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Heritage Ireland

7 Day Itinerary

Taking you through the busy heart of Dublin, to the rugged castles of Tipperary, and the seat of power in Kilkenny.

7Days

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Our 7 day itinerary is perfect for those who like to explore as much history and culture a country has to offer. This itinerary will take you through the busy heart of Dublin, to the rugged castles of Tipperary, and the seat of power in Kilkenny.

In Dublin, you’ll visit two of the most influential buildings in modern-Irish history, and take a breather in some of our calmer suburban surrounds. From Dublin, you’ll travel to Tipperary, to walk in the footsteps of High Kings and Hollywood movie stars, while also following our Butler trail to Kilkenny – engaging with the history of one of Ireland’s most powerful families.

In just seven days you will experience the complexity of Irish history, while also becoming immersed in the beauty of the landscape.

Day 1 — Explore Dublin City

A view of the Customs House Visitor Centre from the banks of the river Liffey

Custom House Visitor Centre

Start your historical journey of Ireland in one of Dublin’s most iconic architectural marvels – Custom House Visitor Centre. This exhibition reveals the stories behind the building, burning, and restoration of this Dublin landmark, while encompassing over 230 years of Irish history. It is the perfect place to visit first for an in-depth background to Ireland’s fight for independence.

Transport: Bus Áras luas stop (red line) stops at the back of the building, while a number of Dublin Buses stop just across the road on Eden Quay, or right outside on Custom House Quay.

Dublin Castle

Why Visit: Immerse yourself in the history of a building that once acted as the centre of British power within Ireland.

Dublin Castle contains stories within that date all the way back to the Viking Age! Enter to a grand staircase that leads into the state apartments, and see the opulent throne room.

Transport: Just a 10-15 minute walk from the Custom House Visitor Centre across the river and down Dame Street

 

Day 2 — Visit the historical gems within the Dublin suburbs

November light through the trees at National Botanic Gardens

Rathfarnham Castle

Why Visit: Take in one of Dublin’s best examples of an Elizabethan fortified manor house at Rathfarnham Castle. Set within the sprawling grounds of a DCC park, and a cosy café attached, it’s the perfect place to start your second day of culture and history. It also plays host to a wealth of exhibitions and cultural events.

Transport: the 16 and 74 buses stop right outside the Castle, and go through the city centre.

National Botanic Garden of Ireland – Glasnevin

Why Visit: Renowned for its exquisite plant collection and myriad of cultural events, the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin is a beautiful place to visit to learn about the thousands of different species planted here, as well as taking a breather from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Transport: the 16 bus will take you from Rathfarnham to Drumcondra

Day 3 — High King of Monuments

A castle perched on top of a craggy green hill, with the mountains and blue sky as its backdrop

The Rock of Cashel

Why Visit: On your first day in Tipperary make sure to visit The Rock of Cashel, and take in the breath-taking scenery and the history of this most famous of medieval monuments.

Transport: Take the Bus Éireann no. 245X to Cashel from Dublin City – approx. 2 hrs.

Day 4 — Follow the Butler Trail

View of Cahir Castle from the Inch Field

Cahir Castle

Why Visit: Perched on the top of a rocky island, Cahir Castle was the stronghold of the powerful Butler family; it is also one of Ireland’s most famous filming locations, winning awards for the atmospheric backdrop it adds to Hollywood blockbusters. Known for shows such as Vikings and The Tudors, and movies such as The Green Knight and The Last Duel, visitors come from all over the world to experience a little bit of movie magic at Cahir.

Transport: Take the 245X bus from Cashel to Cahir – only a 20 minute journey!

The Swiss Cottage

Why Visit: Built as an idyllic retreat by a member of the Butler family in the early 1800s, Swiss Cottage (open March – November 2024) is the opposite of the Butler’s foreboding Castle just 30 minutes away. Find your peace amongst the beautifully decorated rooms and the tranquil gardens.

Transport: Walk 35 minutes from Cahir Castle to Swiss Cottage

Day 5 — Continue your Butler family journey

aerial shot of Ormond Castle

Ormond Castle

Why Visit: Take a visit to the tranquil surrounds of Ormond Castle, Ireland’s finest Tudor manor house (open March – November 2024). Immerse yourself in the history of the Butler family, a great continuation of your Butler trail journey from Cahir Castle and Swiss Cottage

Transport: Take the one hour bus journey from Cahir to Carrick-on-Suir – Bus Éireann no. 55

Day 6 — Visit the Marble City

Autumn at Kilkenny Castle

Kilkenny Castle

Why Visit: Visit the impressive Kilkenny Castle, the seat of the influential Butler family. The Castle became the centre of Kilkenny City, as the city built up around it. After your tour, enjoy a walk within the expansive grounds surrounding the Castle.

Transport: Take the train from Carrick-on-Suir to Kilkenny – approx. 2.5hrs.

Day 7 — Travel back in time

Woman reads outside Casino Marino

Casino Marino

Why Visit: It’s your final day in Ireland, so return back to Dublin and prepare to travel back… but not home… not just yet. Travel back in time in Dublin’s neo-classical tardis, Casino Marino (open May – November 2024)

Transport: take the train back from Kilkenny to Dublin – approx. 2 hrs. Take the luas (red line) from Dublin Heuston to city centre and 27 bus to Casino Marino.

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