Dingle guide Archives - Anriasc Bed & Breakfast and Farmhouse

Planning a trip to Ireland and wondering what to do in Dingle in 3 days ? Whether you’re coming for a weekend escape or beginning a longer Irish adventure, this guide is crafted by locals to help you make the most of your time. From coastal drives to traditional pubs and sacred sites, here’s everything you need to see, taste, and experience in and around Dingle Town and Ballydavid.

🌌 Day 1: Arrival & Discovering Dingle Town

Explore Dingle’s colourful town centre, meet local artists, and enjoy seafood and traditional Irish music.

Morning: Welcome to the Dingle Peninsula

Start your Irish adventure by arriving via Tralee or Killarney, two scenic routes that offer beautiful views of County Kerry’s hills and coastline. As you descend into Dingle town, you’ll feel the landscape shift: stone walls, sheep-dotted fields, and the smell of sea air.

Begin your day slowly with a coffee at the locally loved Bean in Dingle, followed by a walk along the Dingle Harbour. It’s the perfect way to stretch your legs after the journey and take in the fishing boats, seagulls, and calm waters.

Afternoon: Shops, Galleries & Irish Crafts

Looking for authentic souvenirs from Dingle? Spend the afternoon exploring Dingle’s colourful streets and artisan boutiques, where every piece tells a story.

Recommended stops:

🧊 Dingle Crystal – Hand-cut crystal crafted by master artisan Sean Daly, known for Celtic-inspired engravings.
🧶 Fiadh Handwoven Design – Beautiful, sustainable fashion pieces made with traditional techniques.
🖼️ Greenlane Gallery – Showcasing local artists and photographers who capture the wild spirit of the peninsula.
🥃 Dingle Distillery – Book a guided whiskey tour with tasting (pre-booking recommended).
🐠 Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium – A great indoor option, especially for families or rainy days.

Tip: Tip: These shops support local craftspeople and are perfect if you’re looking for unique gifts Déanta in Éirinn (Made in Ireland).

Evening: Where to Eat & Hear Live Music in Dingle

After a full afternoon of walking and browsing, treat yourself to some of the best seafood in Dingle. We recommend:

🍽️ Out of the Blue – A no-frills, ultra-fresh seafood-only restaurant (menu changes daily).
🐟 The Fish Box – Family-run and beloved by locals, with great portions and casual atmosphere.

Round off the evening with a traditional Irish music session (often free!) at:

🎻 O’Sullivan’s Courthouse Pub – Known for its high-quality sessions and community vibe.
🎶 An Droichead Beag – A lively venue with both locals and visitors joining in the music and fun.

Where to stay near Dingle? An Riasc B&B and Farmhouse in Ballydavid offers peaceful nights, local tips, and taxi service.

🗻 Day 2: Slea Head Drive & Sacred West Kerry

Take in the wild Atlantic coast, explore ancient ruins, and end your day with sunset and seafood in Ballydavid.

Morning: Drive the Slea Head Loop

If you’re wondering what to do around Dingle with a car, Slea Head Drive is an absolute must. It’s one of Ireland’s most scenic routes, with rugged cliffs, turquoise coves, and archaeological gems around every bend.

To do it right, rent a car because public transport won’t take you to these remote treasures.

Top stops on the loop:

🛡️ Dunbeg Fort – Iron Age stone fortress perched above the Atlantic.
🛖 Beehive Huts (clocháns) – Ancient dry-stone huts used by early monks and farmers.
🏖️ Coumeenole Beach – Wild, dramatic, and famously featured in Ryan’s Daughter.
📸 Dunquin Pier – Possibly Ireland’s most photographed pier, curving steeply into the sea.
🏝️ Blasket Centre – Discover the history, language, and legacy of the Blasket Islanders through exhibits and films.

Tip: Start early to avoid tour buses and enjoy softer light for photography.

Midday: Lunch with an Ocean View

Refuel at a local café with spectacular views:

☕ Caifé na Trá – Friendly staff, generous portions, and local seafood specials.
🍰 Blasket Centre Café – Great for soup, sandwiches, and a second look at the cliffs below.

Most places offer indoor and outdoor seating depending on the weather.

Afternoon: Ancient Sites in West Kerry

After the drive, explore West Kerry’s spiritual side, just inland from Ballyferriter.

Unmissable sacred sites:

🧱 Gallarus Oratory – An early Christian chapel shaped like an upturned boat, perfectly intact after centuries.
🪨 Kilmalkedar Church – A medieval ruin with ogham stones, sundials, and a sense of quiet reverence.
✝️ Reask Monastic Site – Simple, open, and mystical. Often overlooked, but deeply atmospheric.

All three usually peaceful, and great for slow, mindful exploration.

Staying at An Riasc? You can walk through nearby fields at sunset and return for dinner at local pubs.

Evening: Dinner & Sunset in Ballydavid

Return to the Ballydavid area, where An Riasc B&B and Farmhouse is nestled between the hills and the sea.

Where to eat and unwind:

🍽️ Tigh T.P. – A seaside pub with fresh fish and local musicians playing inside or on the terrace.
🍷 An Bóthar Pub – A local gem with great Guinness, friendly staff, and regular music nights. A relaxed spot for a real West Kerry experience.
🍻 Murphy’s Pub – Cosy, friendly, and just a few minutes’ walk from An Riasc.
🌇 Ballydavid Pier – One of the best local spots to watch the sunset melt into the Atlantic. Bring a jumper — even in summer!

Staying at An Riasc B&B and Farmhouse ? Ask your hosts for walking routes to the pier or shortcuts through the fields. It’s part of the magic.

🌽 Day 3: Nature, Art, and Departure

Walk the wild beaches of Brandon Bay, shop for local crafts, and enjoy one last taste of Dingle before heading home.

Morning: Mount Brandon & Brandon Bay

If you’re looking for a peaceful way to start your final day in Dingle, head north from Ballydavid to Brandon Bay, one of the longest beaches in Ireland.

🐚 Brandon Bay – Ideal for a gentle morning walk, beachcombing, or simply listening to the waves. Popular with surfers and peaceful even in summer.
🏞️ Mount Brandon – For more adventurous travellers, hike part of this sacred mountain. The trail offers panoramic views over the peninsula and holds spiritual significance in Celtic and Christian tradition.

Staying at An Riasc? You won’t need to worry about lunch. Your hosts can prepare a homemade picnic so you can make the most of your morning exploring Mount Brandon without having to stop.

Midday: Shop for Irish-Made Gifts

Before leaving the Dingle Peninsula, take time to support local artisans and bring home meaningful keepsakes:

📚 The Dingle Bookshop – A charming independent store with Irish authors, travel guides, and children’s books.
💍 Brian de Staic Jewellery – World-renowned for handcrafted Celtic pieces and ogham engravings (Ireland’s ancient alphabet).
👜 Holden Leather Goods – A hidden gem located in Baile an Fheirtéaraigh, offering luxurious handmade bags, belts, and wallets.

All of these shops make perfect stops for thoughtful souvenirs that go beyond the typical tourist trinkets.

🍦 Farewell Flavours & Final Views

Wrap up your Dingle journey with two local rituals:

🍨 Murphy’s Ice Cream – Don’t miss this famous shop’s inventive Irish flavours like sea salt, brown bread, or Dingle gin. Made with local milk and no artificial ingredients.
🌊 Benners Quay – Take one last stroll by the harbour, soaking in the salty air and colourful boats before heading back inland.

Leaving Dingle isn’t easy, but you’ll carry the taste, the music, and the stillness of West Kerry with you.

FAQ - Planning a Stay in Dingle

Where to stay near Dingle with sea views?
An Riasc B&B and Farmhouse in Ballydavid offers traditional Irish hospitality, ocean breezes, and easy access to all major sights.

How many days do you need in Dingle?
Three days is perfect for seeing Dingle Town, driving Slea Head, hiking, and enjoying local music.

Do I need a car in Dingle?
Yes, for maximum freedom. Bus 275 from Tralee reaches Dingle town, but a car lets you explore sacred sites and hidden beaches.

What is the best time of year to visit Dingle?
Spring and early autumn are ideal: fewer crowds, mild weather, and active cultural events.