buskers and street entertainers , wander along Quay Street in the heart of the city, which is known for its talented street musicians . 

🏨 Stay 10 kilometers outside Galway City at the Claregalway Hotel in Oranmore . Family rooms include beds for all the family, and the hotel has an onsite restaurant and a large, heated indoor pool. 

Day 3- Galway to Killarney

This is an activity-packed day, so you will want to be up and out early.

From Oranmore , head south towards the Cliffs of Moher but make a quick stop at Kinvara (15 minutes away).  Visit the small town’s picture-perfect Dunguaire Castle on the shores of Galway Bay. 

Continue to the Cliffs of Moher, a 1-hour drive away.

The impressive and popular cliffs are 120 meters high and run for 14 kilometers along the County Clare coastline . 

In addition to the Cliffs themselves, the stunning views here stretch to the Aran Islands and the mountains of Connemara National Park .

Families can walk 800-meter-long paths to view the Cliffs (which are best visited early to avoid the crowds) and enter the Visitors Center to learn how the cliffs were formed. Allow at least one hour here. 

🚗 Drive from the Cliffs of Moher to Bunratty (Bun Rataigh) , a 1-hour drive away. If you have time, make a quick stop in The Burren National Park to see its otherworldly karst landscape . 

At Bunratty , spend a couple of hours exploring Bunratty Castle and Folk Park . 

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park are great fun for families . It is an outdoor living history museum with over 30 furnished buildings from Ireland’s history.

Families can enter and explore the buildings where actors dressed in period costumes ‘live’ here and tell you about their lives and jobs.

The park includes a fully recreated 19th-century street with a pub, school, and post office. There is also a small woodland fairy trail, a farm, and an outdoor adventure playground. 

Bunratty Castle , one of Ireland’s best-preserved castles , is also found here, and entrance is included in your Folk Park ticket. Kids will love exploring the castle’s narrow spiral staircases and eerie nooks.

🚗 Drive 1 ½ hours to Killarney for a well-earned rest! 

🏨 Stay for the next two nights at The Gleneagle Hotel & Apartments , a highly rated and award-winning hotel that is perfect for families . The hotel has a 25-meter indoor pool, a pitch and putt course, and two tennis courts. It also offers a regular entertainment program in its on-site ballroom.

🤔 Are you wondering how to find cheap places to stay when traveling? Read our tips on How to Find Cheap Places to Stay When Traveling with Families!

Day 4- Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park on the edge of Killarney town (Cill Airne) is a 26,000-acre park with jaw-dropping rural scenery. It forms part of the Ring of Kerry scenic driving route, but Killarney National Park deserves more than a passing visit.  

Killarney National Park has everything; lakeside walks , imposing mountains , dramatic waterfalls , and shaded woodland walks. There are incredible views at Ladies View and The Gap of Dunloe.

Other highlights include the 20-meter-high Torc Waterfall and Muckross House and Gardens , a 19th-century Victorian mansion with beautiful, landscaped grounds. 

Return to Gleneagles Hotel and Apartments.

Day 5- The Ring of Kerry

Set off early to enjoy one of Ireland’s most scenic driving routes , The Ring of Kerry . As the name suggests, this is a 179-kilometer circular route around the most beautiful locations in County Kerry. 

With no stops and light traffic, the Ring of Kerry is a 3-hour drive . But there is so much to see and do along the way that the route will easily take one full day. 

Must-see stops along the way include sandy Derrynane Beach , the 7th-century Cahergal Stone Fort , Moll’s Gap viewpoint , and the attractive and colorful town of Sneem .

County Kerry is one of Ireland’s Gaeltacht areas . This means that the native Irish language is the primary language spoken in this region.

Road signs, shop fronts, and signposts will be in Irish. Enter any shop or restaurant, and you will hear the lilting tones of this ancient language. 

Do not complete the whole Ring of Kerry loop, as you will be retracing your steps through Killarney National Park . Instead, head east before entering the park and drive to the coast and the lively town of Kenmare .

🏨 Stay at The Lodge , which is a homely, family-run guest house on 2 acres of land. It has free parking, free WiFi, and beds for each family member in its family rooms. 

The seaside town of Kenmare (An Neidín ) is a great location to hear traditional Irish music . Many of the pubs in the town offer seisiúns – turn up and play Irish music sessions.

Several pubs have family-friendly afternoon or early evening start times. Seisiúns are free to attend as long as you buy food or drink from the bar.

Day 6- Kenmare to Cork

🚗 Drive for 1 ½ hours to Blarney , home of the famous Blarney Castle . 

Visitors flock to Blarney Castle from all over the world to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone . The legend states that if you kiss the Famous Blarney Stone, you will get the ‘gift of the gab’; you will never be lost for words again.

Visitors must climb to the castle parapets and bend into contortionist shapes in order to kiss the outdoor stone. Don’t worry, there are guides on hand to help you, and it is lots of fun to do and watch.

Make sure you allocate enough time to explore the beautiful 60-acre castle gardens , which include a poisonous plants section and a Himalayan and Jungle section. 

🚗 Drive the short 8 kilometers from Blarney to the city of Cork (Corcaigh) . 

Take a tour of Blackrock Castle Observatory or browse the stalls of the English Market. Younger children will love the Glenview Fairy Trail , whereas older children will find the history and stories at Cork City Gaol interesting. 

🏨 Stay at the affordable Jurys Inn Cork which is a short ten-minute walk from principal Cork attractions. 

Day 7- Cork to Dublin

After a hearty Irish breakfast (a must-try on any Ireland 7-day itinerary).

🚗 Drive 1 hour 40 minutes to Kilkenny (Giolla Chainnigh) on the banks of the River Nore. 

Spend a couple of hours exploring charming Kilkenny , which is Ireland’s best-preserved medieval city.

Wander the city’s Medieval Mile visiting Kilkenny Castle or the 13th-century St. Canice Cathedral . St. Canice Cathedral has a 100-foot Rapunzel-esque round tower which is one of only two climbable round towers in Ireland. 

Leave Kilkenny and drive 1 hour and 20 minutes north to Glendalough in the Wicklow Mountains .

You will want to make several stops as you approach Glendalough to enjoy the scenery. Take detours to view Glenmacanasse Waterfall, the Sally Gap viewpoint , and Lough Tay . Lough Tay is affectionately known as ‘The Guinness Lake’ due to its shape and color. 

Glendalough , in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains , is one of the most visited locations in Ireland.

The site features the monastic remains of the 6th-century monastery founded by St Kevin . In addition to semi-ruined churches and priests’ houses, Glendalough is known for its ornate Celtic crosses and St Kevins Tower , a non-climbing round tower .

Accessible woodland paths will bring you to the lough itself and to a choice of tranquil woodland paths.

🚗 Drive 1 ¼ hours to return to your starting point at the Hilton Garden Inn .

Need Help Planning Your Itinerary? 👉 Let me help you  plan your custom itinerary .

FAQ: Ireland Itinerary 7 Days for the Entire Family

Where should i visit in ireland for a few days.

There are plenty of spots to consider

• Dublin is the capital city, with plenty to do in terms of sightseeing and nightlife experience.
• Cork is another popular destination, boasting spectacular coastal scenery and exciting food culture.
• Galway also offers great entertainment, shopping, and dining options amid the beautiful countryside.
• For something more remote, visit Counties Mayo and Donegal , which provide rugged landscapes with plenty of outdoor activities.

What can a tourist do in Ireland in 3 days?

If you’re a tourist in Ireland, you can spend 3 days exploring the country’s stunning landscapes by visiting first the medieval castles , touring iconic monuments such as the Cliffs of Moher and Dublin’s Christ Church Cathedral , sampling some of Ireland’s fine craft beer , and Irish whiskey , listening to traditional Irish music , trying out some of the country’s famous seafood dishes , taking a carriage ride around Killarney National Park and more.

How can I see most of Ireland in 7 days?

To see most of Ireland with family in 7 days, it is best to plan an itinerary for:

📍 Day 1 -Start by exploring Dublin and visiting places like Phoenix Park, the Iconic Pint of Guinness, the Children’s Museum with Kids, and more!

📍 Day 2 – From Dublin , move to Galway and explore top places for families like the Galway Museum, the National Aquarium of Ireland, and Sandy Beach .

📍 Day 3 –  Galway to Killarney National and visit the Cliffs of Moher and Dunguaire Castle in Kinvara

📍 Day 4 – Killarney National Park and explore the wonders of Killarney National Park from the Gap of Dunloe to the Ladies’ view .

📍 Day 5-The Ring of Kerry – Enjoy the panoramic view of Derrynane Beach and the colorful town of Sneem .

📍 Day 6-Kenmare to Cork and take your kids and loved ones to the Blarney Castle and spend the afternoon in the Glenview Fairy Trail.

📍 Day 7-Cork to Dublin , but before going back to Dublin, you can spend some time visiting Kilkenny and Glendalough and go back to Dublin.

How many days do you need to see all of Ireland?

It would take around 3 weeks to see all of Ireland , though the more time you have, the better. Three weeks will give you enough time to explore Dublin, Belfast, Galway, Cork, Killarney, Limerick, Sligo, and Donegal or branch out into small towns and villages for the more traditional Irish experience. If you have more time, there are more exciting destinations, such as Kerry’s Ring of Kerry, Giant’s Causeway, the Cliffs of Moher, and Achill Island.

How much money do you need to visit Ireland for a week?

If you want to visit Ireland for a week with your family, you’ll need around $3,000 for a family size of 4 (2 adults+2 kids). This estimate includes accommodations , food, car, and other expenses . Depending on what activities you plan to do while in Ireland, your costs could be higher or lower.

What is the cheapest month to go to Ireland?

November to February . This is when airfare and hotel rates tend to be the lowest. Prices also drop during the shoulder season in March, April, and October, so this could be another good option if you’re looking for a cheaper holiday.

What is the best time to see Ireland?

Between March and May and September to November because these months offer the best combination of pleasant temperatures, long daylight hours, and low amounts of rain. During this period, visitors will enjoy the comfortable weather and mild temperatures to explore all Ireland offers. The days are also long enough for sightseeing, while the evenings remain mild and comfortable. The rain is usually light during these months, so visitors can make the most of their trip without worrying about being rained out too often.

Final Thoughts: Ireland Itinerary 7 Days for the Entire Family

This Ireland Itinerary for 7 Days is a fantastic way to see what the country offers.

From the historic destinations of Dublin and Galway to the adventurous landscapes of the Giant’s Causeway and Cliffs of Moher – there is something for everyone.

With many activities and attractions available, it’s no wonder this 7-day itinerary is so popular.

This Ireland road trip is an excellent way for families to experience all that Ireland offers in one trip!

So pack your bags now and book an unforgettable family vacation in Ireland with this Emerald Isle itinerary!

Happy Travels! 🙂

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Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.

6 Delightful Day Trips from Dublin Ireland to Take in 2024

Taking a trip to the Emerald Isle?  You’re probably planning to spend a few days in Dublin, the lively capital of Ireland. 

But there are so many more amazing places to visit in Ireland!  You should definitely take some day trips from Dublin to see more of the country’s must-visit attractions.

I spent four months living just outside of Dublin last summer.  Whenever the weather forecast was pleasant (or at least not calling for a deluge), I’d spend my weekends exploring this beautiful country.

While it did take me a little while to get the hang of driving on the other side of the road in Ireland , I had a great time seeing everything from medieval architecture to Ireland’s stunning natural landmarks.

The Absolute Must-Do Activities

If you can do all the tours on this Dublin list, do it. But if you’re time is limited, these are my Dublin Day Trip faves:

• Visit the town of Kilkenny.
• Take a day trip to the Cliffs of Moher along Ireland’s famous Wild Atlantic Way.
• Drink a Guinness at a local pub.

Ready to learn about the best day trips from Dublin?

Lace up your shoes and let’s go!

1. Kilkenny

Kilkenny is one of my favorite Dublin day trips.  It’s only an hour and 30 minutes by car or about an hour and 40 minutes via public transport.

Kilkenny is known as Ireland’s Medieval Mile, and history buffs will love exploring the ancient sites scattered throughout the city.

One of Kilkenny’s top attractions is Kilkenny Castle.  This imposing castle dates from the 12 th century and is surrounded by lush green lawns.  While you can take a self-guided tour, it’s worth the upcharge for the guided tour to learn about its intriguing history. 

Kilkenny is filled with historic cathedrals. The most important is St. Canice’s Cathedral, which boasts beautiful stained-glass windows and an impressive pipe organ.  If you’re not afraid of heights, climb the Round Tower.  You’ll get a workout climbing the ladders to reach the top of the tower, but you’ll love the panoramic views of the countryside!

Enjoy traditional Irish food and daily live music at Matt the Millers.  Be sure to sample a pint of Smithwick’s Red Ale (the Smithwick’s brewery was founded here in Kilkenny).

If you’re visiting Kilkenny with your family, check out the National Reptile Zoo – the only one in Ireland!  Or take a short drive to the Castlecomer Discovery Park and get your adrenaline pumping on Ireland’s longest zip line.

2. Limerick

Another excellent choice for a Dublin day trip is Limerick.  It takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes to drive here from Dublin.  The fastest public transportation option takes around 2 hours.

The main attractions in Limerick are within a compact area, so it’s easy to do your sightseeing on foot.

The most popular activity in Limerick is visiting King John’s Castle.  This imposing medieval fortress will transport you back to medieval times.  Learn about history through the museum’s exhibits, then climb the towers and enjoy excellent views of the River Shannon from the ramparts.

Don’t miss the beautiful Saint Mary’s Cathedral with its stunning stained-glass windows.  Check out the Celtic crosses marking the grave sites in the adjoining burial ground.  For a memorable experience, attend a concert at the cathedral!

Museum enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the treasures of the Hunt Museum, housed in Limerick’s former Customs House.  Its collections contain a wide variety of art and medieval artifacts.  Don’t miss the outdoor museum in the garden.

3. Cliffs of Moher

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most stunning natural wonders (they’re also a UNESCO Geopark).  It does take about 3 hours and 15 minutes to drive from Dublin, and there aren’t any public transportation options.

This does make for a particularly long day trip, but the Cliffs of Moher are a must-see attraction.  I recommend taking a group tour to see the Cliffs from Dublin.  Many companies offer these day tours, allowing you to enjoy the scenery rather than worrying about the long drive.

Plan to spend a couple of hours walking along the paths and admiring the views around each curve.  There is also a visitor center with interpretive exhibits and some dining options.

If you drive a little further up the coast to Doolin, you can take a boat tour and view the Cliffs of Moher from the perspective of the water.

Tip:  While the cliffs are beautiful any time of day, I recommend visiting later in the afternoon to get the best pictures.  I visited on a bright and sunny morning when the cliffs are shadowed.  In the late afternoon and at sunset, the lighting would be phenomenal!

4. Newgrange

Newgrange is one of the most mystical sites in Ireland.  It’s an easy 50-minute drive from Dublin, and it is definitely worth the trip.  You can’t reach Newgrange via public transit, but you can join a tour group to visit Newgrange and the Boyne Valley from Dublin.

Newgrange is an incredible Stone Age monument in Ireland’s Ancient East and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  This large passage tomb was painstakingly constructed over 5000 years ago and is surrounded by 97 large kerbstones (some carved with megalithic art).

There are so many mind-boggling aspects to Newgrange.  It is estimated that Newgrange took over 30 years to build.   The materials were not locally available, so they would have had to transport them.   The dimensions and orientation of the site needed to be perfect to align with the sun on the winter solstice.

On the morning of the solstice, the light from the roof box over the passage entryway shines through the passage and illuminates the chamber.  There is such a demand for experiencing this event that there is a lottery to select who can be inside the chamber at this magical moment.

If you are a fan of the movie Braveheart , you’ll want to take a trip to Trim.  It’s only a 50-minute drive from Dublin or a one-hour journey via bus.

The top thing to do in Trim is to visit Trim Castle, the largest Norman Castle in Ireland. This magnificent castle was made famous as the shooting location for the movie Braveheart , starring Mel Gibson.

Enjoy scenic castle views from the Trim Castle River Walk (walking along rivers and canals is a popular activity in Ireland!).  Trim is also home to the oldest bridge in Ireland, which crosses the River Boyne.

Other points of interest to explore in the city include Trim Cathedral (also known as the Cathedral Church of St. Patrick) and the scenic ruins of St Mary’s Abbey.

Enjoy a bite or a pint at Marcie Reagan’s Pub, a local favorite.  Be sure to duck your head as you enter!

6. Maynooth

Maynooth is one of the easiest day trips from Dublin.  If traffic is light, it is a short 30-minute drive from Dublin, or less than an hour via public transit.

Maynooth is one of Ireland’s university towns, home to both Maynooth University and St. Patrick’s College.  It is worth the visit to admire the architecture of the campus buildings (some even say that the south campus of Maynooth University resembles Hogwarts!).

Wander amongst the ruins of Maynooth Castle, or join the locals and enjoy a scenic stroll or bike ride along the Royal Canal Greenway.

Golf enthusiasts will love playing the courses at the gorgeous Carton House Golf Club, which has hosted several Irish Open tournaments.  Choose between the O’Meara Parkland Course or the Montgomerie Links Course.

Local Tip:   There is a massive Tesco Extra supermarket in Maynooth if you need to pick up supplies.  I went here for all my big grocery shopping trips while I was living in Ireland.

Final Thoughts :

Whether you prefer experiencing the jaw-dropping natural beauty of the Cliffs of Moher or touring incredible medieval castles and cathedrals, these day trips from Dublin will not disappoint!

You’ll have a great time visiting any of these fabulous places in Ireland. Why not plan a few extra days into your Ireland trip and see them all?

Read More About Ireland

• 23 Fantastic Things to Do in Westport, Ireland
• 22 Travel Tips for Dublin & Beyond on a Budget
• 19 Fun Things to in Kenmare
• 10 Things to Know About Driving in Ireland
• 14 Amazing Things To Do Along Ireland’s Ring of Kerry
• 13 Breathtaking Vacation Rentals in Ireland

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Lost in Ireland: Enchanting Walking Journey Across the Emerald Isle

July 19–27, 2025, hosted by kirsten cahoon ’98, director of piper center for vocation and career.

Get to know Ireland at the pace of 3 mph! Take a walk along windswept coastlines. Dodge sheep as you make your way across lush green fields. Walk cobblestone streets in some of the most beautiful towns on the Emerald Isle. Find a local pub, pull up a seat, and order a pint of Guinness. Savor an Irish stew while listening to some live Irish traditional music. This is how Ireland is meant to be experienced. See the Overview to the right for more information on what we’ll see, do, and learn.

Ireland is a magical place meant to be experienced at ground level, not from the window of a bus. On our Lost in Ireland adventure we’ll take you on the countryside paths and through the cobblestone streets of some of the most beautiful towns on the Emerald Isle. We’ll meet the people, get to know the culture, walk the spectacular countryside, and experience much more of this wonderful land.

We’ll take you to some of the most charming and fascinating areas of Ireland … towns like Dingle, Ennis, and Killarney. You’ll walk along windswept coastlines where impossibly green mountains end in surf-pounded rocky cliffs, complete with wheeling seabirds. You’ll stroll along countryside lanes bordered by rock walls and occasional flocks of sheep. And you’ll wander pastel colored villages with pubs aplenty and picture postcard views everywhere you look! Experience the legendary charm and warmth of the native Irish. Our adventure spans the wondrous southwest of Ireland, encompassing County Clare and County Kerry. Here the Irish heritage is at its peak, with Irish (not English) being the primary language. Get off the beaten path with us and experience enchanting Ireland!

See more details below. Registration will open within the next couple of weeks — please check back!

This tour starts in Killarney and ends in Ennis. Shuttles and taxis are available to/from Shannon and Dublin. We’ll provide more information on that closer to departure. You can view, download, and/or print the most up-to-date itinerary here .

You’ll get the most out of study travel if you research what to do during your free time. This allows you to reap the benefits of group travel, while also customizing the tour to your interests and activity level. Read more about How to Be an Independent Group Traveler .

A 1998 Phi Beta Kappa graduate of St. Olaf College, Kirsten double majored in psychology and exercise science. She obtained her Masters in Educational Psychology from the University of Minnesota, specializing in Counseling and Student Personnel Psychology. Kirsten also earned Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification from the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM). In her free time, Kirsten is an alpine ski coach for the Buck Hill Ski Racing USSA Team.

Expect a fun, active tour in community with fellow alumni, families, and friends of St. Olaf!

This is an active tour, with scheduled hikes/walks on most days, over uneven terrain. You need to be a fit traveler who can walk several miles per day at an average pace.

To see certain sites on the itinerary, you should be capable of walking five to ten miles over the course of a day, of climbing stairs that may not have handrails, of climbing in and out of various types of transportation, of keeping pace with an active group of travelers on long days of traveling, of dealing with the emotional highs and lows that can occur when experiencing different cultures, and of traveling with a group for several hours each day.

Movement between cities will be by air-conditioned private motor coach. Movement within each city and at cultural/historic sites will be on foot, requiring a lot of walking and standing, often over uneven ground. 

You will be responsible for your own luggage; traveling lightly is highly recommended.

Hotels will be tourist class (four-star or superior rating) with private baths, air conditioning, and English-speaking staff.

The tour price is $5,377 per person. For single occupancy, add $895.Inclusions and exclusions vary from tour to tour. Please read the following information carefully.

Inclusions: leadership by Kirsten Cahoon, full-time hiking guides, accommodations, breakfast daily and group meals as listed on the itinerary, admissions for group activities, ground transportation during the tour except for airport transfers, gratuities to group guides, drivers, and meal servers, and some limited medical coverage while overseas. 

Exclusions: Airfare to and from Ireland is not included . Participants are solely responsible for all expenses not specifically included in the tour fee. Examples of excluded expenses are: airfare between your hometown and Ireland, transfers to/from your hometown airport, any passport fees, any recommended immunizations or vaccinations, baggage insurance, trip cancellation insurance above $2,000 lifetime coverage, beverages at most group meals, tips to housekeeping staff, laundry, dry cleaning, phone charges, room service or other items of a personal nature, expenses incurred during free time or non-group activities, lunch and dinner, unless specifically included on tour itinerary.

This schedule is based on payments St. Olaf College must make to vendors to guarantee group rates. We highly recommend that you purchase additional trip cancellation insurance at the time of registration to recover your payments should you need to withdraw from the tour. (Only a limited amount of trip cancellation coverage is included with the tour price and only for certain medical reasons. See more on our Travel Insurance page.)

Deposit due:                      $500 upon registration Refund if you cancel:      Full refund ($500) until October 31, 2024. If the deposit is made after October 31, 2024, there is no refund.

Interim payment due:    $2,500 by November 1, 2024 Refund if you cancel:      $1,250 until April 30, 2025

Final payment due:         May 1, 2025 Refund if you cancel:      None, unless the program is full and your place can be resold

Cancellations must be in writing.

Read the Terms & Conditions and Release & Waiver (in draft stage).

Review the latest information on recommended immunizations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) .

Check your passport : ensure that it has at least 6 months’ validity past the program return date. Should you need to renew, visit the U.S. Department of State for instructions.

Take time to Prepare for your adventure  by checking out a variety of resources, including frequently asked questions, general health information, included travel insurance, safety overview, and more.

Hold the dates of July 19–27, 2025, but do not book non-refundable airfare until we can confirm the program is a go. Meanwhile, take a look at our tips on Booking Your Flights .

This tour needs a minimum of 12 travelers by February 1, 2024 in order to go. But don’t wait until then to register – once registration opens, it could fill much sooner! Registration will close May 1, 2024.

Registration will open by the end of April 2024. Meanwhile …

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All 48 victims of 1981 Dublin nightclub fire unlawfully killed, inquest finds

Survivors and relatives of those who died in Stardust club on Valentine’s Day in 1981 wept and thanked jury

Forty-eight young people were unlawfully killed after an electrical fault started an inferno at the Stardust nightclub in Dublin in 1981, an inquest jury has found.

The jury delivered the verdict in a coroner’s court on Thursday more than four decades after a disaster considered one of the darkest moments in Ireland ’s history.

Survivors and relatives of those who died applauded, wept and thanked the jury for a decision that appeared to deliver catharsis after a long quest for justice and accountability.

The conflagration in the north Dublin suburb of Artane on Valentine’s night killed 48 people, aged 16 to 27, injured 214, and left questions over how it started and why it claimed so many victims.

The jury concluded the fire stemmed from an electrical fault in the hot press in the bar of the Stardust Ballroom and that polyurethane foam seating and carpet tiles on the walls contributed to the fire’s spread.

Smoke, heat, lack of staff preparedness, ignorance of the building’s layout and emergency lighting failures impeded people’s ability to escape, the jury found. Asked if locked, chained or otherwise obstructed exits impeded the ability of any of the dead to escape, the jury foreman said “yes”.

After the verdicts relatives embraced and rose to applaud the jury, with one person shouting “thank you”. The inquest lasted 12 months.

Families said previous efforts, including a tribunal of inquiry, a victim compensation tribunal and two legislature-appointed reviews, were rushed, perfunctory or botched, reflecting official indifference to working-class communities.

The tribunal of inquiry that convened within three weeks of the fire found the “probable cause” was arson, outraging the families who said it smeared the dead and allowed the nightclub manager, Eamon Butterly, to claim £580,000 compensation for malicious damage.

The arson finding was removed from the public record in 2009 but families said only a fresh inquest could absolve those who died.

The coroner, Myra Cullinane, paid tribute to the families’ persistence in obtaining a fresh inquest. “To the families, I acknowledge the deaths of these 48 young people is a source of ongoing grief to those who loved them and it remains the defining loss of their lives.

“However, I hope that family members will have taken some solace from the fact that these fresh inquests were held, that the facts surrounding the deaths were examined in detail, that moving testimony was heard from many of those involved in the events of the night and, most importantly, that you the families felt fully involved in proceedings, however difficult it was to hear all of the evidence.”

Families marched to the Garden of Remembrance carrying photographs of those who died and a black banner that said: “They never came home.” Some called for a state apology over flaws in the investigation of the blaze and what they termed callousness towards survivors and relatives.

President Michael D Higgins said the inquest findings were a result of tireless campaigning.

“I am very conscious that today will be a day of the deepest emotions for the loved ones of those who died,” he said.

“A day of vindication and of honour, but also a day of the deepest sadness and regret. I think in particular of those whose passing means this conclusion comes too late for them.”

The taoiseach, Simon Harris, said the families had carried the weight of the disaster with strength and dignity.

“The Stardust tragedy was one of the darkest moments in our history, a heartbreaking tragedy because of the lives that were lost, the families that were changed forever, and the long, drawn-out struggle for justice that followed.

“Their relentless pursuit of truth and accountability, their profound commitment to justice, even in the face of overwhelming challenges and setbacks, was not only a fight for their loved ones but a campaign to ensure that such a disaster never happens again.”

The government will consider the verdict and the jury’s recommendations, Harris said.

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Fiesta guide: View the day-by-day schedule for Fiesta 2024 in San Antonio, watch the biggest events on KSAT

Attend in person or watch on ksat.

Rebecca Salinas , Digital Journalist

Julie Moreno , Executive Producer/Digital Content

SAN ANTONIO – ¡Viva! It’s time for Fiesta !

This year San Antonio’s big, 11-day party will go from April 18-28 . It’ll be a time to crack cascarones, party with friends and family, show off your medals, and yell, “Show me your shoes!”

Of course, there are plenty of festivities to choose from. KSAT already has a list of the major Fiesta parades and when they will take place , including the events that will be televised on KSAT 12 and livestreamed online and on the free KSAT app.

>> Tickets for the 2024 KSAT Fiesta parties are on sale now 🌺

Check out the weather forecast from the KSAT meteorologists before you head out to Fiesta events so you can dress accordingly. Also, make sure to post your images and videos on KSAT Connect .

Here are links to the complete list of day-of events for Fiesta 2024

• Fiesta events for April 18: Fiesta Fiesta, Taste of the Northside, Taste of the Republic
• Fiesta events for April 19: Alamo Heights Night, Oyster Bake, WEBB Party
• Fiesta events for April 20: Taste of New Orleans, El Rey Fido Coronation, Fiesta Kings Cup Polo Party
• Fiesta events for April 21: Chili Queens Chili Cook-Off, Day In Old Mexico, Mission Reach Flotilla Fiesta
• Fiesta events for April 22: Texas Cavaliers River Parade, Pilgrimage to the Alamo
• Fiesta events for April 23: NIOSA, Cornyation and Ford Mariachi Festival begin
• Fiesta events for April 24: Fiesta Gartenfest, Coronation of the Queen of The Order of the Alamo
• Fiesta events for April 25: Battle of Flowers Band Festival, 10th Street River Festival
• Fiesta events for April 26: Battle of Flowers Parade, Fredstock Music Festival
• Fiesta events for April 27: Flambeau Parade, King William Fair
• Fiesta events for April 28: Festival De Cascarones, Day in Old Mexico, Festival De Animales

Find more news on KSAT’s Fiesta page . You can also sign up for our free Things To Do and Fiesta newsletters .

Live coverage

KSAT will offer live coverage for Fiesta 2024′s biggest events.

Here’s when you can watch them on KSAT 12, KSAT Plus (our free streaming app), YouTube and KSAT.com :

• Thursday, April 18: Fiesta Fiesta at Alamodome, 8-10 p.m. — On KSAT 12, KSAT.com and KSAT Plus.
• Friday, April 19: Fiesta Oyster Bake at St. Mary’s University, coverage starts at 6:30 p.m. — On KSAT.com and KSAT Plus.
• Monday, April 22: Texas Cavaliers River Parade , coverage starts at 6:30 p.m. with the Texas Cavaliers Military Pre-Party . Watch parade coverage from 7-9 p.m., followed by the SA Live River Parade Afterparty from 9-10 p.m. — On KSAT 12, KSAT.com and KSAT Plus.
• Tuesday, April 23: NIOSA , coverage starts at 6:30 p.m. — On KSAT.com and KSAT Plus.
• Thursday, April 25: Battle of Flowers Band Festival at Alamo Stadium, 7-10 p.m. — On KSAT.com and KSAT Plus.
• Friday, April 26: Battle of Flowers Parade , coverage starts at 10 a.m. with a pre-parade special. Watch parade coverage from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. — On KSAT 12, KSAT.com and KSAT Plus.
• Saturday, April 27: King William Fair and Parade , 9-10:30 a.m. — On KSAT.com and KSAT Plus.
• Saturday, April 27: Fiesta Pooch Parade at Heights Pool in Alamo Heights, 9-10 a.m. — On KSAT.com and KSAT Plus.
• Saturday, April 27: Battle of Flowers Band Festival (rebroadcast), 3-6 p.m. — On KSAT 12, KSAT.com and KSAT Plus.
• Saturday, April 27: Texas Eats Fiesta Special , 6-7 p.m. — On KSAT 12, KSAT.com and KSAT Plus.
• Saturday, April 27: Fiesta Flambeau Night Parade , coverage starts with a pre-party from 7-8 p.m. Watch parade coverage from 8-11 p.m. — On KSAT 12, KSAT.com and KSAT Plus.

Get more information about how to stream KSAT 12 for free here .

This is just a partial list. As Fiesta gets closer, we will update our plans which may include covering even more events live.

Stay tuned!

Parade routes, start times

If you’re planning your Fiesta parade strategies this year, we can help.

These are the start times and routes for the 2024 Battle of Flowers and Flambeau Parades.

Battle of Flowers Parade

The Battle of Flowers parade will take place on Friday, April 26. The vanguard kicks off at 9:55 a.m. with the parade following at 10:30 a.m. This year’s theme is “Viva Amor 2024.”

The Battle of Flowers parade is the second oldest parade and the only parade in the United States produced entirely by women, and all of them are volunteers.

San Antonio Food Bank CEO Eric Cooper was selected as the grand marshal for the 133rd Battle of Flowers Parade.

This year’s 2.6-mile route will follow the same path as last year. The parade steps off on North Main Street near San Antonio College. It will travel on Lexington Avenue, North St Mary’s Street, Brooklyn Avenue, Avenue E, Houston Street, Alamo Plaza, Commerce Street and Santa Rosa where it will end near West Martin Street.

Parade Map 2024 by Julie Moreno on Scribd

Fiesta Flambeau Parade

The Fiesta Flambeau Parade is known as America’s largest illuminated night parade with more than 200 parade entries and a typical attendance of about 750,000 spectators. It’s also broadcasted and livestreamed (on KSAT!) to about 1.5 million more people.

This year’s parade will be held on Saturday, April 27. The vanguard kicks off at 7:15 p.m. and the main parade will follow at 7:45 p.m. The theme is “Lotsa Loteria.”

The University of Texas Longhorn Band will be the parade’s premier band and will be joined by floats, marching units, local bands, bands from other cities and states, dance groups, equestrian units and others.

It travels the same route as the Battle of Flowers Parade. Michael Quintanilla, a former writer for the San Antonio Express-News, is the grand marshal . Angie Salinas, the CEO of Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas, is the honorary grand marshal.

Road closures, traffic, VIA Park & Ride

With ongoing construction already creating a vehicular maze downtown, the 11-day party may cause some traffic hot spots as drivers navigate road closures, pedestrians and detours.

The City of San Antonio asks people to plan ahead, celebrate responsibly, and take a ride share or VIA Park & Ride when available.

>> Fiesta-goers can receive $10 off their Uber ride

If you are one of many planning to party downtown for the Battle of Flowers or Fiesta Flambeau parades, or at NIOSA or Fiesta De Los Reyes, click here for detailed information on road closures, parking and construction.

VIA Metropolitan Transit will have its Park & Ride service available for Fiesta’s biggest events, and riders can receive a free medal.

The service will be available from Friday, April 19 to Saturday, April 27 for $1.30 each way, though discounts are available for students, seniors, military members and other populations.

Fiesta medals will be given out at the transit center location at the time of purchase, while supplies last. If the service is purchased online, customers will need to show their receipt at the transit center to receive a medal.

Click here for detailed information on the Park & Ride schedule.

Party with KSAT 🎉

We want our KSAT Insiders to join us for all the fun!

KSAT will have Fiesta parties at the Battle of Flowers and Fiesta Flambeau parades. Tickets are on sale now!

Here’s what’s included with your purchase:

• Admission to the exclusive KSAT party.
• Access to on-site portable restrooms.
• Assigned grandstand seating to view the parade.
• 2 tacos and 1 non-alcoholic beverage.
• Access to the cash bar.
• A chance to mingle with neighbors and your favorite KSAT weather and news peeps.

You could also have the chance to be on TV during our live broadcast of the parades.

Have pictures? Share them with us!

• Share your Fiesta photos, videos with KSAT Connect!
• Show off your Fiesta hats with KSAT Connect!
• Show us your pets dressed up for Fiesta!
• Share your Fiesta decor photos
• Show off your Fiesta medal collection on KSAT Connect

Click here to read more about buying a ticket, and watch the video below to see 2023′s big KSAT Insiders parties.

What’s new at Fiesta 2024

If you’re ready for Fiesta’s biggest events, you may want to know about some new venue and time changes for 2024.

Here are new things to know about Fiesta:

• Fiesta Fiesta, the kickoff event to the season, is moving east to the Alamodome.
• La Semana Alegre, a music festival that was popular in San Antonio during the 1980s and ‘90s, will relaunch at Hemisfair.
• NIOSA at La Villita will have new food and drink options.
• The King William Fair will do away with the BlastPass system and return to paper tickets for the event.
• Battle of Flowers, one of the most famous flower parades in the country, will shift an hour later compared to the last couple of years.

Click here for more details on each of these changes.

History of Fiesta

Fiesta started in 1891 when a group of San Antonio citizens honored the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto with the first Battle of Flowers Parade.

Children dressed up as flowers and horse-drawn carriages were adorned with flowers. Parade participants threw blossoms at each other, a tradition that hasn’t been passed down.

>> Historical photos show Fiesta parade floats and crowds from 100+ years ago in downtown San Antonio

The success of the Battle of Flowers Parade led to more events every year, thus Fiesta was born.

Fiesta has been celebrated every year since, except 1918 during World War I, 1942-1945 during World War II and 2020 and 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Fiesta Foodies

Want to know how much Fiesta-goers are chowing down during the 11-day festival? Here’s the breakdown of food consumed, according to the Fiesta Commission:

• 32,000 Chicken-on-a-Sticks
• 25,000 Tortillas
• 15,000 Oysters at Oyster Bake
• 5,000 Tamales
• 3,000 Turkey Legs

Here’s what the Conservation Society says the “Night in Old San Antonio” crowd consumes during an average year:

• 17,000 pounds of beef
• 11,000 pounds of chicken
• 3,000 turkey legs
• 1,000 pounds of guacamole

Fiesta is the largest annual event in San Antonio and generates more than $340 million in economic impact for the community. Roughly 2.5 million people attend the annual celebration, which generates thousands of jobs for locals.

More Fiesta coverage on KSAT:

• San Antonio businesses, organizations release 2024 Fiesta medals
• Your guide to road closures, construction and parking for Fiesta 2024 in San Antonio
• 🌸 Fiesta Quiz: Test your Fiesta knowledge
• VIA offers Park & Ride service for Fiesta 2024′s biggest events and free medals
• 🎊 FIESTA FORECAST: Unseasonably warm start, with a weekend cool front and rain chances
• What’s new at Fiesta 2024: La Semana Alegre returns, paper tickets at King William Fair, new start for Battle of Flowers
• How to watch ABC programming pre-empted by 2024 Fiesta coverage

Copyright 2024 by KSAT - All rights reserved.

About the Authors

Rebecca salinas.

Rebecca Salinas is an award-winning digital journalist who joined KSAT in 2019. She reports on a variety of topics for KSAT 12 News.

Julie Moreno

Julie Moreno has worked in local television news for more than 25 years. She came to KSAT as a news producer in 2000. After producing thousands of newscasts, she transitioned to the digital team in 2015. She writes on a wide variety of topics from breaking news to trending stories and manages KSAT’s daily digital content strategy.

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'Family Guy' Season 22 Is Cancelling Christianity in Epic Time Travel Finale

Brian is using Stewie's time machine for nefarious purposes again.

The Big Picture

• Jesus returns in an epic time-travel finale for Family Guy Season 22.
• Brian falls for a religious woman and tries to go back in time to cancel Christianity so she'll sleep with him.
• The Family Guy finale promises the show's trademark offensive humor and some unexpected twists.

Our dear lord and savior returns to Family Guy in the Season 22 finale. At this point, Jesus has made so many appearances that he might just move in with The Griffins . It's been a while since he's appeared to clarify some things or respond when he's called upon, but tonight he returns in an epic time-travel episode. In an interview with TV Insider , showrunners Richard Appel and Alec Sulkin previewed the season finale, which airs tonight on Fox, and what Jesus has to do with it all.

This time around, he doesn't appear to the characters, and like when he was crucified all those millennia ago, he is seemingly innocent. His only crime is being associated with a religion that puts a damper on Brian's (voiced by Seth MacFarlane ) plans. In the "Faith No More" episode, the official episode synopsis (below) teases another one of Stewie (voiced by MacFarlane) and Brian's classic adventures.

"Brian becomes romantically interested in someone and it inspires him to use Stewie's time machine. Strange consequences result from their journey"

Brian Falls In Love With A Religious Woman

The dog is in love again. He falls in love with a devout vet technician (voiced by Mae Whitman ) and pretends to be religious himself to score with her. However, things don't play out in a neat rom-com manner, something Sulkin calls a mislead. "You go a little bit down a road with something that seems like it could be a Family Guy story, and then it turns into something else," he said.

What does a dog have to do to get frisky when his girlfriend has decided she's not having sex until marriage because she doesn't want to go to hell? For Brian, however, the answer is obvious. The dog will use Stewie's time travel tech . The goal? To cancel Christianity. How? By stopping Jesus before religion was invented and evolved to ruin his chances in the present. Stewie is not one to be left behind during a time-travel adventure, so the duo will jump back in time together.

They find themselves in medieval Israel circa A.D. 30, and they've already messed up. What can go wrong in a place and time they don't understand? And all this just so the dog can get lucky? The last time Jesus was on the show was in Episode 10 of Season 19, as Peter faced off with his mortal enemy: The Giant Chicken. It seems that we should be ready for another round of humor that will most definitely be deemed offensive , with Appel saying, “I never thought I’d hear myself say this as a writer, but the Standards and Practices department at Fox is easy to work with and pretty good with us.”

Catch the Family Guy Season 22 finale tonight on Fox. Stream past episodes on Hulu.

WATCH ON HULU

Your top stories on Thursday: Airlines may face higher fines for failing to check travel documents; university changes gender identity policy

Here are the stories you need to start your day, including: stardust families set to hear verdicts today; and german church embraces taylor swift’s music.

Texaco Children's Art Competition 2024: Eimear Fitzgerald (16), a pupil at Ennis Art School, won third prize in Category A for her work ‘Best Friends’. Photograph: Alan Betson

Airlines may face higher fines for failing to check travel documents

Airlines could face higher fines and be subjected to tougher legal obligations to check the documents of passengers flying into Ireland under proposed new immigration reforms.

A new gate check programme could see airlines escape fines, however, if they put in place an audited higher standard of document checking along with dedicated security procedures at embarkation.

• University changes gender identity policy: South East Technological University (SETU) has dropped references in its updated gender identity policy which previously stated that refusal on the part of staff or students to use students’ or staff members’ preferred pronouns would amount to “ unlawful discrimination or harassment” .
• Ex-EirGrid chief faces court action: The former chief of national electricity grid company EirGrid is facing court proceedings for driving “under the influence of an intoxicant”, in a case ongoing for 16 months before his abrupt departure this week.
• Irish house price inflation hits 6.1%: Property prices accelerated again in February with average values rising by more than 6 per cent in annualised terms.
• Stardust families set to hear verdicts: More than 40 years after the Stardust tragedy, families of those who perished in the 1981 nightclub fire will gather on Thursday afternoon at Dublin coroner’s court to hear 48 verdicts as to how and why their loved ones died.
• Woman ordered to vacate home bought with crime proceeds: A woman described as living an “exotic” lifestyle has been given about four months to vacate her family home in Portlaoise which was found to have been purchased with crime proceeds.
• Check out today’s Most Read stories
• Join The Irish Times WhatsApp channel for breaking news straight to your phone.
• German church embraces Taylor Swift’s music to lure young people to booked-out services: Germany’s student city of Heidelberg is staging the ultimate shake-it-off next month when a city church bins the Bach to embrace instead the music of Taylor Swift.

The Big Read

Smartphones are a window on to the world but parents do not want children exposed to some of the more negative elements it has to offer. Photograph: iStock

• Keeping children safe in the shady world of social media: Smartphones are a great window on to the world, but they can also show up some aspects of society we would rather our children did not have to encounter just yet.
• Newton Emerson: Many southerners know London or Paris better than Belfast
• Debbie Ging: Normies, incels and red-pilled: What are the dangerous ideas boys are being fed online?
• Third passenger terminal at Dublin Airport ‘will be built’: Aviation entrepreneur Ulick McEvaddy has predicted that his €2.2 billion concept plan to develop a third passenger terminal at Dublin Airport on neighbouring lands that he and others own will be built eventually.
• Trading places: The baseball stars who swapped wives, kids and even their pets: The curious tale of the pitchers in the night-time. In July 1972, a New York Post sports writer called Maury Allen threw a dinner party at his place in Dobbs Ferry and, because it was a very different era, some of his friends who played for the Yankees came.

Life & Style

• My camera notices details I miss: A friend phoned on Easter Monday and happened to say he was heading for St Patrick’s Purgatory in Lough Derg in Donegal. I said, “I don’t think it’s open to pilgrims yet,” writes Michael Harding.

Podcast Highlights

• In the News Podcast : Inside the secret online dating groups where women review men

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IN THIS SECTION

Call for statements in hit and run case that killed 9-year-old boy, coalition and opposition politcians condemn ‘disgraceful’ and ‘chilling’ protest outside roderic o’gorman’s home, stardust inquests: taoiseach pledges to meet families before formal apology, former british soldiers will not be prosecuted over bloody sunday perjury allegations, ‘you become a teenager again’: young adults feel they have ‘no hope’ in face of housing crisis, the quiet man: inside david waldron’s 25-year run in the dublin underworld, wake-up call on newstalk breakfast as inflammatory language on immigration goes mainstream, iran says no plan for immediate retaliation against israel after blasts reported near city, woman living ‘exotic’ lifestyle given four months to vacate home bought with crime proceeds, man convicted of operating ‘dodgy box’ service remanded in custody, latest stories, the movie quiz: which irish seaside town features a statue of richard harris, confronting trump over covid not easy but necessary, fauci says on dublin trip, croke park sold out for leinster’s champions cup semi-final against northampton, pro-independence left seeks first basque victory.

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