Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast often ranks high on an Ireland vacation bucket list. With marquee sites like Belfast, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Giant’s Causeway, and the walled city of Derry, tourists are drawn to the 120 mile Causeway Coastal Route to experience the dramatic landscape heavily fortified by Irish mythology. But the mistake many visitors make when touring Northern Ireland…
Few spots in Ireland invoke the imagery of Irish mythology more than the Giant’s Causeway along Antrim’s northern coast. Science may explain the polygonal stones as being caused by volcanic activity 60 million years ago, but in your mind’s eye you can’t help but see the giant, Finn McCool, setting his stepping stones across the…
This fast-paced itinerary takes you to the highlights of Ulster, including the Giant’s Causeway and Belfast city, while also introducing you to places along the famed Causeway Coast that you’ve never heard of. And yes, there are tips on Game of Thrones sites, too.
Arrival and departure are from Dublin Airport, but the circular route of the itinerary means no backtracking.
This itinerary is suitable for all ages and fitness levels and includes 3 levels of lodging recommendations: budget, mid-range, and luxury.
April 16-24, 2026 Irish mythology and modern tragedy… The warmth of whiskey and the cool spray of the North Atlantic… And the opportunity to get hands-on with Irish traditions passed down through the years. From vibrant Belfast to the storied streets of Derry, with coastal wonders and legendary landscapes in between, this tour explores the…
Planning your Ireland vacation is a smart way to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable experience. While the idea of “winging it” might sound tempting, today’s travel landscape in Ireland is a bit different from what it used to be. With more visitors, limited accommodations, and higher demand for attractions, a little planning goes a long…
Dublin, Ireland’s lively capital and home to the country’s busiest airport, is a no-brainer starting (or ending) point for your Irish adventure. There’s plenty to see and do in Dublin—you could easily spend a few days soaking up the sights, history, and pints—but don’t stop there! Some of Ireland’s most incredible spots are just a…
Derry or Londonderry? Learn a bit of the city’s history, explore the city walls & murals with Gleann Doherty from Derry Guided Tours.
You’ve probably heard of the Causeway Coastal Route – it’s one of the most scenic drives in the world. But Ulster, Ireland’s northernmost province, saves some stunners for people who aren’t afraid to get off the tourist path. Way, way off the tourist path. This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Adam Stewart,…
Is Northern Ireland on your itinerary? Today’s guest, Jamese McCloy, is going to give you a dozen reasons to venture off the tourist trail and explore the heart of Mid Ulster in Northern Ireland. Exploring Mid Ulster in Northern Ireland Click Here to add this to your Ireland vacation board on Pinterest! This article is…
If you’re planning to visit Ireland in 2025 you need these Ireland travel tips before you begin booking! Below you’ll learn about the new requirement for visiting Northern Ireland (and the UK), the days I recommend you NOT be in Dublin, and what’s new in 2025. You’ll also get handy tips on booking everything from…
When James Stuart lined the drive to his Georgian mansion with 150 Beech trees in the late 18th century his goal was to add a sense of grandeur to the entry of his estate. Nearly two centuries on about 90 of these trees remain as one of the most photographed locations in Ireland: The Dark Hedges….
Planning a trip to Ireland is thrilling with so many beautiful places to explore! But if you’re not careful, a few common mistakes could get in the way of your perfect adventure. We All Make Mistakes When Planning an Ireland Vacation In 2 decades of Ireland travel I’ve made my own share of mistakes. My…
Ireland is a country known for stunning landscapes and natural beauty. The abundant rainfall that contributes to the country’s ’40 shades of green’ is also at least partially responsible for the lush gardens you’ll find across the country. While the majority of public gardens seem to be concentrated in the ‘sunny southeast’, you can easily…
{Hello from Sligo town – in the county of Sligo. I’ll fill you in on the past few days – but first a terrific accommodation question} How to Find Accommodation in Ireland Ruth W. asked a question that I hear rather often… I’m wondering about how to find budget- to mid-priced accommodation for three adults…
If you’re planning to explore the Causeway Coastal Route your itinerary probably includes a stop at Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. Crossing Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge may not be for the faint of heart- but it offers an experience you won’t forget! Constructed of planks and wires suspended 100 feet in the air, the ‘rope bridge’ crosses the…
Best Ireland podcast episodes from the archives. Traveling in Ireland podcast – Ireland travel tips from the people who know the country best
Derry is famous for the city’s walls and murals. But there is more to see and do in the city and county. Tips & tours in County Derry.
Calling all budding archaeologists- this is your chance to dig in the Irish dirt and earn college credits! Today I’m talking with Eileen Murphy, Professor of Archaeology at Queens University Belfast, about Ireland’s archaeological history and QUB Archaeological Field School. This article is based on a podcast episode featuring Eileen Murphy, Professor of Archaeology at…
Have you ever wondered what the most popular tourist destinations in Ireland are? How about the least popular (or the least crowded?) And how can this information help you plan your vacation? Jody tackles all those questions in this episode of the Traveling in Ireland Podcast. The Most Popular Tourist Destinations in Ireland This episode…
On this very special edition of the podcast, Jody is in Chicago to welcome her most distinguished guest yet, Niall Gibbons. Niall is the Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Ireland. Listen as they chat about the special initiatives that resulted in the jump to Ireland’s tourism numbers as well as more exciting events will draw…