To create a plan for a week between Dublin and London for Vikings, we’ll assume you’re looking to explore historical sites, cultural experiences, and activities related to Viking history and legacy in both cities and the surrounding areas. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Dublin
- Arrive in Dublin, Ireland.
- Visit the National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology to see Viking artifacts, including the famous Tara Brooch and other treasures from the Viking and Medieval periods.
- Explore Dublin’s Viking Triangle, which includes Dublin Castle, Christ Church Cathedral, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, to get a feel for the city’s Viking roots.
Day 2: Dublin
- Start the day at Wood Quay, the site of the Viking settlement of Dyflin, which later became Dublin.
- Visit the Viking Splash Tours for a fun and historical tour of the city from a Viking perspective, including a trip on the Grand Canal.
- Spend the afternoon exploring Temple Bar, an area known for its street performers, bars, and cultural venues, and grab dinner at one of the traditional Irish pubs.
Day 3: Travel to Wales (Optional Stop)
- Travel to Wales, a region with significant Viking influence, particularly in coastal towns.
- Visit Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which, while not directly Viking, showcases medieval power and influence that followed Viking rule.
- Explore the Menai Strait and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
Day 4: Travel to Chester, England
- Travel to Chester, England, a city with a rich Roman and Viking history.
- Explore the Grosvenor Museum to learn about Chester’s history, including its Viking era.
- Walk along the Roman Walls and visit the Chester Castle.
Day 5: York, England
- Travel to York, one of the most significant Viking cities in England, known as Jorvik during the Viking era.
- Visit the Jorvik Viking Centre for a deep dive into Viking-age York, including a ride through a reconstruction of the Viking city.
- Explore The Coppergate Shopping Centre, built on the site of the Viking settlement, and visit York Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe.
Day 6: London
- Travel to London.
- Visit the British Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Viking artifacts, including the Lewis Chessmen and the Sutton Hoo helmet.
- Explore the Museum of London Docklands to learn about London’s history as a trading port, including its connections with the Viking world.
Day 7: London
- Spend the day exploring London’s Scandinavian connections, such as the Norwegian Church in Rotherhithe or the Swedish Church in Marylebone.
- Visit The V&A Museum, which occasionally hosts exhibitions related to Viking art and culture.
This itinerary is packed with historical insights into the Viking era and offers a blend of city life, cultural experiences, and historical exploration. Remember to check the opening times and any specific events or exhibitions that might be happening during your visit to make the most of your time.
