Dublin & Edinburgh 11-Day Trip Itinerary

Flight from Leipzig to Dublin

Depart from Leipzig/Halle Airport (LEJ) and fly to Dublin Airport (DUB).

Hotel Check-in

Check into your hotel in Dublin and leave your luggage.

Trinity College & Book of Kells

Explore the historic campus of Trinity College Dublin, including the magnificent Long Room library and the ancient Book of Kells.

Book tickets online in advance, especially for the Book of Kells, as it can get very busy.

Stroll Grafton Street

Enjoy a leisurely walk along Grafton Street, Dublin's premier shopping street, known for its street performers and elegant shops.

Great for people-watching and soaking in the city atmosphere.

Dinner in Temple Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Temple Bar area with dinner at a traditional Irish pub.

While popular and lively, prices in Temple Bar can be higher than other areas. Explore nearby streets for more local options if preferred.

Cliffs of Moher & Galway Tour

Embark on a full-day guided bus tour from Dublin to experience the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher and explore the vibrant city of Galway.

This is a long day trip, but highly recommended for experiencing Ireland's stunning west coast. Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers as weather at the Cliffs can be unpredictable. Tours typically include stops in charming villages and scenic viewpoints.

Belfast City Day Trip

Take a bus trip north to Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Explore the city's history, visit Titanic Belfast, and see the Peace Wall murals.

Many tours offer a comprehensive overview of Belfast, including its political history and recent regeneration. Remember to bring your passport as you will cross an international border, though there are no formal checks.

Guinness Storehouse Tour

Discover the history of Ireland's most famous stout, learn about its brewing process, and enjoy a pint with panoramic city views from the Gravity Bar.

Book tickets online in advance to secure your preferred time slot and avoid queues. This is a very popular attraction.

Dublin Castle Exploration

Explore the grounds of Dublin Castle, including the State Apartments, Chapel Royal, and the Chester Beatty Library (free entry, often located on site).

Some areas of the castle require a guided tour, which can be booked upon arrival or online.

The Little Museum of Dublin

Visit this award-winning museum for a unique and entertaining guided tour celebrating Dublin's history.

Their famous 29-minute guided tours are highly recommended. Booking in advance is advisable due to limited space.

Traditional Irish Pub Night

Enjoy an evening in a local Dublin pub, listen to traditional Irish music, and soak in the friendly atmosphere.

Many pubs offer live music nightly. Ask locals for recommendations for authentic experiences outside the main tourist areas.

Flight from Dublin to Edinburgh

Check out from your Dublin hotel and head to Dublin Airport (DUB) for your flight to Edinburgh Airport (EDI).

Hotel Check-in Edinburgh

Check into your accommodation in Edinburgh.

Royal Mile Stroll & Old Town

Begin your exploration of Edinburgh with a walk down the historic Royal Mile, the main artery of Edinburgh's Old Town, connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.

The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, filled with narrow closes, historic buildings, and street performers. Plenty of shops and cafes along the way.

The Scotch Whisky Experience

Immerse yourself in the world of Scottish whisky with an interactive tour and tasting experience located right next to Edinburgh Castle.

Learn about the history and production of Scotch whisky, culminating in a tutored tasting.

Dinner in Old Town

Enjoy dinner at one of the many traditional restaurants or pubs in Edinburgh's atmospheric Old Town.

Try Scottish specialties like haggis (if you're adventurous!), neeps, and tatties, or fresh seafood.

Glenfinnan Viaduct & Glencoe Tour

Embark on a full-day tour from Edinburgh to explore the dramatic landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, including Glencoe, Loch Shiel, and the famous Glenfinnan Viaduct (Harry Potter bridge).

Bring comfortable shoes and layers of clothing. Pack snacks and water. Booking required.

Edinburgh Castle Visit

Explore Scotland's most iconic fortress, Edinburgh Castle, a historic stronghold dominating the skyline of Edinburgh from its perch on Castle Rock.

Book tickets in advance, especially for a Saturday. Allow plenty of time to explore the various exhibits.

Stroll the Royal Mile & Old Town

Walk along the historic Royal Mile, connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, and explore the charming closes and winding streets of Edinburgh's Old Town.

Many shops, pubs, and historical monuments to discover. Grab a quick lunch at one of the local eateries.

The Scotch Whisky Experience

Take an immersive journey into the world of Scotch whisky, from grain to glass, including a barrel ride and a tasting.

Located right next to Edinburgh Castle. Booking recommended.

Train to London

Board a train from Edinburgh to London, enjoying the scenic journey south through the British countryside.

Westminster Abbey Visit

Explore the historic Westminster Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for royal coronations, weddings, and burials.

Book tickets online to secure your entry time. Check for Sunday service times which may affect visitor access.

Buckingham Palace & Changing of the Guard

Walk past Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the Queen.

If timing allows, witness the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony.

Check the official schedule for the Changing of the Guard, as it doesn't happen daily, especially on Sundays.

British Museum Exploration

Discover world-famous collections spanning human history, art, and culture, including the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies.

Entry to the main collection is free, but consider a donation. Special exhibitions may require a fee. Arrive early to avoid crowds.

Dinner in Covent Garden

Enjoy an evening meal in the vibrant Covent Garden area, known for its street performers, boutiques, and diverse dining options.

Many restaurants cater to different tastes and budgets. Consider booking if you have a specific restaurant in mind for Sunday evening.

Tower of London Exploration

Visit the historic Tower of London, home to the Crown Jewels, the Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters), and centuries of fascinating, often gruesome, history.

Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially on a Monday. Consider joining a Yeoman Warder tour for an entertaining history lesson. Book tickets online.

Lunch at Borough Market

Indulge in a diverse culinary experience at Borough Market, one of London's oldest and most renowned food markets.

Perfect for grabbing a delicious and varied lunch from a multitude of vendors. Can get very busy.

Eurostar to Paris

Take the high-speed Eurostar train from London St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord, a convenient and quick way to cross the Channel.

Dinner near Gare du Nord

Enjoy your first Parisian dinner near your arrival station, settling into the city's culinary delights.

Numerous brasseries and restaurants are available in the area. Try a traditional French bistro.

Eiffel Tower Experience

Visit the iconic Eiffel Tower.

Enjoy views from the Champ de Mars or Trocadéro, or ascend to the top for panoramic city views.

Book tickets well in advance, especially for summer travel, to avoid long queues. Consider a morning visit to beat some of the crowds.

Louvre Museum Highlights

Explore the world-famous Louvre Museum, home to thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.

Pre-book timed entry tickets online to bypass the main queues. Focus on a few key areas to make the most of your visit.

Notre-Dame Cathedral (Exterior)

Admire the magnificent Gothic architecture of Notre-Dame Cathedral from the exterior, which is currently undergoing restoration after the 2019 fire.

While interior access is currently restricted, the exterior view remains impressive, and you can appreciate its historical significance. Price varies. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187147-d188679-Reviews-Cathedrale_Notre_Dame_de_Paris-Paris_Ile_de_France.html

Galeries Lafayette Visit

Experience the grandeur of Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann, a luxurious department store known for its stunning Art Nouveau dome and designer brands.

Enjoy panoramic views from the rooftop terrace.

Even if not shopping, the architecture and rooftop views are worth a visit. Price varies. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g187147-d189193-Reviews-Galeries_Lafayette_Paris_Haussmann-Paris_Ile_de_France.html

Breakfast in Paris

Enjoy a classic French breakfast at a local café near your accommodation, savoring croissants and coffee for one last time.

Look for a boulangerie with fresh pastries for an authentic experience.

Galeries Lafayette Visit

Visit the iconic Galeries Lafayette department store.

Marvel at its stunning Art Nouveau dome, enjoy some window shopping, or pick up a last-minute souvenir. Head to the rooftop terrace for panoramic city views.

The rooftop terrace offers one of the best free views of Paris.

Transfer to Gare de l'Est

Travel to Paris Gare de l'Est to catch your train to Leipzig.

Allow ample time for transport and navigating the station.

Train Journey to Leipzig

Embark on your train journey from Paris Gare de l'Est back to Leipzig.

This will typically involve a change in a German city like Frankfurt (Main) Hbf or Mannheim Hbf.

Relax and enjoy the changing European landscapes. Consider bringing snacks and entertainment.