If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through fairytale towers, exploring ancient ruins, and stepping into centuries of Irish history – then this Ireland castle itinerary is exactly what you need. Welcome to your dream Irish castle adventure!
With over 30,000 castles scattered across Ireland’s landscape, planning the ultimate Irish castle tour can feel a bit overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done the hard work for you. This carefully crafted Ireland Castle Itinerary takes you on a stunning clockwise loop around our beautiful island, stopping at some of the most beautiful, iconic, and historically rich castles in Ireland.
Throughout your Irish castle journey, you’ll experience an unforgettable mix of medieval ruins, fairytale fortresses, and even luxury castle stays.
We’ve also mapped out a time-efficient route to help minimize unnecessary driving. Although honestly, the drive itself becomes part of the magic, weaving through rolling green hills, dramatic coastlines, and postcard-perfect Irish villages.
This itinerary is designed for 7 to 10 days, giving you plenty of time to explore, relax, and make the most of each destination. But if you fall in love with a particular place – and trust us, you probably will – feel free to linger longer and extend your Irish holiday. We’re always delighted to have you!
This guide focuses on the route and practical planning of your Irish castle journey. For deeper insights into the history, unique features, top-rated tours, and what to expect at each stop, be sure to check out our companion guide: The Best Castles in Ireland.
Now, let’s dive into the Ultimate Ireland Castle Itinerary – your unforgettable castle-hopping adventure starts here.
Ireland Castle Itinerary Day 1: Dublin Castle
Dublin Castle
Location: Dublin City
Distance from Dublin Airport: ~20 mins (13 km)
Start your Ireland castle itinerary in the heart of the capital. Dublin Castle is one of the most historic sites in Ireland, right in the center of Dublin City. Originally built as a defensive fortress in the 13th century, it later became the seat of British rule in Ireland for over 700 years. Today, the castle is a mix of medieval, Georgian, and modern architecture.
While You’re Here:
Explore Temple Bar, visit Trinity College, or check out the Chester Beatty Library, right on the Dublin Castle grounds. Book this top-rated Dublin Castle Tour including a visit to Trinity College and the Book of Kells now.
*Temple Bar is a lively cultural and nightlife district in the heart of Dublin City, known for its cobblestone streets, colorful pubs, live music, and buzzing atmosphere. It’s one of the most famous spots in Dublin for tourists and locals alike.
Make sure to read the following articles to help you survive the Irish pub scene!
- 50 Easy Irish Phrases and Funny Irish Slang Words
- 60 Best Irish Insults to SURVIVE Your Ireland Trip
- Expert Advice on The Best Dos and Don’ts For Visiting Ireland
- Why Do Irish People Drink? The Real Reasons Behind the Pint
- Most Hilarious Irish Insults to Make you Laugh out Loud
Ireland Castle Itinerary Day 2: Trim Castle
Trim Castle – County Meath
Distance from Dublin Castle to Trim Castle: ~45 mins (45 km)
Next on your Irish castle tour is Trim Castle, the largest Norman fortress in Ireland. Famous for its role in Braveheart, it’s one of the most iconic castles in Ireland and a vital stop on any well-planned Ireland castle itinerary.
While You’re Here:
Wander the historic town of Trim, explore the prehistoric Newgrange, visit the Hill of Tara, or enjoy riverside walks near the River Boyne. Book a full-day tour to explore Trim and witness some of the very best Megalithic sites in Ireland.
Optional: Stay overnight in a cozy Meath guesthouse or head to Kilkenny to overnight there if you want a head start on your Ireland castle itinerary.
Don’t fancy self-driving? Explore the best castles in Ireland and book your perfect Castle Tour in Ireland tailored to your travel dates, group size, and interests.
Ireland Castle Itinerary Day 3: Kilkenny Castle
Kilkenny Castle – County Kilkenny
Distance from Trim Caslte to Kilkenny Castle: ~1 hr 45 mins (125 km)
One of the top castles to visit in Ireland, Kilkenny Castle offers a beautifully restored interior, art galleries, and expansive parklands. Set in the heart of Ireland’s medieval city of Kilkenny, Kilkenny Castle a highlight of any Ireland castle road trip.
While You’re Here:
Treat yourself to this top-rated Kilkenny tour and be taken on a historical and hysterical walking tour through Kilkenny’s renowned Medieval Mile and see the city’s most iconic sights, accompanied by your guide, Irishman, magician, storyteller and all round fun guy, Nevin Cody.
Take time to sample some famous Irish whiskey in Kilkenny’s vibrant pub scene.
Ireland Castle Itinerary Day 4: Rock of Cashel
Rock of Cashel – County Tipperary
Distance from Kilkenny Castle to the Rock of Cashel: ~1 hr (62 km)
The Rock of Cashel is among the most dramatic castles in Ireland, perched high above the plains of Tipperary. A former royal site of the Kings of Munster, it’s an essential stop on any historic Ireland castle itinerary.
While You’re Here:
Tour Hore Abbey, enjoy sweeping views of the Golden Vale, or dine in the charming Irish town of Cashel.
Continue discovering the incredible Irish history by exploring Ireland’s best megalithic sites.
Ireland Castle Itinerary Day 5: Cahir Castle
Cahir Castle – County Tipperary
Distance from Rock of Cashel to Cahir Castle: ~30 mins (22 km)
Cahir Castle is one of the best-preserved castles in Ireland, built on a rocky island in the River Suir. It offers an engaging audiovisual experience perfect for families and history lovers on an Irish castle itinerary.
While You’re Here:
Visit the elegant Swiss Cottage, stroll the Suir Blueway, or relax at a riverside café.
*Thanks to their close proximity, the Rock of Cashel and Cahir Castle can easily be explored in a single day as part of your Ireland castle itinerary. For an even more immersive experience, consider booking an ultimate Irish castle day tour from Dublin that includes both sites – plus a third stop at one of Ireland’s best castles.
If you decide not to join a guided tour of the Emerald Isle, the best way to explore Ireland is by car at your own pace – click to get a free quote for Car Rental in Ireland.
Ireland Castle Itinerary Day 6: Blarney Castle
Blarney Castle – County Cork
Distance to Blarney Castle from Cahir Castle: ~1 hr 15 mins (80 km)
No Ireland castle itinerary would be complete without Blarney Castle. Home to the famous Blarney Stone, this enchanting fortress is surrounded by magical gardens and ancient druid stones. This 15th-century castle is one of the most visited Irish castles with the bonus of being located in one of the best counties in Ireland!
While You’re Here:
Explore Co. Cork, Blarney Castle & Gardens, Charles Fort, Kinsale, Cobh with its Titanic Museum. Shop, sample Stout and seafood, and explore winding streets in beautiful Cork City with painted shops, pubs, and cafes. Book this ultimate Cork Tour which includes a visit to Blarney Castle at exceptional value now!
Check out all the best things to do in Cork as well as Cork’s best towns you must visit when touring Ireland.
Ireland Castle Itinerary Day 7: Bunratty Castle
Bunratty Castle – County Clare
Distance from Blarney Castle to Bunratty Castle: ~1 hr 45 mins (110 km)
For a fully immersive experience, Bunratty Castle & Folk Park is a standout on this castle road trip through Ireland. With authentic furnishings and evening banquets, it’s one of the most interactive castles in Ireland.
While You’re Here:
Attend a Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle, explore Craggaunowen – an open-air museum where the history of Ireland comes alive and you can experience how the people of Ireland lived over 1000 years ago. If you’re up for a scenic adventure, take a drive west to the Cliffs of Moher and the Wild Atlantic Way, about an hour from Bunratty.
If you make the trip to the majestic Cliffs of Moher, we highly recommend staying in the charming and colorful village of Doolin. Known as the traditional music capital of Ireland, Doolin offers some of the best authentic Irish food and nightly live music sessions that capture the true spirit of Irish culture.
Experience the very best of the West of Ireland on a Cliffs of Moher, Ennis, & Bunratty Castle Day Tour. Let’s just say you’ll be spoiled for things to do in County Clare!
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Ireland Castle Itinerary Day 8: Ross Castle
Ross Castle – County Kerry
Distance from Bunratty Castle to Ross Castle: ~1 hr 50 mins (135 km)
Nestled in Killarney National Park, Ross Castle is a picturesque 15th-century tower house and a tranquil stop on your Irish castle vacation. The scenic setting by the lake with some of Ireland’s tallest mountains in the background, makes Ross Castle one of the most peaceful castles in Ireland.
What makes Ross Castle unique is that visitors can explore its surroundings via guided tours in a kayak!
While You’re Here:
Enjoy a boat tour to Innisfallen Island, explore the stunning Killarney National Park, or visit nearby Muckross House.
Ireland Castle Itinerary Day 9: Ashford Castle
Ashford Castle – County Mayo
Distance from Ross Castle to Ashford Castle: ~3.5 hrs (230 km)
End your luxury Ireland castle tour in style at Ashford Castle. Now a 5-star hotel, it offers activities like falconry, fine dining, and spa treatments. Once owned by the Guinness family, Ashford Castle is undoubtedly one of the best Irish castles to stay in.
While You’re Here:
Explore Cong Village, relax on castle grounds, or venture into Connemara National Park.
Realistically, if you choose to stay at this luxurious Irish castle, chances are you won’t want to stray too far – and we don’t blame you. With everything Ashford Castle has to offer, you’ll likely want to spend your time soaking up the full experience of its world-class comfort, charm, and indulgence.
Check out some of the most unique Irish accommodations to make your Ireland trip even more enchanting.
Ireland Castle Itinerary Day 10: Dunguaire Castle
Dunguaire Castle – County Galway
Distance: ~1 hr (60 km)
Your final stop is Dunguaire Castle, a scenic tower on Galway Bay rich in literary and cultural history. It’s a beautiful final chapter in your castle road trip through Ireland.
While You’re Here:
Visit Kinvara village, explore Galway City, or enjoy lunch with a view of the Atlantic. We opted to end our Ireland castle itinerary in Galway because we love Galway! Galway is basically a vibrant mix of traditional Irish culture, lively music-filled streets, colorful pubs, and a charming coastal atmosphere that captures the true spirit of the west of Ireland. Trust us, you cannot but fall in love with this authentically Irish town.
If you have time, consider exploring the wild coastline of Galway Bay by venturing on a Connemara and Kylemore Abbey Day Tour – you may as well throw an Irish Abbey into the mix on your Ireland castle itinerary!
*An abbey is a type of religious building or complex where monks or nuns live, work, and worship.
Ireland Castle Itinerary Day 11: Return to Dublin
Drive Back to Dublin
Distance: ~2.5–3 hrs (210 km)
Optional Stop (and bonus Ireland castle!): Visit Athlone Castle or Sean’s Bar (the oldest pub in Ireland) along the way.
Ireland Castle Itinerary: Total Driving Route (Clockwise)
| Segment | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Dublin → Trim Castle | 45 km | 45 mins |
| Trim → Kilkenny | 125 km | 1 hr 45m |
| Kilkenny → Cashel | 62 km | 1 hr |
| Cashel → Cahir | 22 km | 30 mins |
| Cahir → Blarney | 80 km | 1 hr 15m |
| Blarney → Bunratty | 110 km | 1 hr 45m |
| Bunratty → Ross Castle | 135 km | 1 hr 50m |
| Ross Castle → Ashford Castle | 230 km | 3.5 hrs |
| Ashford → Dunguaire Castle | 60 km | 1 hr |
| Dunguaire → Dublin (Return) | 210 km | 2.5–3 hrs |
Why This is the Best Ireland Castle Itinerary
This carefully curated castle tour in Ireland takes you through the 10 best Irish castles, offering a deep dive into Irish history, heritage, and storytelling.
Whether you’re staying in an Irish castle hotel, climbing battlements, or kissing the Blarney Stone, this itinerary for castles in Ireland truly connects you with the soul of our beautiful Emerald Isle.
Let’s take a look at the key factors we considered when crafting this Ireland castle itinerary. We’ve done all the planning for you, so you can relax (or focus on the road while driving!) and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Ireland’s best castles.
Key Benefits of This Ireland Castle Itinerary:
- Explore over 9 top Irish castles
- Covers Norman, medieval, and modern history of Ireland
- Ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers
- Includes must-see Irish towns and scenic drives
- Can be done in 7–10 days
Logical Clockwise Route for This Irish Castle Road Trip
- The Irish Castle trip forms a smooth circular route around the southern half of Ireland, minimizing backtracking.
- The Ireland Castle itinerary starts and ends in Dublin, which is perfect for most international arrivals/departures.
Manageable Driving Distances between the Best Irish Castles
- Daily drives average 1.5 to 2.5 hours, which leaves plenty of time to explore each Irish castle and wander around each Irish town. Make sure to relax, stop to enjoy some mouth-watering Irish cuisine, and of course, take a million photos!
- The longest drive on this Ireland castle itinerary is from Ross Castle (Killarney) to Ashford Castle (3.5 hrs), which is doable with a morning start – you’ll want to start early to spend as much time as you can at Ashford Castle anyway!
Balanced Mix of Irish Castles
- This Ireland castle route includes ruins, luxury castle hotels, interactive experiences, and iconic Irish landmarks – each offering something uniquely Irish.
- It blends tourist favorites (like Blarney Castle and Bunratty Castle) with more picturesque Irish gems (like Ross Castle and Dunguaire Castle) – given you the ultimate Irish castle experience.
Suggested Time Frame for the Ireland Castle Itinerary
- 7 Days: Fast-paced version for active travelers.
- 9–10 Days: Ideal for a relaxed pace, guided castle tours, meals, and exploring nearby Irish villages.
- 12+ Days: Perfect if you want to relax even more and enjoy a few drinks in places like Dublin, Kilkenny, Doolin, Galway …. who are we kidding, you can enjoy the Irish craic at any of the stops on this Ireland Castle Itinerary! To make your Ireland trip even more special consider adding a second-night stay in the luxurious Ashford Castle to make up for the longer drive. You can even venture to Northern Ireland from Ashford Castle for a full circuit of Ireland – if this is something of interest to you, make sure to check out our recommended 2-week Ireland road trip to experience the very best of Ireland.
Irish Castle Route: Travel Tips to Keep It Smooth
- Start early each day to enjoy the Irish castles before big crowds, especially at Blarney, Kilkenny, and Bunratty Castles.
- Book guided castle tours in advance during peak travel season (May–September).
- Stay in towns like Kilkenny, Killarney, or Galway to break up the drives and soak in the Irish culture.
Potential Adjustments to the Ireland Castle Itinerary (Optional)
- Want fewer long drives? Consider skipping Ashford Castle if you’re short on time (or funds!) and add a day around Kerry or Clare instead. Think Killarney or Doolin!
- Interested in Northern Ireland? You could add Dunluce Castle and Carrickfergus Castle after Trim Castle, but that would shift the Ireland Castle route counterclockwise – but that’s ok!
What do you think of the suggestions given in this Ireland castle itinerary? Have you visited any of these Irish castles? We would love to hear what you think are the best castles in Ireland.
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Slán go fóil
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