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29 Day itinerary in Ireland, Europe

Ireland to Istanbul

Embark on an exhilarating four-week journey through the diverse landscapes and vibrant cities of Europe, starting from Ireland and concluding in the enchanting metropolis of Istanbul. Begin your adventure in Dublin, Ireland's dynamic capital. Stroll through Trinity College, visit the historic Dubli... Read More

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DonalLaurenCodyLisaNatashaNiamh

By Donal, Lauren, Cody, Lisa, Natasha and Niamh

Overview

Physical Difficulty

Easy
help_outline

Recommended Age

Everyone

Operated in

English

GUIDANCE

On Some Day Trips

starting point

Dublin

trip type

Private

trip attributes

Visit markets

Culture & History

Nature & Wildlife

Food & Culinary

Purposeful Travel

Water & Coastline

Start

Night

End

Highlights

1

Guinness Storehouse

2

Buckingham Palace

3

The Blue Mosque

4

The Romanian Athenaeum

Itinerary

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Day 1

place Arrive in Dublin & stay overnight in Dublin

Your 4 week trip will commence in Ireland's capital city Dublin, where history, literature, and conviviality converge. The River Liffey divides the city, connecting iconic landmarks like Trinity College, home to the Book of Kells, and the historic Dublin Castle. Temple Bar, a cultural and entertainment hub, buzzes with pubs, galleries, and street performers. Dublin's literary heritage is celebrated in places like the Dublin Writers Museum and the James Joyce Centre. St. Patrick's Cathedral and Christ Church Cathedral stand as architectural treasures, while the friendly atmosphere of local pubs invites visitors to savor traditional Irish music and a pint of Guinness. Dublin is a city where ancient tales meet modern cheerfulness, creating an inviting and dynamic urban experience.

Day 2

place Explore Dublin & stay overnight in Dublin

Dublin, the lively capital of Ireland, is a city where history, literature, and conviviality converge. The River Liffey divides the city, connecting iconic landmarks like Trinity College, home to the Book of Kells, and the historic Dublin Castle. Temple Bar, a cultural and entertainment hub, buzzes with pubs, galleries, and street performers. Dublin's literary heritage is celebrated in places like the Dublin Writers Museum and the James Joyce Centre. St. Patrick's Cathedral and Christ Church Cathedral stand as architectural treasures, while the friendly atmosphere of local pubs invites visitors to savor traditional Irish music and a pint of Guinness. Dublin is a city where ancient tales meet modern cheerfulness, creating an inviting and dynamic urban experience.

Day 3

place Explore Dublin & stay overnight in Dublin

Dublin, the lively capital of Ireland, is a city where history, literature, and conviviality converge. The River Liffey divides the city, connecting iconic landmarks like Trinity College, home to the Book of Kells, and the historic Dublin Castle. Temple Bar, a cultural and entertainment hub, buzzes with pubs, galleries, and street performers. Dublin's literary heritage is celebrated in places like the Dublin Writers Museum and the James Joyce Centre. St. Patrick's Cathedral and Christ Church Cathedral stand as architectural treasures, while the friendly atmosphere of local pubs invites visitors to savor traditional Irish music and a pint of Guinness. Dublin is a city where ancient tales meet modern cheerfulness, creating an inviting and dynamic urban experience.

Day 4

place Ferry from Dublin to London & stay overnight in London

You will get a ferry from Dublin to Holyhead then will get the train from Holyhead to London, the dynamic capital of the United Kingdom.  This city is a global metropolis that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. From the iconic Big Ben and the historic Tower of London to the contemporary architecture of the Shard, the city's skyline is a testament to its rich history and cosmopolitan energy. Cultural treasures reside in world-renowned institutions like the British Museum, the Tate Modern, and the West End theaters. London's diverse neighborhoods, from the bustling markets of Camden to the refined streets of Mayfair, offer a kaleidoscope of experiences. The River Thames weaves through the city, connecting landmarks like the London Eye and the South Bank. With its royal palaces, green parks, and a multicultural culinary scene, London invites exploration and promises a vibrant urban adventure.

Day 5

place Explore London & stay overnight in London

London, the dynamic capital of the United Kingdom, is a global metropolis that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. From the iconic Big Ben and the historic Tower of London to the contemporary architecture of the Shard, the city's skyline is a testament to its rich history and cosmopolitan energy. Cultural treasures reside in world-renowned institutions like the British Museum, the Tate Modern, and the West End theaters. London's diverse neighborhoods, from the bustling markets of Camden to the refined streets of Mayfair, offer a kaleidoscope of experiences. The River Thames weaves through the city, connecting landmarks like the London Eye and the South Bank. With its royal palaces, green parks, and a multicultural culinary scene, London invites exploration and promises a vibrant urban adventure.

Day 6

place Explore London & stay overnight in London

London, the dynamic capital of the United Kingdom, is a global metropolis that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. From the iconic Big Ben and the historic Tower of London to the contemporary architecture of the Shard, the city's skyline is a testament to its rich history and cosmopolitan energy. Cultural treasures reside in world-renowned institutions like the British Museum, the Tate Modern, and the West End theaters. London's diverse neighborhoods, from the bustling markets of Camden to the refined streets of Mayfair, offer a kaleidoscope of experiences. The River Thames weaves through the city, connecting landmarks like the London Eye and the South Bank. With its royal palaces, green parks, and a multicultural culinary scene, London invites exploration and promises a vibrant urban adventure.

Day 7

place Train from London to Paris & stay overnight in Paris

Paris, the City of Light, is an enchanting tapestry of art, romance, and timeless elegance. The iconic Eiffel Tower stands as a symbol of the city's allure, overlooking the Seine River and the charming bridges that connect its historic neighborhoods. The Louvre Museum, home to the Mona Lisa, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral embody Parisian cultural richness. Strolling along the Champs-Élysées leads to the Arc de Triomphe, while the artistic spirit of Montmartre captivates with its bohemian charm. Parisian cafés invite leisurely moments, and the Seine's riverbanks provide a picturesque setting for a romantic cruise. With its grand boulevards, world-class cuisine, and a palpable sense of joie de vivre, Paris remains an eternal destination for lovers of art, culture, and the finer things in life.

Day 8

place Explore Paris & stay overnight in Paris

Paris, the City of Light, is an enchanting tapestry of art, romance, and timeless elegance. The iconic Eiffel Tower stands as a symbol of the city's allure, overlooking the Seine River and the charming bridges that connect its historic neighborhoods. The Louvre Museum, home to the Mona Lisa, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral embody Parisian cultural richness. Strolling along the Champs-Élysées leads to the Arc de Triomphe, while the artistic spirit of Montmartre captivates with its bohemian charm. Parisian cafés invite leisurely moments, and the Seine's riverbanks provide a picturesque setting for a romantic cruise. With its grand boulevards, world-class cuisine, and a palpable sense of joie de vivre, Paris remains an eternal destination for lovers of art, culture, and the finer things in life.

Day 9

place Explore Paris & stay overnight in Paris

Paris, the City of Light, is an enchanting tapestry of art, romance, and timeless elegance. The iconic Eiffel Tower stands as a symbol of the city's allure, overlooking the Seine River and the charming bridges that connect its historic neighborhoods. The Louvre Museum, home to the Mona Lisa, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral embody Parisian cultural richness. Strolling along the Champs-Élysées leads to the Arc de Triomphe, while the artistic spirit of Montmartre captivates with its bohemian charm. Parisian cafés invite leisurely moments, and the Seine's riverbanks provide a picturesque setting for a romantic cruise. With its grand boulevards, world-class cuisine, and a palpable sense of joie de vivre, Paris remains an eternal destination for lovers of art, culture, and the finer things in life.

Day 10

place Train from Paris to Amsterdam & stay overnight in Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a city of picturesque canals, historic architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. The iconic canal ring, lined with narrow houses and crossed by charming bridges, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bicycles weave through the city's streets, reflecting Amsterdam's cycling culture. World-class museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, showcase artistic masterpieces. The Anne Frank House and the historic Jordaan district add layers of history and authenticity. Amsterdam's open-minded atmosphere is evident in its diverse neighborhoods, trendy boutiques, and eclectic nightlife. Whether exploring the flower-filled Keukenhof Gardens or savoring Dutch treats in a cozy café, Amsterdam invites visitors to experience its unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Day 11

place Explore Amsterdam & stay overnight in Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a city of picturesque canals, historic architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. The iconic canal ring, lined with narrow houses and crossed by charming bridges, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bicycles weave through the city's streets, reflecting Amsterdam's cycling culture. World-class museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, showcase artistic masterpieces. The Anne Frank House and the historic Jordaan district add layers of history and authenticity. Amsterdam's open-minded atmosphere is evident in its diverse neighborhoods, trendy boutiques, and eclectic nightlife. Whether exploring the flower-filled Keukenhof Gardens or savoring Dutch treats in a cozy café, Amsterdam invites visitors to experience its unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Day 12

place Explore Amsterdam & stay overnight in Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a city of picturesque canals, historic architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. The iconic canal ring, lined with narrow houses and crossed by charming bridges, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bicycles weave through the city's streets, reflecting Amsterdam's cycling culture. World-class museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, showcase artistic masterpieces. The Anne Frank House and the historic Jordaan district add layers of history and authenticity. Amsterdam's open-minded atmosphere is evident in its diverse neighborhoods, trendy boutiques, and eclectic nightlife. Whether exploring the flower-filled Keukenhof Gardens or savoring Dutch treats in a cozy café, Amsterdam invites visitors to experience its unique blend of tradition and modernity.

Day 13

place Train from Amsterdam to Berlin & stay overnight in Berlin

Berlin, the vibrant capital of Germany, is a city where history, creativity, and modernity converge. The remnants of the Berlin Wall serve as a poignant reminder of the city's divided past, while Checkpoint Charlie and the Brandenburg Gate symbolize reunification and resilience. Museumsinsel (Museum Island) boasts world-class art and artifacts, and the East Side Gallery transforms sections of the wall into a vibrant canvas of street art. Berlin's neighborhoods, from the trendy boutiques of Mitte to the alternative vibes of Kreuzberg, offer diverse experiences. The city's nightlife is legendary, with techno beats echoing through clubs and beer gardens providing a laid-back atmosphere. Berlin's evolving identity, shaped by its tumultuous history and creative spirit, makes it a compelling and dynamic European capital.

Day 14

place Explore Berlin & stay overnight in Berlin

Berlin, the vibrant capital of Germany, is a city where history, creativity, and modernity converge. The remnants of the Berlin Wall serve as a poignant reminder of the city's divided past, while Checkpoint Charlie and the Brandenburg Gate symbolize reunification and resilience. Museumsinsel (Museum Island) boasts world-class art and artifacts, and the East Side Gallery transforms sections of the wall into a vibrant canvas of street art. Berlin's neighborhoods, from the trendy boutiques of Mitte to the alternative vibes of Kreuzberg, offer diverse experiences. The city's nightlife is legendary, with techno beats echoing through clubs and beer gardens providing a laid-back atmosphere. Berlin's evolving identity, shaped by its tumultuous history and creative spirit, makes it a compelling and dynamic European capital.

Day 15

place Explore Berlin & stay overnight in Berlin

Berlin, the vibrant capital of Germany, is a city where history, creativity, and modernity converge. The remnants of the Berlin Wall serve as a poignant reminder of the city's divided past, while Checkpoint Charlie and the Brandenburg Gate symbolize reunification and resilience. Museumsinsel (Museum Island) boasts world-class art and artifacts, and the East Side Gallery transforms sections of the wall into a vibrant canvas of street art. Berlin's neighborhoods, from the trendy boutiques of Mitte to the alternative vibes of Kreuzberg, offer diverse experiences. The city's nightlife is legendary, with techno beats echoing through clubs and beer gardens providing a laid-back atmosphere. Berlin's evolving identity, shaped by its tumultuous history and creative spirit, makes it a compelling and dynamic European capital.

Day 16

place Train from Berlin to Prague & stay overnight in Prague

Prague, the fairy-tale capital of the Czech Republic, enchants visitors with its medieval charm and architectural splendor. The historic Old Town Square, adorned with the Astronomical Clock, and the majestic Prague Castle overlooking the Vltava River, transport visitors to a bygone era. Narrow cobblestone streets lead to hidden courtyards, while the iconic Charles Bridge offers panoramic views of the city's skyline. Prague's rich cultural heritage is reflected in its world-class museums, such as the National Museum and the Kafka Museum. The city's vibrant atmosphere is heightened by lively markets, street musicians, and traditional Czech pubs serving hearty cuisine and renowned beers. With its romantic ambiance and timeless beauty, Prague is a city that captures the imagination and leaves a lasting impression.

Day 17

place Explore Prague & stay overnight in Prague

Prague, the fairy-tale capital of the Czech Republic, enchants visitors with its medieval charm and architectural splendor. The historic Old Town Square, adorned with the Astronomical Clock, and the majestic Prague Castle overlooking the Vltava River, transport visitors to a bygone era. Narrow cobblestone streets lead to hidden courtyards, while the iconic Charles Bridge offers panoramic views of the city's skyline. Prague's rich cultural heritage is reflected in its world-class museums, such as the National Museum and the Kafka Museum. The city's vibrant atmosphere is heightened by lively markets, street musicians, and traditional Czech pubs serving hearty cuisine and renowned beers. With its romantic ambiance and timeless beauty, Prague is a city that captures the imagination and leaves a lasting impression.

Day 18

place Explore Prague & stay overnight in Prague

Prague, the fairy-tale capital of the Czech Republic, enchants visitors with its medieval charm and architectural splendor. The historic Old Town Square, adorned with the Astronomical Clock, and the majestic Prague Castle overlooking the Vltava River, transport visitors to a bygone era. Narrow cobblestone streets lead to hidden courtyards, while the iconic Charles Bridge offers panoramic views of the city's skyline. Prague's rich cultural heritage is reflected in its world-class museums, such as the National Museum and the Kafka Museum. The city's vibrant atmosphere is heightened by lively markets, street musicians, and traditional Czech pubs serving hearty cuisine and renowned beers. With its romantic ambiance and timeless beauty, Prague is a city that captures the imagination and leaves a lasting impression.

Day 19

place Train from Prague to Budapest & stay overnight in Budapest

Budapest, the captivating capital of Hungary, is a city of thermal baths, historic grandeur, and a vibrant riverfront. The Danube River gracefully divides the city into Buda and Pest, connected by iconic bridges like the Chain Bridge. Buda Castle overlooks the city from the Castle Hill, offering breathtaking views of the Parliament building and the cityscape. Budapest's rich history is evident in its thermal baths, including the famous Széchenyi Baths. The eclectic architecture of the Hungarian Parliament, the Fisherman's Bastion, and the Great Market Hall add to the city's visual allure. With its lively ruin bars, cultural festivals, and a blend of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences, Budapest invites exploration and relaxation in equal measure.

Day 20

place Explore Budapest & stay overnight in Budapest

Budapest, the captivating capital of Hungary, is a city of thermal baths, historic grandeur, and a vibrant riverfront. The Danube River gracefully divides the city into Buda and Pest, connected by iconic bridges like the Chain Bridge. Buda Castle overlooks the city from the Castle Hill, offering breathtaking views of the Parliament building and the cityscape. Budapest's rich history is evident in its thermal baths, including the famous Széchenyi Baths. The eclectic architecture of the Hungarian Parliament, the Fisherman's Bastion, and the Great Market Hall add to the city's visual allure. With its lively ruin bars, cultural festivals, and a blend of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences, Budapest invites exploration and relaxation in equal measure.

Day 21

place Explore Budapest & stay overnight in Budapest

Budapest, the captivating capital of Hungary, is a city of thermal baths, historic grandeur, and a vibrant riverfront. The Danube River gracefully divides the city into Buda and Pest, connected by iconic bridges like the Chain Bridge. Buda Castle overlooks the city from the Castle Hill, offering breathtaking views of the Parliament building and the cityscape. Budapest's rich history is evident in its thermal baths, including the famous Széchenyi Baths. The eclectic architecture of the Hungarian Parliament, the Fisherman's Bastion, and the Great Market Hall add to the city's visual allure. With its lively ruin bars, cultural festivals, and a blend of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences, Budapest invites exploration and relaxation in equal measure.

Day 22

place Overnight train from Budapest to Bucharest

You will take overnight train from Budapest to Bucharest, a private sleeper cabin will be booked for this journey. 

Day 23

place Explore Bucharest & stay overnight in Bucharest

Bucharest, the dynamic capital of Romania, is a city of contrasts blending communist-era architecture with Belle Époque elegance. The imposing Palace of the Parliament, a legacy of the Ceaușescu regime, stands alongside charming neighborhoods like Lipscani, known for its historic streets and vibrant nightlife. The Arcul de Triumf echoes French influence, while the Village Museum showcases traditional Romanian architecture. Bucharest's green spaces, like Herastrau Park, offer a retreat from urban bustle, and the eclectic cuisine ranges from street food markets to elegant restaurants. As a city with a complex history and a contemporary spirit, Bucharest invites exploration and promises a diverse cultural experience.

Day 24

place Explore Bucharest & stay overnight in Bucharest

Bucharest, the dynamic capital of Romania, is a city of contrasts blending communist-era architecture with Belle Époque elegance. The imposing Palace of the Parliament, a legacy of the Ceaușescu regime, stands alongside charming neighborhoods like Lipscani, known for its historic streets and vibrant nightlife. The Arcul de Triumf echoes French influence, while the Village Museum showcases traditional Romanian architecture. Bucharest's green spaces, like Herastrau Park, offer a retreat from urban bustle, and the eclectic cuisine ranges from street food markets to elegant restaurants. As a city with a complex history and a contemporary spirit, Bucharest invites exploration and promises a diverse cultural experience.

Day 25

place Overnight Bus from Bucharest to Istanbul

You will take overnight bus from Bucharest to Istanbul

Day 26

place Explore Istanbul & stay overnight in Istanbul

Istanbul, the transcontinental city straddling Europe and Asia, is a tapestry of ancient wonders and modern vibrancy. The Hagia Sophia, once a Byzantine cathedral and Ottoman mosque, stands as a testament to Istanbul's rich history. The Blue Mosque, with its iconic domes and minarets, graces the skyline alongside the historic Topkapi Palace. The bustling Grand Bazaar, a labyrinth of shops and stalls, immerses visitors in a sensory experience. The Bosphorus Strait, connecting the Sea of Marmara to the Black Sea, offers scenic boat rides between continents. Istanbul's diverse neighborhoods, from the trendy Beyoglu to the historic Sultanahmet, reflect the city's multifaceted identity. With its vibrant street life, aromatic spice markets, and a blend of cultures, Istanbul is a captivating metropolis where East meets West.

Day 27

place Explore Istanbul & stay overnight in Istanbul

Istanbul, the transcontinental city straddling Europe and Asia, is a tapestry of ancient wonders and modern vibrancy. The Hagia Sophia, once a Byzantine cathedral and Ottoman mosque, stands as a testament to Istanbul's rich history. The Blue Mosque, with its iconic domes and minarets, graces the skyline alongside the historic Topkapi Palace. The bustling Grand Bazaar, a labyrinth of shops and stalls, immerses visitors in a sensory experience. The Bosphorus Strait, connecting the Sea of Marmara to the Black Sea, offers scenic boat rides between continents. Istanbul's diverse neighborhoods, from the trendy Beyoglu to the historic Sultanahmet, reflect the city's multifaceted identity. With its vibrant street life, aromatic spice markets, and a blend of cultures, Istanbul is a captivating metropolis where East meets West.

Day 28

place Explore Istanbul & stay overnight in Istanbul

Istanbul, the transcontinental city straddling Europe and Asia, is a tapestry of ancient wonders and modern vibrancy. The Hagia Sophia, once a Byzantine cathedral and Ottoman mosque, stands as a testament to Istanbul's rich history. The Blue Mosque, with its iconic domes and minarets, graces the skyline alongside the historic Topkapi Palace. The bustling Grand Bazaar, a labyrinth of shops and stalls, immerses visitors in a sensory experience. The Bosphorus Strait, connecting the Sea of Marmara to the Black Sea, offers scenic boat rides between continents. Istanbul's diverse neighborhoods, from the trendy Beyoglu to the historic Sultanahmet, reflect the city's multifaceted identity. With its vibrant street life, aromatic spice markets, and a blend of cultures, Istanbul is a captivating metropolis where East meets West.

Day 29

place Last Day of your Trip

Your trip will end in Istanbul where you will make arrangements home 

What’s Included

Transport expand_less

  • All your rail travel between cities
  • Seat reservations

Extras expand_less

  • 24hr Emergency Support
  • E-Travel Pack - accessed via our unique app

Not Included expand_less

  • Meals
  • Travel Insurance
  • Trips are fully independent so there will be no tour guide
  • City Tax
  • Airport transfers at start and end destinations

About Donal

TEAM LEAD

+5 Local experts

verified Baboo Certified

Expertise: 

Culture & History

Visit markets

Nature & Wildlife

Food & Culinary

Purposeful Travel

Water & Coastline

I first interrailed back in 2008 and was hooked immediately. Since then i have visited 15 European countries and have made a career out of planning & booking European Rail Holidays for others!

Travel that Makes a Difference

By choosing to travel with us, you support local communities, wildlife, and the environment. We are dedicated to positively impacting the world through every journey we offer.

Let’s regenerate the planet together

We overcompensate your entire journey’s carbon footprint including flights - for free.

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FROM PRICE PER TRAVELER

$3,820.00 USD