10 days in Ireland and Scotland itinerary

Taking you from history-rich Dublin to top Scottish cities via extraordinary natural landscapes, this Ireland and Scotland itinerary will have you experiencing both countries in immersive style. Read on for detail on what to do and see — and where to stay — on a 10 day tour of Ireland and Scotland you’ll be talking about for years.

Daily 10-day Ireland and Scotland Itinerary

While you could opt to follow a 10 days in Ireland itinerary, or a rewarding 10 day Scotland itinerary, the following trip plan covers top historic, cultural and natural attractions in both countries.

In fact, it’s arguably the best way to spend 10 days in Ireland and Scotland. 

Short on time? Take inspiration from a 7 days in Ireland itinerary, and 7 days in Scotland itinerary.

Day 1: Arrive in Dublin, Ireland

As is often the way with the best Ireland itineraries, this itinerary for Ireland and Scotland kicks off in Dublin — a destination Rough Guides’ readers voted the friendliest city in the world.

After checking in, head to Grafton Street — Dublin’s iconic cultural hub. It’s loaded with boutiques, street performers and historic landmarks, and the perfect place to drink your first pint of Guinness while soaking up the city's infectious charm.

We also recommend visiting Trinity College, and the National Museum of Ireland to learn about Irish history and culture through the centuries.

If you're on a budget, take advantage of free things to do in Dublin.

Where to stay in Dublin

With just one night in the city during this 10 day trip to Ireland and Scotland, you'll want to make the right choice about where to stay in Dublin, perhaps opting for accommodation in the heart of town.

For example, we suggest checking out places to stay in Temple Bar — a lively district that’s loaded with galleries, shops, bars and restaurants.

If you prefer something quieter, research accommodation around Christ Church and St Patrick’s cathedral, which is just west of Temple Bar.

Editor’s tip: ahead of your trip, read up on the best pubs in Ireland for traditional music.

Day 2: Rock of Cashel and Killarney

Day 2 of this Ireland and Scotland itinerary will see you leave Dublin for the historic and natural attractions of the Rock of Cashel and Killarney.

Travel time: 2-hour drive to the Rock of Cashel, plus 2-hour drive to Killarney.

Start your day early with a 2-hour drive from Dublin to the Rock of Cashel — a site that hosts one of the most remarkable collections of Celtic art and medieval architecture in Europe, while serving spectacular panoramic views of the countryside.

Come the afternoon, drive to Killarney in Kerry (2 hours) to explore the charming town, or spend time walking in Killarney National Park.

Boasting some of Ireland’s most spectacular natural landscapes, you could take a boat trip across Killarney’s lakes.

Where to stay in Killarney

When it comes to places to stay in Killarney, if you plan to visit Killarney National Park, we recommend The Gardens B&B. It’s next to the park entrance, and also close to Killarney town center.

Or, if you fancy staying closer to nature, book a pod or luxury suite at Killarney Glamping at the Grove, Suites and Lodges.

Meanwhile, Murphy’s of Killarney combines great hospitality with a central location. 

Day 3: Ring of Kerry

Day 3 of this is itinerary for Ireland and Scotland is devoted to driving the Ring of Kerry — a 179km loop that offers incredible coastal views speckled with scenic villages.

Travel time: 3.5 hours to drive the route without stops.

Along the way, be sure to stop Ladies View — a famous lookout point that was named for Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting.

Rossbeigh Beach is another highlight of the Ring. Located near Glenbeigh, and stretching for over 6 kilometers (4 miles), it’s one of Ireland’s most unspoiled beaches, and offers breath-taking views of Dingle Bay and the surrounding mountains. 

On clear days, you can even catch views of the Blasket Islands from the shoreline.

Come the afternoon, drive to Sneem to enjoy a pub lunch and explore its charming streets and boutiques before traveling to Caherdaniel on the Iveragh Peninsula.

If you fancy another beach stop, head to Derrynane Beach, or if culture’s more your thing, visit Derrynane House — the grand ancestral home of Irish politician Daniel O’Connell — before driving back to Killarney.

Day 4: Cliffs of Moher and Galway

Day 4 of this Ireland and Scotland itinerary covers the Cliffs of Moher and Galway’s cultural charms.

Travel time: 2.5-hours-drive to the Cliffs of Moher, plus 1.5 hours to Galway. 

Rise early to drive from Killarney to the Cliffs of Maher, which is one of Ireland’s most spectacular natural wonders. 

After arriving, spend a few hours walking well-maintained trails that serve soul-stirring views of the Atlantic Ocean and craggy coastline, with the Aran Islands also visible.

Next, drive to Galway, with a view to arriving in the early afternoon so you have time to explore the lively Latin Quarter and stroll Salthill Promenade.

Come the evening, enjoy fresh seafood in a local restaurant — this vibrant west coast city is especially known for its oysters.

Where to stay in Galway

Offering everything from charming townhouses, to budget-friendly hostels, accommodation in Galway covers pretty much every travel style.

For something special, Park House Hotel delivers 4-star luxury in a warm atmosphere, while the 5-star Ardawn House is also elegant and homely.

On a budget? The Nest Boutique Hostel offers comfort and facilities beyond its affordable cost.

Want more ideas for your Ireland itinerary? Read up on the best things to do in Ireland.

Day 5: Return to Dublin and fly to Edinburgh

On day 5, it’s time to return to Dublin to drop off your rental car before taking a short flight to Edinburgh — start-point of many of the best Scotland itineraries, and one of the most beautiful places in Scotland.

Travel time: 2-hour drive back to Dublin, plus 1-hour flight to Edinburgh, Scotland.

Alternatively, if you fancy staying longer in Ireland before switching to Scotland, our guide to how to plan the perfect 1 week trip to Ireland might come in handy.

Either way, after arriving in Edinburgh and checking into your accommodation, why not explore some of the best pubs in Edinburgh?

Where to stay in Edinburgh

When it comes to deciding where to stay in Edinburgh, you really are spoiled for choice. 

First-timers might want to base themselves along the Royal Mile, which happens to be an iconic Edinburgh sight in its own right.

While this is a tourist-heavy area, it’s very attractive, and close to tonnes of top museums, churches, pubs and restaurants, with a warren of steep lanes and secret vaults leading off it.

For all-out luxury and atmosphere, try The Witchery by the Castle. 

Meanwhile, Grassmarket is a great area for stay for buzzy bars and boutiques in the shadow of the castle. 

With a prime location between the Royal Mile and North Bridge and individually designed rooms, we rate The Scotsman Hotel in this area.

Day 6: Explore Edinburgh

Start your day early at the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Perched atop Castle Rock, it’s packed with historic artefacts, including the Crown Jewels and Stone of Destiny.

From the castle, stroll down the Royal Mile, stopping off in charming shops, cafés and landmarks like St. Giles’ Cathedral and the Heart of Midlothian.

Come the afternoon, head up to Arthur’s Seat — an extinct volcano in Holyrood Park. The hike takes around 1.5-hours as a round trip, with the summit serving 360-degree views of the city, coastline and surrounding hills. 

After your hike, it’s time to uncover some local culture in either the National Museum of Scotland or the Scottish National Gallery. Both are centrally located and free to enter.

Alongside visiting these more obvious attractions, check out ways to explore the city’s quirky side.

Super-short on time? Discover the best 3 days in Scotland itinerary, and our top 5 days in Scotland itinerary.

Day 7: Drive to Inverness via Loch Ness

On day 7, drive north to Inverness — hub of the Scottish Highlands — allowing time to stop at Loch Ness en route.

Travel time: 3.5 hours 

A great way to soak up the splendour of Loch Ness is to take a boat tour from the town of Drumnadrochit, where you’ll cruise the famous waters while learning about the legend of the Loch Ness Monster.

After the boat tour, visit Urquhart Castle. Perched dramatically on the shores of Loch Ness, you can climb its towers for panoramic views of the loch, and dive into its rich medieval history at the visitor center. 

Once you’ve explored the castle, continue driving to Inverness. Be sure to stroll along the picturesque River Ness, explore Inverness Castle, stop by St. Andrew’s Cathedral, and visit the Victorian Market.

End your day with dinner at a traditional Highland pub to savor haggis or fresh seafood.

Where to stay in Inverness

Being the main hub of the Highlands, Inverness isn’t short of great places to stay, no matter what budget you’re working to.

For a wonderful mid-price stay, try Corriegarth Hotel. Located in central Inverness, 10 minutes’ walk from the castle and banks of the River Ness, its restaurant specializes in quality pub food and local dishes.

We also rate the rather grand Columba Hotel Inverness, which offers great views of River Ness and Inverness Castle in a quiet area.

Fancy the freedom of your own place? Right on the River Ness, the 4-star Bridge Street Apartments are a great choice.

Day 8: Isle of Skye

Start your day with a scenic drive from Inverness to the Isle of Skye, crossing the Skye Bridge at Kyle of Lochalsh. 

Travel time: 2.5 hours

En route, you’ll see some stunning Highland landscapes, including Loch Cluanie and Eilean Donan Castle, which is well worth a quick photo stop.

Once on Skye, head straight for the Old Man of Storr, a towering rock formation on the Trotternish Peninsula.

For sweeping views of Skye’s rugged landscapes and lochs, park at the trailhead and hike the 1–1.5-hour round trip trail to the base of this iconic pinnacle.

Next, drive 40 minutes to the Fairy Pools. Located near Glen Brittle, and surrounded by the dramatic Cuillin mountains, these crystal-clear pools and waterfalls invite rewarding short hikes. If you’re feeling brave, you could take a quick a dip in the cold water.

Come late afternoon, head to Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls, which are just 30 minutes from the Fairy Pools. 

Resembling the pleats of a kilt, the waterfall that plunges from the cliff to the ocean is something else. 

End your day with dinner in Portree, Skye’s charming main town, before settling into your accommodation to relax after an adventure-filled day.

If you’re feeling especially inspired by this segment of the trip, you might just love our Scotland road trip itineraries.

Where to stay in Portree

While there are lots of pretty places to stay around the Isle of Skye, we suggest basing yourself in Portree to enjoy easy access to the likes of bars and restaurants.

Overlooking Somerled Square, the town’s main square, and built back in 1875, The Portree Hotel is a good 3-star option.

We also rate 4-star Rockview for its food and Scottish heritage vibe just five minutes from the center.

Day 9: Stirling and Glasgow

On the morning of day 9, drive south to explore the city of Stirling before heading onto Glasgow.

Travel time: 2.5 hours to Stirling, plus 1 hour to Glasgow.

On arrival in Stirling, visit Stirling Castle and the National Wallace Monument, a mammoth Victorian monolith high on Abbey Craig to the northeast of the city.

In the early afternoon, continue to Glasgow and start exploring the city from George Square.

Surrounded by beautiful Victorian architecture, including the Glasgow City Chambers, it’s a great spot to soak up the city’s history. Grab a coffee from a café and enjoy the lively city center vibe while seeing statues of notable Scots like Robert Burns. 

Next, head to the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. Located around 10 minutes from George Square by taxi or subway, this stunning red sandstone building houses an impressive collection of art and historic exhibits. 

Highlights include Salvador Dalí’s Christ of Saint John of the Cross and a wonderful collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts.

Round off the afternoon with a visit to the Riverside Museum, Glasgow’s award-winning museum of transport. Located on the banks of the River Clyde, it’s packed with exhibits of vintage cars, locomotives, and a recreated old Glasgow street. 

You can also walk aboard the Tall Ship moored outside for a glimpse into Glasgow’s maritime history.

Where to stay in Glasgow

Whether you want someplace fancy to blow your budget on the last night of your Scotland and Ireland itinerary, or reckon you’ll need to keep costs down, you’ll find a suitable place to stay in Glasgow.

The friendly, family-run Sandyford Hotel makes a good mid-price choice, while The Social Hub Glasgow is a cool, friendly, well-located boutique option.

Day 10: Departure from Glasgow

On day 10, it’s time to say goodbye to Glasgow as your Ireland and Scotland itinerary comes to a close.