Ireland on Your Family Travel Bucket List? Here’s How to Make It Happen
Ireland is a land of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and a culture that has been deeply woven into my life. With my father being from Ireland, I spent much of my childhood traveling there, exploring its many wonders long before I had a family of my own. Later, I had the incredible experience of living in Ireland for three years, getting married there, and even welcoming my oldest daughter into the world in this beautiful country. My love for Ireland isn’t just about my heritage—it’s about the joy of discovering its magic over and over again, now through the eyes of my own children. If you’ve ever thought about taking your family to Ireland, let me tell you why it should be at the top of your travel bucket list!
Best Time to Visit Ireland with Kids
Ireland is a fantastic year-round destination, but when traveling with kids, timing can make a difference. With an average yearly temperature ranging from 40-60°F (4-16°C), the weather isn’t as extreme seasonally as in other parts of the world, but there are some key differences to consider.
During the spring and summer months, the days are longer, the temperatures are milder compared to the scorching summers back home in the States, and the lush green landscapes make it an ideal time for outdoor adventures. My kids absolutely love summers in Ireland—especially because they can actually play outside instead of dealing with the 100-degree heat index we get at home. Since Ireland is so far north, the sun stays up much later, and in the height of summer, there’s still a dusky haze of light even at 10 p.m. More than once, we’ve found ourselves swinging at a playground at that hour, thanks to jet lag!
In the fall (September - October), the crowds thin out, and the autumn colors make the landscapes even more stunning. Plus, Halloween in Ireland is an entirely different experience compared to the U.S.—but that’s a whole other post for another day!
Winter (November - March) is a season I personally love, though I might be a bit biased as a winter fan. There’s something magical about cozying up by a warm fire while the smell of peat burning fills the air—a scent that always reminds me of my childhood. The tourist crowds are at their lowest, making it a peaceful time to visit, and Christmas in Ireland is truly enchanting, with festive markets, holiday shows, and twinkling lights adding to the charm.
Weather Tip: No matter the season, pack layers and always have a rain jacket handy—Irish weather can change quickly!
Family-Friendly Destinations We Loved
Galway & Salthill
Galway is full of charm, live music, and family-friendly fun, and my girls absolutely adored our time there. We spent hours at Salthill Promenade and Beach, exploring the shoreline, collecting seashells, and enjoying the fresh Atlantic air. One of our favorite parts of Galway was the street music scene—the girls were captivated by the traditional Irish music played by buskers, making the city feel alive and magical. They also loved the novelty of sitting in a bar with us, sipping on their "drinks" while we enjoyed people-watching. A special highlight was visiting Thomas Dillon, the original Claddagh ring shop, where my daughters picked out their own rings as souvenirs—such a beautiful tradition that made for a truly memorable experience.
Cliffs of Moher
One of Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders, the Cliffs of Moher is an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike. We all loved exploring the scenic walking trails with stunning views of the Atlantic, though the wind that day made it more of a workout than we expected! Even though we'd been before, we were completely unprepared for the weather and ended up buying hoodies at the gift shop just to stay warm. The powerful gusts made the cliffs feel even more dramatic, and the sea spray below created a misty, magical atmosphere. Along the way, we spotted tons of seabirds, which kept the kids entertained as they pointed out the different species. A busker even let Charlotte try playing his accordion—one of those priceless, unexpected travel moments that made the visit even more special. Despite the chilly wind, the breathtaking views and lively atmosphere made it all worth it.
Killarney
Killarney was another highlight of our family trip. We fell in love with the town and how much there was to explore right in the surrounding area. The girls and I had an amazing time walking through Killarney National Park while Paul was off golfing. Our breathtaking walk started right outside our hotel, making it even more convenient and enjoyable. We made our way to Muckross Abbey, where the girls were completely fascinated by the ruins, especially the ancient tree growing inside—such a magical sight! Paul ended up meeting us there, and together, we continued on to Muckross House. From there, we took a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride, known as a Jaunty ride, through the park to the stunning Torc Waterfall. The experience was a huge hit with the kids, and the combination of history, nature, and adventure made for an unforgettable day in Killarney.
Dublin
While we haven’t yet taken our daughters to Dublin, it’s on our list for our next trip! If you’re visiting, some kid-friendly highlights include the Dublin Zoo, located in Phoenix Park—one of the largest city parks in Europe—where children can enjoy seeing a variety of animals in a beautiful, spacious setting. A stop at Trinity College to see the Book of Kells is also a must; I still vividly remember walking through the college as a child and being amazed by the stunning library. Another fantastic spot is the EPIC Irish Emigration Museum, which offers an interactive and engaging experience that both kids and adults can enjoy while learning about Ireland’s rich history of emigration.
Blarney Castle
While we haven't yet taken our girls to this well-known site in Ireland, I still have vivid memories of visiting as a child. I remember laughing as we climbed what felt like an endless number of steps—though in hindsight, it probably wasn’t nearly as many as we kids made it out to be. The biggest challenge, of course, was mustering the courage to lean back and kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. That moment, filled with excitement and nerves, has stuck with me ever since, and I can’t wait to share the experience with my own children one day.
Wicklow National Park
We hiked through the breathtaking scenery, which was a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Over the course of three hours, we experienced everything from warm sunshine—hot by Irish standards—to sudden downpours that had us scrambling for cover. The constantly shifting weather added to the adventure, making the landscape feel even more dynamic and alive. Despite being used to Ireland’s unpredictable climate, we still found ourselves caught off guard, making for some funny memories as we tried to adjust to each new change in conditions.
Northern Ireland Adventures
We’ve spent quite a bit of time in Northern Ireland, as we have family there. There are so many incredible places to explore, and I could easily dedicate an entire post to this region alone! Here are just a few of our favorite experiences.
Giant’s Causeway
Giant’s Causeway is a place we’ve visited multiple times, and it never gets old. The unique rock formations and breathtaking coastal views make it a mesmerizing spot. The kids always love climbing out onto the hexagonal basalt columns, turning the natural wonder into their own adventure playground. Walking along the coastline offers incredible views, and it’s easy to see why this is one of Ireland’s most famous landmarks.
Carrick-a-Rede
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is another thrilling experience, especially for adventurous kids who love heights and dramatic sea views. I have distinct memories of crossing it as a child, then returning years later while I was pregnant, hoping the excitement might bring on labor! More recently, we took our kids for their first time two years ago, and it was just as breathtaking as I remembered.
Ballycastle Beach
Ballycastle Beach is a spot we keep coming back to. It’s the perfect place for a relaxed seaside day, with a beautiful promenade and boardwalk leading to the sandy shore. The kids love spending time at the playground while we take a seat and enjoy the ocean views. And, of course, no visit is complete without an ice cream stop—there are plenty of great options nearby!
The Sperrin Mountains
The Sperrin Mountains & Troll Sculptures are a hidden gem of Northern Ireland. We’ve seen three of the four giant troll sculptures created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, and pictures simply don’t do them justice. Each one is a masterpiece tucked away in the landscape, making for a fun treasure hunt. One of the walks was a bit more challenging than the others, and the strong winds that day only added to the adventure. Did I mention that it can get pretty windy up in the Irish mountains? It’s an experience we won’t forget!
Other Amazing Places to Visit in Ireland
While we haven’t been to these places yet, they are on our must-visit list for future trips!
Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, is known for its Viking history, the famous Waterford Crystal, and charming medieval streets.
Connemara offers rugged landscapes, stunning mountains, and rich Irish culture, perfect for those who love outdoor adventures.
Donegal boasts some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in Ireland, including the breathtaking Slieve League Cliffs, which are even higher than the Cliffs of Moher.
The Dingle Peninsula is famous for its stunning coastal drives and the charming town of Dingle, where visitors can explore the harbor and perhaps spot a dolphin.
Cobh, a vibrant harbor town, is steeped in Titanic history and features colorful streets and a fascinating emigration museum.
Kylemore Abbey, a picturesque lakeside castle, is known for its beautiful gardens and peaceful atmosphere, making it a perfect family-friendly stop.
Tips for Moms Planning an Ireland Trip
Pack Light & Use Laundry Services:
Many cities in Ireland have affordable laundry services, so you don’t need to overpack. We once paid just 10 euros for a full load of washing, drying, and folding, which was delivered back to our hotel. This made packing much easier and saved us from lugging around extra clothes.
Packing for the Weather: Bring layers, rain gear, and comfortable walking shoes. The weather in Ireland can change quickly, sometimes covering all four seasons in a single day! As I’ve mentioned before, the wind can be strong, especially along the coast and in the mountains, so being prepared ensures everyone stays comfortable throughout the trip. The weather can change quickly, and being prepared ensures everyone stays comfortable throughout the trip. Like I have mentioned previously, the weather can range to cover all seasons in one day, and it does get windy!
Transportation: Renting a car offers flexibility, especially if you want to explore the countryside at your own pace. However, driving in Ireland is not for the faint of heart. They drive on the opposite side of the car and the opposite side of the road from Americans, which can take some getting used to. Most rental cars have manual transmissions, so if you’re not comfortable driving a stick shift, be sure to request an automatic in advance. While we’re used to it after years of driving there, I often forget how narrow many of Ireland’s roads are compared to what most Americans are accustomed to. A friend of mine recently returned from a self-drive tour of Ireland (which I didn’t book, or I would have talked her out of it!) and told me that she has driven in most of the world—including India—and Ireland was by far the scariest driving experience of her life. If navigating tight roads, roundabouts, and opposite-side driving makes you nervous, Ireland’s public transportation system is a great alternative. Trains, buses, and guided tours make it easy to get around without the stress of driving yourself.
Accommodations:
While we have often stayed with family during our visits to Ireland, we’ve also had the opportunity to experience a variety of accommodations while traveling around the island. While we have stayed in chain hotels in some places, we’ve truly loved branching out and exploring more unique lodging options. Consider family-friendly hotels, cozy Airbnbs, or even farm stays for a more immersive experience. Some of our absolute favorite stays have been in glamping pods—we’ve stayed in two different ones on separate trips, and they were by far our favorite places to stay, even over the fancy hotels with room service. The combination of nature, comfort, and a bit of adventure made them stand out. We’ve also had great experiences at charming boutique hotels and countryside bed & breakfasts that offered a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Many accommodations in Ireland provide family suites or kid-friendly amenities, making your stay even more enjoyable and stress-free. Whether you prefer the luxury of a castle stay, the comfort of a modern hotel, or the charm of a farmhouse retreat, Ireland has something to suit every family’s travel style.
Pacing the Trip: Kids need downtime! I say this as much for myself as for anyone else—just ask my husband. I tend to get a little overzealous and try to pack in too many stops in a short amount of time, which can leave everyone a wee bit cranky by the end of the trip. Ireland has so much to offer, but some of our best travel moments have come from slowing down—wandering through a town, listening to street musicians, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. Don’t overpack the itinerary; leave space to embrace the slower pace of Irish life.
Ireland is more than just a dream destination—it’s a place where families can bond, explore, and create lifelong memories. Whether it’s walking along the Cliffs of Moher, listening to music in Galway, or wandering through the historic streets of Dublin, Ireland has a way of leaving a lasting impression on your heart. No matter how many times I visit, there’s always something new to discover, and I love sharing those experiences with my family.
If you’re thinking about planning a family trip to Ireland but don’t know where to start, I’d love to help! Whether you need itinerary suggestions, accommodations, or just a little encouragement to take the leap, feel free to reach out. Ireland has given me so many unforgettable moments, and I’d love to help you create your own.
Until next time, here’s to making time for yourself - you deserve it!
~ Jillian
#YouDeserveABreak #MotherhoodRedefined #MomsSupportingMoms #Momcations #MoreThanJustAMom
Helpful Links for Your Trip
Note: None of these are affiliate links—these are just places I personally love and have stayed or visited!
To make planning easier, here are some useful links to the places mentioned in this post:
