Ireland's Ancient East Travel Guide: What to Eat, See, and Explore in 5 Days

We've been meaning to go back to Ireland for a while — and recently we did with a 5-day trip through the Wicklow region. Staying in a quiet Airbnb surrounded by green hills and country lanes, we spent our days chasing coastlines, exploring ancient ruins, and enjoying THE pubs.

Here’s a short and sweet recap — with the highlights, a few practical hacks, and a couple of hidden gems you shouldn’t miss.

The Food: Hearty, Simple, and Hits the Spot

Let’s be honest: Ireland probably won't win the “world’s best cuisine” award — though it will fill your belly with rich, honest food made from good local ingredients. Think slow-cooked stews, fresh fish, and the mandatory, proper pint of Guinness that tastes better than anywhere else.

One place that stood out was The Bridge Tavern in Wicklow — not just for the food, but the whole vibe. Set in a 17th-century inn with tons of character, it’s a cozy gastropub with a sunny terrace that gets the balance right between traditional and modern. We also lucked out with some great live music in the evening (they host performances several times a week), and the energy was fantastic.

And if you like craft beer, you’re in luck — Wicklow has a small and lively brewery scene. We tried the hoppy local brews from Wicklow Wolf, and also stopped by the Wicklow Brewery in Redcross, where the local stout was a proper standout.

🔧 Hack: For the Bridge Tavern, book ahead, and ask for a table by the river — you’ll get the best view in town.

Getting Around: Bring a Car (and a Good Irish Playlist)

Ireland is beautiful, but also wildly impractical if you’re relying on public transport — especially in rural areas like Wicklow. If you want to explore properly, a rental car is a must.

During our stay, we stopped by:

• Glendalough – A stunning valley with early medieval ruins, nestled between two lakes and surrounded by lush trails. It’s peaceful, dramatic, and has that ancient, slightly mystical feel that really makes it Ireland.
• Black Castle – In the charming and walkable town of Wicklow, this ruined fortress built around 1167 by the Normans is perched dramatically over the sea. Once part of the early Norman defenses along Ireland’s east coast, it has seen centuries of conflict and collapse. It’s free to visit and not crowded — one of those spots that quietly blows you away.
• Avondale: Beyond the Trees – A treetop walk and adventure park perfect for a mid-day break, especially if you're traveling with kids or just want a great view from above the forest canopy. Don’t miss the spiral slide down from the viewing tower — it’s fun for all ages and a great way to wrap up the climb. It’s also the birthplace of Irish forestry, where experimental planting began in the early 1900s on an 18th-century estate, and where seed research and conservation continue to play a key role in native woodland restoration.
• Dublin (briefly) – We made a quick dinner stop at The Woollen Mills, a stylish spot right by the Liffey. The food was modern Irish with a twist — and if you can, grab a seat outside for a view of the bridge. Obviously Dublin has much more to offer, though it wasn't the focus for this trip.

🔧 Hack: Download offline maps — mobile signal can vanish when you least expect it.

🔌 Power Hack: We brought a compact travel adapter that converts between EU, UK, US, and AUS plugs, with USB-C and USB-A ports. One adapter, almost all countries sorted — highly recommended.

🚗 Drive Hack: Yes, you drive on the left in Ireland. It feels weird at first. Especially at roundabouts. You’ll get used to it — just stay alert and maybe repeat “left side, left side” until it clicks. If your car doesn't already have one, add a post-it somewhere visible saying 'Keep left!'.

Hidden Gem: Kilmacurragh Botanic Gardens

Easily one of the best botanic gardens we've ever visited — and totally under the radar. Kilmacurragh Botanic Gardens, part of the National Botanic Gardens of Ireland, blends formal landscaping with a natural, majestic beauty.

The grounds surround an 18th-century estate house, and the gardens themselves date back to the mid-1800s. Spanning over 52 acres, Kilmacurragh is home to more than 2,000 species of plants and trees from all over the world. You’ll find giant Himalayan lilies, rhododendrons the size of trees, and rare conifers from Tasmania. It’s peaceful, uncrowded, and stunningly well-preserved.

There’s also a small café on-site that does excellent coffee and homemade cakes — the perfect pit stop after a walk through the gardens.

🔧 Hack: They serve coffee to go — grab one first and enjoy it while strolling through the gardens.

All in all, Wicklow is a great base for a short Irish adventure — close enough to Dublin for a city detour, but far enough to feel like a hidden corner of Ireland.