9 days in Dublin & Galway Itinerary

A history spanning over a thousand years, vibrant nightlife, and a mix of Georgian and modern architecture make Dublin a popular European tourist destination.

Eschew the tourist crowds and head to Bru na Boinne and Jerpoint Glass Studio. For shopping fun, head to Olde Shillelagh Stick Maker or DesignYard. You'll find plenty of places to visit near Dublin: Kilkenny (Kilkenny Castle & Kilkenny Handwrought Silver) and Glasrai Goodies (in Gowran). There's still lots to do: make a trip to Temple Bar, see the interesting displays at Kilmainham Gaol Museum, take in the architecture and design of Trinity College Dublin, and walk around Phoenix Park.

To find ratings, where to stay, more things to do, and more tourist information, refer to the Dublin driving holiday planning tool.

Montreal, Canada to Dublin is an approximately 10-hour flight. The time zone difference moving from Eastern Standard Time (EST) to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) is 5 hours. Expect a daytime high around 16°C in October, and nighttime lows around 8°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 22nd (Sat) so you can drive to Galway.

A major hub for visitors exploring Ireland's western regions, Galway serves as a city of art and culture, renowned for its vibrant lifestyle and numerous festivals.

Eschew the tourist crowds and head to Burren Perfumery and Hehirs Of Clifden. Head to Hazel Mountain Chocolates and The Burren Smokehouse,for some retail therapy. Get out of town with these interesting Galway side-trips: Irish Crafts - Doolin (in Doolin), Cottage Handcrafts (in Moyard) and Cliffs of Moher (in Liscannor). There's still lots to do: explore the wide array of goods at OMG Zhivago, stop by Lowry's Sweater & Gift Shop, pick up some new knowledge with Connemara Blue, and explore the striking landscape of Connemara National Park & Visitor Centre.

To see other places to visit, photos, ratings, and more tourist information, read our Galway tour itinerary builder app.

You can drive from Dublin to Galway in 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train; or take a bus. In October in Galway, expect temperatures between 14°C during the day and 7°C at night. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 25th (Tue) so you can travel back home.