8 days in Athlone & Dublin Itinerary

The largest town on the River Shannon has earned the moniker of Gateway to the West for its strategic location; visitors are attracted to Athlone for its vibrant streets.

Kids will appreciate attractions like Derryglad Folk and Heritage Museum and Boat Tours & Water Sports. Venture out of the city with trips to Coleman Music Centre (in Gorteen), The Irish Workhouse Centre (in Portumna) and Rathcroghan Royal Site & Visitor Centre (in Tulsk). Next up on the itinerary: identify plant and animal life at Quaker Island, stroll through Glendeer Pet Farm, and test your team's savvy at popular escape rooms.

For where to stay, more things to do, and tourist information, you can read our Athlone day trip planning website.

Dublin to Athlone is an approximately 1.5-hour car ride. You can also drive; or take a train; or take a bus. In August, daily temperatures in Athlone can reach 19°C, while at night they dip to 12°C. Cap off your sightseeing on the 3rd (Wed) early enough to go by car to Dublin.

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

Kids will enjoy Kilmainham Gaol Museum and St Stephens Green. Venture out of the city with trips to Kilkenny (Black Abbey, Hawkeye School of Falconry, &more). And it doesn't end there: browse the exhibits of Guinness Storehouse, take a stroll through Temple Bar, take in the local highlights with Walking tours, and ponder the world of politics at Dublin Castle.

To see reviews, more things to do, and other tourist information, you can read our Dublin online holiday planner.

Traveling by car from Athlone to Dublin takes 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or take a train; or take a bus. In August, plan for daily highs up to 22°C, and evening lows to 12°C. Finish your sightseeing early on the 8th (Mon) so you can travel back home.