Disclosure: This blog is reader-supported, and some posts contain affiliate links. If you make a booking, I may earn a small commission-at no extra cost to you. Thank you for keeping me writing and doing what I love!
If you’re planning a trip to Europe, a 10 day Ireland, Scotland, England itinerary is an unforgettable way to experience it all. For travelers visiting from the United States, there’s comfort in knowing English is spoken throughout, making it feel adventurous without being overwhelming.
We took this exact trip in 2022 with my parents, and it was the perfect mix of history, charm, and iconic sights. I’m so excited to share this itinerary with you.
For this trip, you’ll base yourself in three incredible cities: Dublin, Edinburgh, and London. Each city offers endless day trips and major highlights within easy reach — meaning you won’t waste time hauling luggage from place to place.
Overview: How to Spend 10 Days in Ireland, Scotland & England
Rather than constantly changing hotels, you’ll base yourself in three major cities:
- 2 days in Dublin
- 3 days in Edinburgh
- 5 days in London
This itinerary balances:
- Irish countryside and castles
- Scottish history and dramatic views
- Iconic London landmarks and day trips
It’s ambitious, but doable.
Days 1-2: Dublin, Ireland
If you’re creating a Dublin Edinburgh London itinerary, Dublin is the perfect place to begin. Compact, walkable, and lively, it gives you a warm introduction to Ireland.
If you can add extra time in Ireland someday, do it. But for this itinerary, here’s how to make the most of two unforgettable days.
Where to stay in Dublin:
- Hostel: Latroupe Jacobs Inn – A hostel is a great option for solo or young travelers.
- Mid-range: Mercantile Hotel – An excellent location and 24-hour front desk.
- Splurge: The Morrison Dublin – A Hilton Honors location
Day 1: Temple Bar, Guinness, and Oldest Pub in Dublin
Arrive in Dublin and start exploring right away.
Begin at Temple Bar, Dublin’s most colorful and lively neighborhood. Yes, it’s touristy — but for a first visit, it’s worth it. The cobblestone streets, street performers, and live Irish music create the perfect introduction.
From there, walk to Trinity College Dublin, Ireland’s oldest university. If time allows, book entry to see the Book of Kells and stroll through the Long Room Library – it feels straight out of a movie. If you don’t want to go into the library, go on a walking tour instead.
Continue down Grafton Street, where buskers perform throughout the day and luxury shops mix with charming Irish boutiques.
Head to the iconic Guinness Storehouse. The self-guided tour walks you through the brewing process, the history of Guinness advertising, and ends at the Gravity Bar with panoramic views over Dublin.
For a deeper understanding of Ireland’s history, tour Kilmainham Gaol. It’s one of the most important historical sites in Dublin (book early).
End your day at The Brazen Head, Ireland’s oldest pub dating back to 1198. Stepping inside feels like traveling back in time. We took a carriage ride from Guinness to The Brazen Head which was so charming and fun!
Alternative dinner spots:
- The Church (set inside a converted cathedral)
- Fade Street Social for something more modern
Finish with a relaxed walk along the River Liffey as the city lights reflect on the water. If you like something more thrilling, take a Ghost Tour.
Day 1 Highlights:
- Temple Bar atmosphere
- Trinity College & the Long Room
- Guinness Gravity Bar views
- The Brazen Head
Day 2: Day Trip to Blarney & Cork
Today, you’ll be leaving Dublin for a full day of adventure.
Rather than renting a car and driving on the opposite side of the road, we booked a guided excursion through GetYourGuide and I highly recommend it for ease and safety. We loved this so much I have a gave this day a separate blog post if you want to read all the details!
Here’s an overview of what to expect:
- There will be a meet up point in Dublin to board the bus
- There are three different spots: Rock of Cashel, Cork, and Blarney
- Rock of Cashel is a spectacular collection of medieval ruins associated with St. Patrick
- Cork is the second-largest city in the Republic of Ireland and is known as vibrant hub for food.
- Blarney and Blarney Castle is the final stop!
Days 3-5: Edinburgh, Scotland
No Ireland Scotland England itinerary would be complete without Edinburgh. Dramatic architecture, castle views, and rich royal history make it one of the most beautiful cities in the UK.
Edinburgh will always be a special city for me because it’s where my now husband proposed to me with the Edinburgh Castle in the background!
Before this dreamy proposal, I visited Edinburgh solo in 2016. This was my first solo trip when I was living in Germany. I believe the safety I felt in Edinburgh grew my courage to backpack Europe solo. I was thrilled to bring my parents here on our trip, and now it’s a city that’s forever made its mark on my life.
Where to stay in Edinburgh:
- Hostel: CoDE Pod – I personally loved a hostel when I was backpacking. It’s a great way to save money and make friends.
- Budget: ibis Edinburgh Centre South Bridge – I stayed at an apartment near here on my last visit to Edinburgh and we really enjoyed this area of the city.
- Mid-range: The Scotsman Hotel – a 4-star hotel overlooking the Castle. This was once The Scotsman newspaper and each room is unique.
- Splurge: Old Town Chambers, Autograph Collection – Conveniently located on the Royal Mile, and each apartment features a full kitchen and some even have balconies.
Day 3: Travel to Edinburgh
Today, you’ll be traveling from Dublin to Edinburgh via plane. It’s up to you on the time you’d like this flight – the flight time is just over an hour. We opted to have more time in Edinburgh, so we took a morning flight but it’s completely up to you!
Once you arrive, drop bags at your hotel or store them at Waverley Station. The cost of storing your bags can vary depending on the length of storage and how many bags.
Head to the Vennel Viewpoint for one of the best castle views in the city (and also happens to be where my husband proposed).
Explore the Grassmarket area: colorful storefronts, cozy pubs, and beautiful castle views. Then wander along Victoria Street, said to be one of the inspirations behind Diagon Alley in Harry Potter. Its curved, colorful buildings are iconic.
Stop for coffee at Cairngorm Coffee and browse local shops.
For sunset, hike up Arthur’s Seat if you’re up for it. The panoramic views over the city are breathtaking. If you prefer something easier, walk up Calton Hill for a shorter climb with equally beautiful views. There’s nothing quite like seeing the sun set in this charming city.
Day 3 Highlights:
- Castle views from The Vennel
- Victoria Street charm
- Sunset hike
Day 4: Museums & Tours
The first full day in Edinburgh is full of seeing the city and learning more about Edinburgh’s not so kept secrets.
Walk the Royal Mile in the morning before crowds build. The Royal Mile is a series of streets forming the main are of the Old Town.
On the Royal Mile, visit:
- Museum of Edinburgh
- The National Museum of Scotland (free and fantastic)
- Lunch at a traditional Scottish pub.
Afterwards head to Dean Village, a peaceful riverside neighborhood that feels like a fairytale. It’s a beautiful contrast to the busier Old Town.
End the evening with an underground vaults ghost tour. Did you know Edinburgh is known as one of the most haunted cities in Europe?
Book an underground vaults ghost tour at night. Walking beneath the city’s streets while hearing centuries-old stories is both eerie and fascinating. If going in the vaults isn’t your thing, take a walking ghost tour through the city instead.
Day 4: Highlights
- Museum of Edinburgh
- Dean Village
- Ghost Tour through the vaults
Day 5: Castles & Royal History
Start early at Edinburgh Castle. Plan at least 2 hours to explore the grounds, Crown Jewels, and sweeping views. Book your tickets in advance!
From Edinburgh Castle, walk the Royal Mile all the way down to Palace of Holyroodhouse, the King’s official residence in Scotland.
Optional additions:
- Explore Stockbridge for boutique shopping
- Scotch whisky tasting experience
- Afternoon tea at The Balmoral
- If it’s raining, duck into a cozy pub
Day 5 Highlights:
- Palace of Holyroodhouse
- Edinburgh Castle
- Royal Mile walk
Days 6-10: London, England
London, England is a popular city. and for good reason. I’ve been to London over a handful of times and still feel drawn to more trips here. If you’re visiting for four days, this is the best way to spend those days, I am sure of it. If more time would allow, 6 days in London is the best amount of time.
Activities to book ahead for London:
- Reservation at Sketch
- Tickets to the Harry Potter Studio Tour
- Tower of London tickets
- Windsor castle tickets
- Tickets or a show in the West End
Optional Activities to book ahead for London:
Where to Stay in London:
- Hostel in Shoreditch: St. Christopher’s Inn Liverpool Street – A hostel is an opportunity to meet like minded people. This is one of the best spots in London for nightlife as well!
- Budget in City of London: Locke at Broken Wharf – This area is hard to stay within budget, but this a great price with access to a kitchen.
- Budget in Shoreditch: The Shoreditch Inn – A little over $100 a night and it still has air conditioning.
- Mid-Range in Kensington: The Other House – Truthfully, this is one of the better hotels I’ve stayed in for my travels in Europe. Kitty corner from a Gail’s bakery, walking distance to the Parent Trap house, and the bar in the hotel. There were so many places accessible to this hotel that made the stay well worth it.
- Splurge in Kensington: The Adria – Stunning is an understatement for this hotel. Perfectly situated between two tube stations and Harrods is less than 20 minutes away. This would be a dream London splurge stay in my favorite part of London.
If you’re looking for more options, read my complete guide on where to stay in London.
Day 6: Exploring Kensington, Westminster
Take the morning train from Edinburgh to London (about 4.5 hours). After checking into your hotel — I love staying in Kensington for its quieter, residential feel — head out for a classic London walking day.
Start at Kensington Palace and stroll through Hyde Park, then make your way toward Westminster.
Highlights:
- Buckingham Palace
- Westminster Abbey
- Big Ben
- Houses of Parliament
- London Eye
- Thames River walk
This is the “iconic London” day — wear comfortable shoes.
Day 7: Tower of London, Old London, and London’s Oldest Wine. Bar
Begin at Leadenhall Market before heading to the Tower of London. Arrive early to see the Crown Jewels and join a Beefeater tour.
Afterward:
- Walk across Tower Bridge.
- Lunch at Borough Market – food tour anyone?
- Optional stop at Shakespeare’s Globe for a one hour tour.
In the afternoon, take the Tube to Sketch for afternoon tea. This was an incredible experience where entertainment cycled through our experience from musicians to dancers.
Day 8: Harry Potter Studio Tour, Afternoon Tea, and Knotting Hill
Today is a day that feels straight out of a movie — literally.
Spend the morning at the Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Plan for several hours – there’s more to see than you expect.
Back in London, explore Notting Hill:
- Portobello Road
- Colorful townhouses
- Holland Park
- Dinner or drinks at The Churchill Arms
This is a slower, neighborhood-focused evening.
Day 9: Windsor & West End
Start your day with breakfast at Gail’s Bakery! I know they’re a chain in London, but the consistency and quality of each location is great. Once you’re fueled with baked goods and coffee, it’s time to head to Windsor!
What to know about visiting Windsor from London:
- Windsor is located west of London and can be reached by train in one hour.
- Round trip tickets to Windsor from London can be bought for as little as $10 USD.
- When booking your train tickets on Trainline, you can book round trip tickets with an open return ticket (More details on this below).
- Train tickets can be booked as late as the day before.
- However, if you plan on visiting Windsor Castle, book your tickets in advance.
What’s an open return ticket?
An open return ticket means you don’t have a scheduled return time and can be more flexible when you leave. This means if your tour, dinner, or excursion runs longer than planned, you can always catch a later train! Open return tickets can relieve any feelings of rushing.
Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is the oldest inhabited castle in the world. There are different Windsor tickets to consider:
- Windsor Castle admission only – This is the tickets I had.
- Windsor Castle with transportation from London included
- Full day trip to Windsor Castle AND Stonehenge – This is a steal.
After visiting Windsor Castle, it’s time to head back to London to catch a show in the West End.
The West End in London is comparable to Broadway in New York City. It is full of talent and energy. Not only are the shows incredible, but even the theaters have their own beauty and story.
West End Shows I’d recommend:
- The Lion King tickets at Lyceum Theatre
- Mamma Mia tickets – I loved the movie but the play is even better!
- Wicked tickets at the Apollo Victoria Theatre
Tips on catching a show in the West End:
- Sometimes the tickets can be cheaper the closer to the show date but you run the risk of not getting tickets.
- Within the West End there’s an area called Covent Garden. Covent Garden is one of my favorite places to grab drinks.
Places to stop in and near Covent Garden:
- Gordon’s Wine Bar – Gordon’s Wine Bar is the oldest wine bar in London. Stepping inside is like stepping into Old London where it feels as though we still travel by horse and carriage.
- Mr Fogg’s Tavern
- Din Tai Fung in Covent Garden
Day 10: Headed home
Believe it or not, the trip is already on it’s final day. Swing by your favorite breakfast spot before making your way to the airport. If you’re heading to London Heathrow Airport, there’s a Heathrow Express train from London Paddington Station.
Travel Tips for Visiting the UK & Ireland
Before you hop on that flight to Europe, there are a few important things that will make this trip smoother, less stressful, and way more enjoyable.
- U.S. travelers do not need a visa for short tourist stays.
- Ireland uses the Euro (€).
- Scotland & England use the British Pound (£).
- Public transportation is excellent, no car required.
- Fly from Dublin to Edinburgh, then take the train Edinburgh to London.
- Tap-to-pay is everywhere but carrying a little cash is always wise.
Why This 10-Day Ireland Scotland England Itinerary Works
This route is efficient, balanced, and packed with history.
In just 10 days in the UK and Ireland, you’ll experience:
- Irish pubs and countryside
- Scottish castles and royal history
- London landmarks and theatre
It’s the perfect first-time UK and Ireland travel itinerary and one you’ll remember forever.
You’ll sip Guinness in Dublin, stand beneath castle walls in Edinburgh, and watch the sun set over the Thames in London, all in one incredible trip.
If you’ve been dreaming of a classic, storybook Europe itinerary without language barriers but with endless character… this is it.
Great Pics
Thank you 🙂