This article is part of my Planning Your Ireland Vacation series — a step-by-step guide that walks you through the entire planning process, answers common questions, and helps you move forward with clarity. If you’d like to follow the full series in order, you’ll find it at:IrelandFamilyVacations.com/planning During your Ireland vacation you’ll have dozens of…
Two Ways Across Ireland: Direct and Easy, or Scenic and Story-Filled Traveling between Dublin and Galway might look simple on a map – a straight shot from east to west. And it can be. But this is Ireland, and sometimes the best part of the journey is what happens when you detour off the motorway….
In this episode, I’m taking you along on my Craft, Culture & Craic women’s tour – a week designed for connection, creativity, and a good dose of laughter along the way. This trip winds through some of my favorite parts of Ireland’s south and east, where artistry and tradition meet the relaxed pace of coastal…
In the podcast episode below I’m sharing highlights from A Giant Adventure, one of my small-group tours through Ireland north of Dublin. This journey included Belfast’s Titanic history, the legendary Giant’s Causeway, Derry’s resilience, and a deep dive into Ireland’s Celtic past. My tours are designed with balance in mind: iconic sights, unique hands-on experiences,…
The Medieval City of Kilkenny is an easy trip from Dublin – under 2 hours if you travel direct by car – and is a terrific day trip from Dublin by train. But too many travelers consider Kilkenny as a ‘stop through’ in route to another spot (usually Cork), which often leads to regret, as…
Back in the fall of 2014 I received an email asking for a few Ireland trip tips. The fun twist to this was that the family asking for advice was from my own community in Iowa and had 2 daughters near my own daughters’ ages! (cue ‘It’s a Small World’) The family would be staying…
From ancient monasteries to mighty castles, Ireland’s OPW Heritage Card offers unlimited entry to dozens of incredible sites for one flat fee – making it one of the best travel values on the island. When I travel through the republic of Ireland, whether it be with my family or hosting a tour group, it is…
The drive from Dublin to Killarney is one of the most popular point-to-point routes in Ireland. It takes about four hours if you’re going straight through—but where’s the fun in that? These routes offer plenty of chances to turn the journey into a full day of exploration, with castles, gardens, and charming towns along the…
I am a huge fan of beautiful gardens! We have visited many gardens throughout the years, and while gardens in Ireland always have something to offer, there is a sweet spot if you want to catch the blooms looking their best. Don’t Miss This!Enchanting Irish Gardens to add to your Itinerary Reader Question: I came…
When you think of Ireland, you might picture rolling green hills, ancient castles, and lively pub music. But did you know that Ireland is also one of the world’s top destinations for equestrian tourism? Welcome to Horse Country—an area that embodies the island’s deep-rooted connection to horses, from world-class breeding to immersive visitor experiences. Get…
Ireland rental car insurance and CDW coverage leaves many people confused. What you must know before renting a car in Ireland.
Renting a car in Ireland is the best way to explore the country. Everything you need to know about car rental in Ireland. Updated for 2023.
Long flights can be intimidating for families- especially if young children are in tow. No one wants to be “that family” on an 8 hour flight. A little planning, a bit of preparation and the right tools can make your flight enjoyable for everyone involved. Planning for your Flight A great place to begin your…
It has only happened to me once… but once was enough. A flight delay or cancellation is never fun but a little proactive action + a positive attitude can keep a bad situation from turning worse. My Flight to Ireland Was Delayed Multiple delays began to stack up for our flight out of Chicago, and though…
Ireland is actually quite easy, regarding documentation, for visitors from North America, Australia, and the EU to travel to for vacation. This article is also available as a podcast. To listen please scroll to the player at the bottom of the page to listen. What Documents Do You Need to Enter Ireland? Most visitors need…
Killarney is the major tourist town of south west Ireland; you can get practically anything here. One of our first stops was Christy’s Irish Stores. Yes, Christy’s is quite touristy. But if you are traveling with little ones there is no better place to let them pick out their own trinkets and souvenirs. Enter through…
Most know that stunning Kylemore Abbey was home to a private school for girls for quite a few years. Now, Kylemore Abbey is opening their doors to students again to learn through discovery, creative technologies and adventure sports with the Connemara Maths Academy. After a few conversations with Connemara Maths Academy on Twitter, I requested…
Just the name, Connemara, evokes such wondrous imagery. The “wild west” of Ireland, where roads may or may not drop you into the Atlantic Ocean as it crashes against the shore. The place where famed Connemara Marble is cut from The Tweleve Bens mountain range. Where romance tumbles with sadness and ends in hope at Kylemore Abbey. Yes, Connemara…
A quick jaunt from Killarney or Limerick, the Dingle peninsula is a terrific destination during an Ireland family vacation. The Dingle Skellig Hotel, perched on the edge of Dingle Bay, offers spacious family rooms, a tasty breakfast buffet and is an easy 5 minute walk from the center of Dingle town. What to Do on…
One of the most common questions I receive when helping people plan their Ireland family vacations is, “We want to visit Dingle. Can we do it in a day trip from Killarney/ Adare/ Cork?” I answer honestly – yes, you can. But you will likely feel rushed, and you may have to cut short or…