Sometimes you find yourself in a new place and just wing it—no plans whatsoever. But that didn’t work out so well for my cousin who lived abroad for ages. I took him to a cafe, and he confidently ordered a ‘crackin’ good breakfast.
What he didn’t realise is that ‘craic’ doesn’t really mean food around here. So, the waiter just stared at him like he just asked for something illegal. That was probably one of the worst things I’ll never let him live down.
Even though that was among the most entertaining things I’ve ever seen, I still made sure to get him the best weekend in Ireland. Together, we crafted our own handy travel guide based on the top attractions we’ve visited on this big island so far.
What is a weekend in Ireland like?
A weekend in Ireland should offer scenic landscapes, lively pubs, rich history, and great company. Notable attractions are the Cliffs of Moher, Kilmainham Gaol, or the Giant’s Causeway.
Best Time to Go
The best time to spend a weekend in Ireland is from May to September for mild weather, with long days suitable for explorations.
How to Get Around
- Trains: You can easily commute via the train network operated by Irish Rail. This involves getting around the most popular cities like Dublin, Galway, Cork, and Limerick.
- Buses: Bus Éireann and Citylink provide economical intercity travel for convenient travels. Do note that Dublin Bus covers the capital.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available in many cities. Still, riding a cab in Ireland is pricier than others. But if you want a hassle-free day, you can use apps like Free Now or Bolt to grab a taxi. Otherwise, you can hail one at a designated taxi rank.
- Car: If you don’t want to tire yourself driving all day (though it would still be fun), we believe car rentals are the best way to go. This way, you can check out the countryside and many scenic routes in private.
What to Do for a Weekend in Ireland
Travel Back in Time at Kilmainham Gaol
Media credit: adventuresofmilpool
Website: https://www.kilmainhamgaolmuseum.ie/
Address: Inchicore Rd, Kilmainham, Dublin 8, D08 RK28
Contact Details: +353 1 453 5984, [email protected]
Kilmainham Gaol is among the most historical attractions in Dublin for your weekend getaway in Ireland. This prison was key to the country’s struggle for independence. And if you’re a history buff, we reckon this would be a treat!
We think its guided tour seems pretty immersive too, with stories about past inmates, as well as the prison’s tough conditions.
If you’re a movie junkie, we bet you’ll love that its 19th-century Victorian-style east wing has been showcased in films like Paddington 2 and The Italian Job. Cool, right?
Explore the Cliffs of Moher
Media credit: cliffsofmoher.ie
Website: https://www.cliffsofmoher.ie/
Address: Co. Clare
Contact Details: [email protected]
If you want one of the most spectacular views of your life this weekend, we recommend the Cliffs of Moher. It provides majestic landscapes where you can see the Aran Islands, Galway Bay, and the Connemara mountains.
We say you’ll truly feel on top of that world here since the cliffs are towering 214 meters (702 feet) above the Atlantic. It also spans 14 km (8.7 miles), so we know you’ll have endless panoramic views. We imagine you’ll be in love with the sunset here!
Those who find joy in hiking can also go for the 20 km (12-mile) trail run along the cliffs. And if you love animals, be sure to look out for razorbills, puffins, and other seabirds nesting around the area.
Drive the Ring of Kerry
Media credit: nikkinightshade
Website: https://www.ireland.com/en-us/destinations/regions/ring-of-kerry/
Address: Co. Kerry
Want to clear your head? Why not go for a scenic drive this weekend? The Ring of Kerry is a 179-km (111-mile) circular route through Country Kerry. For us, it’s where you can experience among the most picturesque road trips in Ireland.
You’ll see lush landscapes, a rugged coastline, great mountains, charming villages, and tons of history. We think it’s like being in a postcard! Another highlight for us is Kenmare for the food and craft shops, where you can get plenty of handy souvenirs.
And if you’ve got more time, you can go on a detour. You can see the Skellig Michael, a popular Star Wars filming spot! There’s also a lovely stop called the Glenbeigh & Rossbeigh Beach for those who want more sun and sand in their life.
Visit the Giant’s Causeway
Media credit: wetraveltheworld
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/northern-ireland/giants-causeway
Address: 44 Causeway Road, Bushmills, County Antrim, BT57 8SU
Contact Details: +44 28 2073 1855, [email protected]
Interested in mythology and nature? The Giant’s Causeway is known for its unique rock formations and beautiful coastal sights. According to legend, the giant Fionn MacCumhaill (Finn McCool) built this to fight a Scottish giant!
We’re also in awe that there are more than 40,000 interlocking basalt columns here! These create a majestic landscape created by volcanic activity around 60 million years ago.
Just note its few routes that can offer you different perspectives. One is the Red Trail for the clifftop views, and the other is the Blue Trail for easy access to the stones—whichever floats your boat!
Experience a Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle
Media credit: imalexmenz
Website: https://www.bunrattycastle.ie/
Address: Bunratty East, Bunratty, Co. Clare
Contact Details: +353 61 711 222, [email protected]
Have a thing for time travelling to a medieval time? You can attend a medieval banquet in a wonderfully preserved Bunratty Castle. Here, we believe you can be transported to the 15th century with its food, entertainment, and other charms.
We also love the authentic medieval setting of the castle—imagine the stone walls, candlelit atmosphere, goblets of mead or honey wine, long wooden tables, and more! You can even be greeted as a Lord or Lady—time to pretend to be a noble!
On top of that, we bet you’ll enjoy the 4-course meal with hearty dishes like roasted meats, spiced ribs, and apple tart. These would all be served in a medieval fashion, so the experience seems highly immersive.
Where to Eat During Your Weekend in Ireland
The Temple Bar
Media credit: thetemplebarpub
Website: https://thetemplebarpub.com/
Address: 47-48 Temple Bar, Dublin 2, D02 N725
Contact Details: +353 1 672 5286, [email protected]
Pricing: $
If you’re spending a weekend in Ireland, there’s a high chance you’ll find The Temple Bar one way or another. This spot is popular for its Irish and international craft beer.
It’s also delightful for us that there are 450 different types of whiskey here. So if you’re a whiskey connoisseur, this is among the biggest selections in Ireland.
We also like that you’ll find buzzing live music, street performers, and a fun crowd here! Moreover, we appreciate that it offers outside seating for a breezy vibe. Just make sure to arrive earlier than planned since this pub doesn’t take reservations.
Fish Shop
Media credit: fishshopbenburb
Website: http://www.fish-shop.ie/
Address: 76 Benburb St, Smithfield, Dublin, D07 X3PN
Contact Details: +353 1 557 1473, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
If you want to enjoy fresh seafood this weekend in Ireland, Dublin’s Fish Shop is where you can get tasty, classic fish and ships—we like that they’re beer-battered too!
Since the fish are sourced daily from fresh waters, you’ll be confident to get everything fresh. We also appreciate that this spot has a big selection of natural and organic wines. We think they go surprisingly well with the fish!
We say don’t skip the scallops, crab on toast, or the squid slider. When needed, we appreciate that you can ask for a gluten-free option as well!
Brother Hubbard (North)
Media credit: brotherhubbardcafes
Website: http://www.brotherhubbard.ie/
Address: 153 Capel St, North City, Dublin, D01 V9V0
Contact Details: +353 1 441 1112, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
Woke up late this weekend? Brother Hubbard (North) is one of our favourite brunch spots for a great start this Saturday or Sunday. We like its Middle Eastern-inspired options, topped off with great coffee and chill vibes.
We recommend getting your hands on unique dishes like Turkish eggs and shakshouka (poached eggs in tomato sauce). But you know what really got our attention? The spiced lamb merguez (spicy North African) sausage rolls.
On top of that, we adore homemade baked goods if you have a sweet tooth in the mornings. Our top picks are the cinnamon swirls, brownies, and tahini cookies. And if you want some sun, we suggest making the most of the outdoor seating.
Dela
Media credit: delarestaurant
Website: https://dela.ie/
Address: 51 Dominick St Lower, Galway, H91 E3F1
Contact Details: +353 91 449 252, [email protected]
Pricing: $
Dela is frequented by many for its refreshing farm-to-table philosophy. We also like its Scandinavian-inspired menu, sourced from its farm—everything’s as fresh as can be. Great portion sizes too, in our opinion.
We say go for the sourdough pancakes, house-made granola, and mushrooms on toast. And if you’re not feeling like grabbing a hot cup of Joe, we suggest trying out a matcha latte and fresh juices to kickstart your day healthily.
Plus, it’s handy for us that this spot can accommodate most dietary needs. There are some vegetarian (like veggie breakfast) and vegan (like brunch burrito) items that you enjoy.
Where to Shop During Your Weekend in Ireland
Grafton Street
Media credit: graftonstreetdublin
Website: https://www.graftonstreet.ie/
Address: 2-104, Grafton Street, Dublin 2, D02 Y527
Set in the heart of Dublin, Grafton Street is known for its pedestrianised street surrounded by high-end stores, Irish shops, cosy cafes, and fun street performers.
You’ll find popular brands like Zara and H&M, as well as the upmarket department store Brown Thomas. But if you want to explore the culture, we like the charming Irish boutiques, like Avoca for crafts and food and Kilkenny Design for local artisan goods.
It’s also convenient for us that this shopping street is close to attractions, such as Powerscourt Townhouse, Trinity College, and Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre—all within walking distance so you can maximise your itinerary!
English Market
Media credit: theenglishmarketcork
Website: http://www.englishmarket.ie/
Address: Grand Parade, Centre, Cork
Contact Details: +353 21 4924182, [email protected]
Craving for some good cheese? How about artisan Irish cheeses? English Market is the place for the freshest local produce if you want your own charcuterie with top-notch dairy, meats, and organic veggies.
We also recommend trying authentic Irish specialities, like Clonakilty black pudding and spiced beef. Otherwise, you can grab some gourmet takeaway and street food from popular picks, such as The Real Olive Company and The Sandwich Stall.
Just remember to get there before 10 am on Fridays and Saturdays, so you can get the freshest selection of bread, fish and meat.
Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop
Media credit: charliebyrnesbookshop
Website: https://charliebyrne.ie/
Address: The Cornstore, Middle St, Galway, H91 AH7A
Contact Details: +353 91 561 766, [email protected]
Thinking of stocking up on some new books this weekend? Charlie Byrne’s Bookshop is fantastic for bookworms in Ireland. It’s an independent bookstore with thousands of options—new, rare, and secondhand among all genres.
You could explore over 100,000 books! Whether you love fiction, art, Irish literature, history, or poetry. It’s also amazing for us that this shop showcases independent Irish publishers and rising Galway authors.
We also adore the maze-like layout, making this bookstore very quirky and unique. And if interested, you can see if this store is holding book launches, author talks, or poetry readings to make your book shopping more interesting.
Where to Stay During Your Weekend in Ireland
The Westbury
Media credit: westburydublin
Website: https://www.doylecollection.com/hotels/the-westbury-hotel
Address: The Westbury Mall
Contact Details: +353 1 679 1122, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
If you want to do plenty at the weekend, The Westbury is at the centre of many fun attractions. This 5-star spot is only a minute’s walk from Grafton Street, a 5-minute stroll from the Little Museum of Dublin, and an 11-minute promenade from Dublin Castle.
You can expect lavish rooms with personalised wool carpets, sleek furnishings, and pillow-top mattresses. Besides the usual amenities, we like the marble bathrooms with heated floors and designer toiletries.
We also love the well-lit and sophisticated dining spot that offers contemporary dishes. And if you want to go back in time, there’s a chic ‘30s-inspired cocktail bar and brasserie here with a scenic terrace.
The Dean
Media credit: thedeanirl
Website: https://thedean.ie/
Address: 33 Harcourt St, Saint Kevin’s, Dublin
Contact Details: +353 1 607 8110, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
The Dean is a hip 4-star accommodation offering a good variety of sightseeing and shopping opportunities. If you want some exercise, this hotel is a 7-minute walk from the lush at St. Stephen’s Green and an 11-minute stroll from St Patrick’s Cathedral.
Apart from the basic amenities at the urban-chic rooms, note that some have bunk beds and record players. Should you arrive with a big crew, we bet you’ll like the suites having separate living areas, kitchens, fireplaces, and foosball.
On top of that, we appreciate that loaner bikes are available too! Moreover, you can go to the lobby cafe or rooftop restaurant with a terrace and bar whenever you feel like it.
Moxy Dublin City
Media credit: moxyhotels
Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dubox-moxy-dublin-city/overview/
Address: 1-5 Sackville Pl, North City, Dublin, D01 H2Y2
Contact Details: +353 1 513 3590
Pricing: $$
Looking for an affordable Irish place this weekend? Moxy Dublin City is a budget-friendly 3-star haven in the middle of several bars and cafes on a busy street. It’s also 2 km from Dublin Castle and 3 km from the Guinness Storehouse brewery.
Even with its price, we like that its streamlined rooms offer floor-to-ceiling windows, internet, and flat-screen TVs. Conveniently, there’s also a stylish restaurant bar there that’s open 24 hours a day.
What to Expect from Ireland’s Weather
- Spring: During March to May, Spring in Ireland is considered mild, with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 15°C (45°F to 59°F). You can expect rain showers too, but the daylight hours are longer. Plus, we bet you’ll love the blooms and greenery.
- Summer: In general, you can expect a cool summer season in Ireland from June to August, with temperatures between 13°C and 20°C (55°F to 68°F). Of course, the days would be longer, but you must be prepared for occasional rain.
- Fall: From September to November, you can expect a breezier time with temperatures cooling to 10°C to 16°C (50°F to 61°F). There’s more rainfall but you might appreciate the golden landscape with autumn vibrance. Great time for pubs too, we say.
- Winter: If you want to be cold, but not too cold, we say visit around December to February. The temperatures range from 2°C to 9°C (36°F to 48°F). And while rain, wind, and some frost can be expected, snow is pretty rare.
Tips When Visiting Ireland on a Weekend
Now that you know what to do during your Irish weekend getaway, here are more tips to make your visit hassle-free:
- Make the most of your limited time.Since you’ll likely only spend 2 to 3 days, we think you’ll maximise your fun and energy if you stick to one region in Ireland. You can choose a specific area, such as Dublin, Cork, or Galway.
- Find yourself a day tour.Don’t want to drive? We say join a guided tour to popular attractions like Cliffs of Moher or Giant’s Cause to avoid transportation hassles and mainly focus on your itinerary.
- Prep for every weather.You can never be sure what can happen with Irish weather. We recommend bringing a rain jacket, layered items, and waterproof shoes.
- Learn local phrases beforehand.Use common Irish phrases like “What’s the craic?” (What’s up?), “grand” (good or fine), and “sláinte!” (cheers!) when mingling to make conversations more fun.