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Ireland Self Drive Tours & Road Trips

A self-drive tour throughout Ireland is the ultimate road trip. Travel off the beaten path, stop for photo breaks whenever you want and create a custom itinerary tailored to you. Whether you hire a car, a campervan or a motorcycle, these 6 tours are guaranteed to deliver a truly unique experience.

6 Self drive tours in Ireland with reviews

The Best Of Ireland

"The value was definitely there. The hotels/food was nicer than we expected for the price." Sarah, traveled in November 2023

• Christmas & New Year

Wild Atlantic Way | Ireland

"Very well organised, all accommodation booked for you. Excellent communication would use again." Martin, traveled in October 2023

• Intl. Flights Included
• Sightseeing

Ireland's Green Magic: Rugged cliffs & Fabulous castles

• Flights included
• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Ireland Road Trip: Coastal Routes & Glamping Nights

EPIC Landscapes, Cities & Castles

Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

Top operators.

"We had an excellent time. The landscape was beautiful and the sites we visited were great. Our guide Bree was terrific and her knowledge and love of Ireland made it extra special. The night in the castle was a real treat.

Overland Ireland - Small Group Tours is an expert in:

• In-depth Cultural

Anthro Tours is an expert in:

"The guide and drivers were great. I am 6’ 2” so the seats on the coach were uncomfortable - knees were pressed up against the seat in front, couldn’t move my legs while traveling. Was not ready to get up so early- 5:00 am a couple of days to meet the ferry scheduling requirements.

Trafalgar is an expert in:

Regions in Ireland

• Ireland Wild Atlantic Way (5)

Travel Styles

• Ireland Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 7 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 10 Day Ireland Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

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The Ultimate 10-Day Self-Drive Ireland Tour

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Self Drive Tours

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• 1-4 people (Get in touch for groups of 5+)

The Ultimate 10-Day Self-Driving Tour Of Ireland

If you’re looking for the ultimate self-drive trip around Ireland, you’ve found it! This tour showcases the very best that our magical Emerald Isle has to offer. We have designed an itinerary that provides the most comprehensive self-drive trip around Ireland, covering as much beautiful countryside and taking in as many sights as possible! 

With a feast of tradition, castles, culture, history, unrivaled scenery, and our world-famous great outdoors, you will feel truly spoiled. And, best of all, we make your trip hassle-free by taking care of all your experiences and bookings.

We have packed this 10-day Ireland self-drive tour with authentic Irish experiences, from kayaking in Dingle Bay with dolphins to the jaw-dropping sights along the Ring of Kerry. Make unforgettable memories at the Cliffs of Moher, in vibrant Galway City, and on the Aran Islands’ rugged shores. You even have the option to spend a night in an exquisite castle! What better way to live like a prince(ss)? For a while, at least!

And, of course, no ultimate Ireland trip is complete without kissing the Blarney Stone. Find out if you gain the gift of the gab! We also cross the border into Northern Ireland. Feel the awe of Giant’s Causeway on the Antrim coast before immersing yourself in the Titanic Experience in Belfast.

We do all the leg work in putting together this perfect Irish itinerary. All you need to do is arrive with a sense of adventure. This is the kind of captivating Ireland road trip you have always dreamed of!

Book your trip with confidence

• Itineraries designed by experts
• Overland Ireland virtual tour guide
• Support concierge service
• Fully comprehensive insurance (when you book car rental through us)

Due to our tours’ remote, off-the-beaten-path locations, and the fact that we cannot guarantee that all accommodation partners have ramps and/or elevators, unfortunately, our tours are not wheelchair accessible .

Keep reading to learn more about this unforgettable 10-day self-drive tour of Ireland, but if you’d like even more inspiration, browse our wider range of Self Drive Tours of Ireland and our more traditional Small Group Tours of Ireland .

Paddy - The Pocket Pilot

All our self-drive tours come with a guided itinerary, numerous extras, and our renowned exceptional service.

And one of the extras to help you along the way is our Paddy the Pocket Pilot App.

If you want to see Ireland on an independent adventure, but with all the benefits and surprises of a guided tour — like “tried & loved”, pre-booked accommodation — you’re in safe hands.

But don’t just take our word for it! Read our tour group reviews .

10-Day Self-Drive Ireland Tour: What is Included?

At Overland Ireland, we do everything we can to minimise costs and maximise experiences!

By including as much as we possibly can in your tour price, you avoid unexpected fees and hidden surprises.

We have worked tirelessly to ensure you benefit from the best deals across Ireland.

Please let us know if you have any special dietary requirements or preferences as soon as possible.

We can cater this self-drive tour to vegans, vegetarians, and pescatarians.

• Paddy the Pocket Pilot App As standard
• Carefully chosen accommodation in locally run guesthouses. We also have options for castle experiences and hotels
• Easy-to-follow and detailed daily itineraries
• Hearty breakfasts every morning
• Simple maps with instructions on how to find your way around the Emerald Isle
• Tour support throughout your trip We are always available should you need to talk.
• All entrance fees to national parks on your itinerary
• Daily hidden gem locations chosen by our expert guides
• Daily entertainment and food recommendations
• Newgrange or Hill of Tara
• Kylemore Abbey
• Blarney Castle
• Galway Walking Tour
• Aran Island Ferry
• Dingle Kayaking
• Sheepdog Demonstration
• Kinsale Walking Tour
• Giant's Causeway
• Titanic Experience
• Airfare to Ireland
• A driver guide See our fully-guided tours
• Motorway toll and parking fees
• Fuel for your car and your body! Lunch, dinner, and petrol are on you!
• Rock of Cashel
• Derry Walking Tour
• Shannon Ferry
• Belfast Black Cab Tour
• Aran Island bike hire
• Dún Aonghasa
• Westport Walking Tour
• Ross Castle
• Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge
• Some suggested experiences and activities We can arrange those you want to do, but you will likely pay the experience/activity provider (i.e. horse-riding, jaunting (horse-drawn carriage) directly
• The self-control to leave stunning locations!
• The determination to discover all the wonderful places on your itinerary
• Mandatory upgrade to a private room for solo travellers

Are there 5 or more people in your group?

Itinerary — Your Ultimate 10-Day Self-drive Tour of Ireland

Day 1: Dublin - Belfast

Total driving distance & time: 180 km – 2 hours 10 minutes, excluding stops

Turn on your Paddy the Pocket Pilot App and get on the road! Your ultimate self-drive tour of Ireland starts with an adventure to Newgrange, a magical Stone Age passage tomb decorated in megalithic art.

After exploring this incredible Neolithic structure, you will travel north to Belfast. Here, you can immerse yourself in the Titanic Experience at the interactive visitor centre of Titanic Belfast.

The wonderful and tragic stories told about the most famous ship in the world, and its doomed fate, is a moving experience.

Finish the day with a fantastic black cab tour of Belfast. Your cab will even pick you up from your hotel! (Optional)

The evening is yours to explore Belfast’s thriving pubs, restaurants, and shops. Get a great night’s sleep at your carefully handpicked accommodation.

Day 2: Giant’s Causeway - Derry

Total driving distance & time: 165 km – 2 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops

The second day features one of this tour’s most-anticipated stops — Giant’s Causeway.

But the entire Causeway Coastal Route is just as breathtaking and a joy to drive.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is another highlight. Feel everything from fear to exhilaration as you cross the open ocean with air beneath your feet!

The Paddy App will also guide you to some secret locations off the beaten track.

Your next stop on day two is Derry. Northern Ireland’s second-largest city is steeped in rich and fascinating history.

Enjoy exploring the city at night because you will take a tour of the walled city on day three.

We recommend treating yourself to a gourmet and craft beer experience at the Walled City Brewery.

Day 3: Derry - The Hills of Donegal

Total driving distance & time: 110 km – 1 hour 50 minutes, excluding stops

Start the day with a walking tour of Derry led by a local guide. This experience will help you understand our past struggles and the long road to peaceful times in the North.

It’s time to leave Derry and head into the wild northwest. The Hills of Donegal are waiting!

Embark on a memorable drive that takes in the Glengesh Pass and the Assaranca Waterfall.

Paddy the Pocket Pilot will direct you to Grianan of Aileach, a 5th-century stone fort, where you can take in some truly stunning views.

Head to your accommodation in the picturesque village of Ardara, County Donegal, and treat yourself to a night of seafood and “craic” (fun) with the locals.

Day 4: Donegal - Connemara

Total driving distance & time: 260 km – 4 hours, excluding stops

Today’s road trip has the double joy of passing through Sligo – William Butler Yeats’ County – and making a short trip to Westport – Ireland’s favourite town!

Your time in Westport starts with a charming walking tour of the town followed by a fabulous lunch.

This will fuel you for a delightful journey through Connemara National Park and along part of the famous Famine Trail.

You will then visit Kylemore Abbey, a stunning 1,000-acre estate overlooking Kylemore Lake. Enjoy strolling around the abbey and soaking up the beauty of the Victorian Walled Garden.

Your journey continues to Clifden where you will find great bars, restaurants, and nightly music. Don’t be afraid of striking up a conversation with the locals over a tasty pint of the Black Stuff!

If you’ve ever had dreams of becoming a Prince(ss), now’s your chance! We have added the option of staying in Abbeyglen Castle!

Day 5: The Aran Islands

Total driving distance & time: 100 km – 1 hour 40 minutes, excluding stops

The morning starts with the short drive to Rossaveal Pier overlooking Galway Bay. Feel the excitement build as you board the ferry to the Aran Islands.

When you land on rugged Inishmore, the largest of the three Aran Islands, it’s time to explore! If you’d like, you can either cycle or make a special request for a jaunting cart (horse and carriage) against an additional charge.

Your route will take you toward Dún Aonghasa, an ancient, clifftop stone fort standing 100m over the ocean.

It’s then time to circle back toward the ferry and the mainland. On your way, you may pick up a word or two in “Gaelic” from the locals. And why not treat yourself to an authentic Aran Sweater?

When you arrive back at Rossaveal, your Galway adventure begins. Hug the coastline all the way into this bustling, bohemian city.

This much-celebrated place is home to entertaining street performers, an infectious atmosphere, and plenty of craic.

You won’t need your Paddy App to find entertainment this evening! It’s Friday night every night in Galway!

Day 6: Galway - Cliffs of Moher

Total driving distance & time: 90 km – 1 hour 45 minutes, excluding stops

Medieval history is at the very heart of Galway. Discover more about this side of the city on a tour led by our local guide.

Head down the narrow streets where you can duck in and out of brightly coloured shops. This is the perfect time to try on Galway Shawls and Claddagh Rings!

Pass under the famous Spanish Arch and enjoy the ambience of Claddagh, a delightful fishing village.

Sadly, you’ll have to leave Galway, but the day has more treats in store!

Travelling southwest, it’s time to visit the otherworldly Burren National Park and the jaw-dropping Cliffs of Moher.

On this adventure, you will visit Corcomroe Abbey, a 13th-century Cistercian Monastery as well as the 16th-century Dunguaire Castle in Kinvara.

At the Cliffs of Moher, you will walk over this awe-inspiring natural feature as the powerful waves of the Atlantic Ocean crash into it below.

The cliffs are one of the most iconic sights, and most spectacular natural features, in Ireland. We’re almost certain you’ll be lost for words.

Our itinerary will also send you off the beaten path, so you can enjoy some of the area’s hidden gems.

You’ll spend the evening in Doolin – the hometown of traditional Irish music.

Day 7: Doolin - Dingle

Total driving distance & time: 240 km – 3 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops

A trip to Ireland is not complete without seeing its incredible ancient structures. Today, you drive to the most famous Dolmen (AKA portal tombs) at Poulnabrone.

Dolmen are Neolithic monuments scattered throughout the country marking burial sites and passageways dating back to 3000BC.

After being awed by the Dolmen, it’s time to make the short trip to the farmers at Caherconnell who will treat you to a spectacular sheep-dog trial.

Prepare to be mesmerised by the farmer and his furry friend as they work in tandem to gather up their flock of sheep.

It’s then time to leave the west behind as you cross the border into County Kerry by ferry. Your next destination is the celebrated harbour town of Dingle.

The evening is yours to soak up the atmosphere in Dingle’s fantastic restaurants and famous quirky pubs.

Why not sit in Foxy John’s hardware store, order yourself a drink, and strike up a conversation with a friendly local?

Day 8: The Dingle Peninsula

Total driving distance & time: 50 km – 2 hours 30 minutes, at a leisurely pace!

Your morning starts on the water exploring caves and inlets on Dingle Bay by kayak. You may even meet County Kerry’s biggest celebrity – Fungie the Dolphin.

If kayaking isn’t your thing, don’t worry. You can take a moderate-paced hike up Mount Brandon instead. This walk offers the reward of 360-degree panoramic views of Dingle Bay and Castlegregory.

Or perhaps you just want to stroll around this colourful town teeming with charming cafes and original local craft shops? Take it at your own pace. It’s your holiday – Do it your way.

In the afternoon, jump in your car and take a delightful trip along one of Ireland’s most scenic roads – The Slea Head Drive.

You spend a second night in the buzzing town of Dingle – relax and enjoy.

Day 9: The Ring of Kerry - Kinsale

Total driving distance & time: 200 km – 3 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops

After saying a fond farewell to Dingle, you will journey towards the Ring of Kerry – one of Ireland’s most famous driving routes.

The first stop takes you to Killarney, considered by many as the Ring of Kerry’s starting point.

The Ring of Kerry is the very definition of the word “scenic”. You will discover famous sights and hidden gems along the way, including Moll’s Gap, Torc Waterfall, and Ross Castle.

We will arrange a guided tour of Ross Castle for you. Here, you will learn what life was really like behind those imposing stone walls.

The beautiful heritage town of Kenmare is the perfect place to stop for lunch and some shopping.

This is your last night on tour, so we’re sending you to the coastal town of Kinsale. This picturesque place is famed for its culinary culture, delivered by many award-winning restaurants.

Kinsale also has a great tradition of poetry, silver, gold, and glassware manufacturing. You can see this in the local shops and galleries which proudly have work by talented local artists.

Day 10: Cork - Kiss the Blarney Stone

Total driving distance & time: 320 km – 3 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops

Wake up refreshed and ready for a guided walking tour through Kinsale’s narrow streets. Your tour is led by one of our favourite guides – Barry!

Paddy the Pocket Pilot will then direct you towards Blarney because you MUST NOT leave Cork without visiting Blarney Castle and Gardens.

This is the home of the Blarney Stone. If you want the gift of the gab, you need to give it a big fat kiss!

Your final stop before driving back to Dublin is the Rock of Cashel. This historically significant site is over 1000 years old!

Marvel at its medieval round tower, cathedral, chapel, and castle. This is a truly fantastic way to end your trip.

It is now time to turn off your engine and dry your tears. Sit back and soak up everything you have experienced over the last 10 days.

If you have any time left before leaving the Emerald Isle, we will give you plenty of amazing tips and recommendations for things to do, eat, and entertain you in Dublin’s fair city.

Note: To confirm your booking, you are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of €300 per person for Self-Drive tours .

Download this itinerary as a PDF

Note: This is our current itinerary for this year. If you’re booking for next year, the plan could change slightly. Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions about this or our other tours!

Related Tours

The Northern Way 7-Day Self-Drive Tour of Ireland

Wild Atlantic Wanderer 6-Day Self-Driving Tour of Ireland

+44 (0)1264 710375

— It's our 21st birthday this year! —

• 12 nights / 13 days
• 1,460 miles
• Independent
• 2 Weeks or less

This fabulous tour of Ireland includes the most scenic and interesting parts of this truly beautiful island. Stay in some of Ireland’s most charming hotels and enjoy delicious meals and the warm and friendly hospitality that is country-wide. Visit the Rock of Cashel, Youghal, Cork, Blarney Castle, the Beara Peninsula, the famed Ring of Kerry, the Dingle Peninsula, the Cliffs of Moher & the Burren, the captivating west coast region of Connemara, and, of course, the wonderful city of Dublin. Finish the tour via the Wicklow Mountains, Co Kildare and Co Wexford. The trip will be at a leisurely pace giving you plenty of time to explore and relax.

Ireland is a place to explore slowly, roaming through agricultural landscapes scattered with farmhouses, or enjoying a spirited drive across the mountain roads, or along the endlessly indented coastline. Discover traces of culture established long before Christianity, alongside the cosmopolitan energy of the towns and cities.

Tour Highlights

• Visit some of Ireland’s famous landmarks, such as the Rock of Cashel
• Drive some of the country’s best scenic drives, such as the Ring of Kerry, Beara & Dingle Peninsulas, & Wicklow Mountains
• Kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle
• Explore charming cities, such as Cork and Dublin
• See the magnificent Cliffs of Moher
• Marvel at the ‘moonscape’ of the Burren
• Visit the Irish National Stud, where some of the world’s best racehorses are bred

Take the Stena Line ferry from Fishguard to Rosslare, departing at 14.30 (check timings). The crossing takes just 3 1/2 hours. A short drive of about 75 minutes to our first hotel and stay overnight in a stunning Georgian manor. This country house hotel is also home to one of Ireland’s best chefs, so dinner is a real treat in the Michelin-starred restaurant.

Drive to Kilkenny, Ireland’s only inland city, and also one of its finest, brimming with medieval treasures. Head to the Rock of Cashel – Ireland’s most fascinating ecclesiastical site, a lofty citadel that soars above the surrounding vale. Then it’s south to Cahir with its eponymous castle and the Swiss Cottage. Drive over The Vee, a fabulous road over the hills to Lismore. From there drive alongside the River Blackwater to Youghal, on the south coast. There is an optional lunch stop at the famed hotel and cookery school at Ballymaloe. Continue to Cork and visit the renowned Blarney Castle. Stay overnight in a beautiful hotel in Cork.

A wonderful drive down to Kinsale and then along the coast to Timoleague and Clonakilty. Visit the Drombeg Stone Circle and continue to Skibbereen, Ireland’s most southerly town, and see the Heritage Centre with its exhibition commemorating the tragic Great Famine. Continue to Ballydehob and Bantry and tour the magnificent Bantry House and Museum. Drive around Bantry Bay to Glengarrif and then drive the spectacular Healy Pass and on to Kenmare. Then it’s over Moll’s Gap and Ladies View to Killarney. Stay in a beautiful five-star hotel for two nights.

Drive the stunning and famed Ring of Kerry. This is an very scenic route around the Iveragh peninsula with wonderful coastal and mountain scenery, as well as a warm Gulf Stream climate. Visit the lovely town of Kenmare, a colourful, friendly place and perfect place to while away some time. There is an optional circle to drive to Glengarriff and then over the Healy Pass and back to Kenmare. Continue down to Cahersiveen, and return over the mountains of Macgilycuddy’s Reeks. Take a tour of the splendid Muckross House. Return to the hotel in Killarney.

Head down to the Dingle Peninsula. Dingle is a lovely town to spend a while. Explore the Dingle Peninsula and the exceptionally scenic route to Slea Head. Head back over the Connor Pass and then travel north to Tralee. Drive over the mountains to Co Limerick and stay in a beautiful old coaching inn/hotel in one of Ireland’s prettiest villages, Adare.

Leave Adare and head onto Limerick, an attractive and lively city, also renowned as a cultural centre. Visit Bunratty Castle, and then drive to the sea at Miltown Malbay and then north, hugging the coastline to see the Cliffs of Moher, rising 213 metres from the sea below and stretching for five miles along the Clare coast. Further north is the Burren National Park, a vast plateau of limestone, which supports the vast majority of Ireland native flora and fauna. Stay in a beautiful manor house hotel for the next three nights, located on the coast near Letterfrack in Connemara.

Enjoy a circular drive of Connemara and Co Galway with its beautiful coastal roads. It’s a land of panoramic views, rivers, lakes, endless stone walls, myths and legends. Sparsely populated, Connemara has been by-passed by mass tourism, yet it is much-loved by poets, artists and writers. There is an optional lunch stop at the lovely Ballnahinch Castle, and a chance to stroll around the lovely small town of Clifden.

Another day to explore the north of Co Galway. The route takes you past Doo Lough, with its memorial to those who perished in the Famine, and on to Louisburgh. Then skirt along the coast to the beautiful town of Westport, with its octagonal central area and lime tree-lined central canal. Visit the wonderful Westport House, just to the west of the town. Then head back to the manor hotel.

Leave Connemara and Galway and head across the centre of Ireland. Visit the Lodge Park House, Garden & Steam Museum at Straffan on the way to Dublin. Spend the next two nights in Dublin’s finest hotel in the centre of the city on the beautiful St Stephen’s Green. Stroll along the banks of the Liffey and indulge in a pint or two of the black stuff (Guinness). Dinner is not included on either evening as there are so many wonderful places to eat in Dublin and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Spend the day exploring the delights of Dublin – magnificent architecture, excellent shopping, lively entertainment and cultural events, superb museums and galleries and a strong sense of history. There’s much to see, including the castle, National Gallery, Temple Bar and Trinity College. But no visit to Dublin would be complete with a visit to the Guinness Hop Store, birthplace of Dublin’s (and Ireland’s) most famous product.

Leave Dublin and drive south to Powerscourt House and Gardens, one of the most superb gardens in Europe. Drive through the secluded Wicklow Mountains to the Sally Gap and visit Glendalough, a monastic settlement founded in the 6th century. There is also a visit to the Irish National Stud and Japanese Gardens near Kildare. Stay overnight at a beautiful country house hotel on the edge of the Wicklow Mountains.

Enjoy a lovely day meandering over the Wicklow Mountains again to Avoca and Arklow. Head south to Wexford and visit the Irish National Heritage Park. Spend the final night at a delightful hotel on the water near Wexford.

It’s an early start to drive the 20 minutes to Rosslare to catch the ferry back to Wales at 09.00. Arrive in Fishguard at 12.30 and depart for home.

Where we'll stay

All the accommodation is in individual, unique hotels that are of a very high standard, and often five-star. Due to the nature and age of these hotels the rooms vary from charmingly comfortable to utter luxury. We have hand-picked the accommodation for their unique atmosphere and style. Suitable parking is available each night. “Thank you for all the hard work that went into planning the trip – and the lovely hotels.” C.C., East Sussex

What's included

• An extensively researched and carefully designed itinerary to optimise your trip
• Tour book – includes a brief history of Ireland, emergency details, maps and directions, accommodation information, and a very detailed account of sights and visits for each day. The book eliminates the need for any guide books

Requirements

Travel to Ireland: Return ferry crossing from Fishguard, Wales to Rosslare, Ireland can be booked with Stena Line .

• Each person must have a passport (and any necessary visas for non-EU passport holders) valid for Ireland. All passports must be valid for six months after the end of the tour.
• You will also need your vehicle registration documents, driving licence (a photo-card licence or international permit is best), and an international insurance green card.
• Please check with your travel and motor insurers that you are covered for travel in Ireland.
• You are also required to carry a warning triangle, first-aid kit, two fluorescent jackets, set of replacement bulbs and a national identification sticker.
• The most important requirement is that you take pleasure in motoring through fabulous scenery, and relish individual, character hotels.

Recommended Road Atlas

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Sidewalk Safari | Part-time Travel Blog

12 of the best ireland self-driving tours (a local's guide).

Plan a short trip to Ireland by car or plan a longer Ireland self-drive itinerary. You may even consider picking and choosing the best Ireland destinations from among my many Ireland road trip itineraries. Buckle up and let's plan a drive on the Emerald Isle!

Ireland's Best Self-Driving Tours

• Drive County Kildare
• Waterford and Wexford by car
• Dublin to Tipperary
• Carlingford Lough
• Drive the Ring of Kerry
• A Poetic and Food-Filled Trip to Sligo
• Donegal Fly and Drive Weekend
• Galway to Connemara
• Dublin to Kinsale
• County Clare and the Cliffs of Moher
• A West Cork Road Trip
• The Dingle Peninsula

Ireland Car Hire Options

Traditional car rentals.

A Luxury Eco-Friendly Self-Drive

Short ireland self-driving tours that are closer to dublin, 1. drive county kildare.

County Kildare is Dublin's closest neighbor. Plan a one day Kildare itinerary for a fun day out. Go shopping at Ireland's top outlet mall or visit the Irish National Stud farm. 

They don't call Kildare Ireland's horse country for nothing! Extend this short Irish road trip from one day to a weekend and venture into South Kildare . Here you'll find tales of Antarctic adventure in Athy which Ernest Shackleton once called home. 

Stay in the historic and posh Kilkea Castle , one of the coolest castles in Ireland . Explore the various manor homes and gardens in South Kildare and you may even come face to face with a smiling donkey! 

2. Waterford and Wexford

Whatever the season, a Waterford and Wexford road trip in Ireland's Ancient East has something special to offer. Wexford is known for having the best strawberries in Ireland so time your Waterford and Wexford road trip for the summer season. 

Dungarvan is a great home base for exploring County Waterford. If you happen to do this Ireland self-drive tour in winter instead, make sure to plan a stop at the Wexford Wildfowl Reserve to see Greenland White-Fronted Geese as they overwinter in Ireland. 

You'll find traces of beloved American President JFK all around Waterford and Wexford. The JFK Arboretum is a great place to stop and stretch your legs with a short hike. 

This Ireland road trip is easily doable in a weekend, but there is plenty to do if you'd like to take a longer or more leisurely Irish road trip in this area.

3. Dublin to Tipperary

Dublin to Tipperary is another fantastic short self-driving tour that can easily be accomplished in a weekend. Make a beeline for the bad-ass Rock of Cashel with detours to discover all the things to do in Kilkenny City and Carlow along the way.

4. Carlingford Lough

Head North from Dublin for an ideal long weekend drive that covers both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. Carlingford Lough is the dividing line between the North and South. 

Book in at Ghan House Hotel . From here it takes less than 10 minutes to walk into Carlingford Town with its spectacular colorful pubs and picturesque King John's Castle jutting out into Carlingford Lough. 

Take Carlingford Lough Ferry into Northern Ireland and enjoy views of the Cooley Mountains and Cooley Peninsula from the Mourne Coastal Drive. Discover quaint little towns in Northern Ireland like Rostrevor where echos of C.S. Lewis' Narnia can be felt everywhere. 

This Ireland road trip is ideal if you prefer a more relaxed pace and don't want to be in the car every day. Once you arrive in Carlingford Town, you could cycle to Omeath or take a long hike into the Cooley Mountains.

Short Irish Road Trips That Are Further Afield

5. drive the ring of kerry.

6. A Poetic and Food-Filled Trip to Sligo

7. Donegal Fly and Drive

8. Galway to Connemara

9. Dublin to Kinsale

10. County Clare and the Cliffs of Moher

Longer Ireland Road Trip Itineraries

11. a west cork road trip .

12. The Dingle Peninsula

Places to Stop on an Irish Road Trip

North of dublin.

En Route to the West of Ireland

Ireland's Midlands

Ireland's Northwest

Southwest Ireland

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• Best of Ireland Tour 6 Nights

By far our most popular Ireland vacation, the Best of Ireland tour allows you to appreciate Ireland’s best attractions and most scenic locations in the shortest amount of time.

• Tour Attractions

BOOK EARLY FOR A FREE UPGRADE AND 15% DISCOUNT

Book any of our wonderful self-drive vacation packages before the 15th of June 2024 to receive a FREE UPGRADE from Economy Manual Car to Compact Manual Car AND 15% discount off your tour price! This offer cannot be used in conjunction with other discounts or special event packages.

Tour Overview

Amazing asset for....

Stephanie was an amazing source of help, assistance and knowledge for our first trip to Ireland. She kept us informed of the every changing covid rules as well as adapted to our many - at least three- Read more »

Extremely Attentive Staff

Staff was extremely attentive and very flexible when it came to organizing our trip. All questions were answered quickly and in great detail. When some aspects of our selected trip had to be altered d Read more »

Stephanie at Irish Touris

Stephanie at Irish Tourism booked our trip- she was wonderful to work with. I am picky about my rooms - when we booked the trip I requested more spacious accommodations and paid accordingly. We had Read more »

By far our most popular Ireland vacation, the Best of Ireland tour allows you to appreciate Ireland’s best attractions and most scenic locations in the shortest amount of time. In your six day tour you will have the chance to navigate the ancient tombs of Newgrange or Knowth, to climb the steps of the ancient cathedral at Clonmacnoise or even take an unforgettable boat trip to one of the unspoilt Aran Islands!  Your vacation will take you from the bustling city of Dublin to Galway which is commonly referred to as the festival capital of Ireland and City of Tribes! From Galway your journey will take you to charming Kerry with its rugged coastline and soul captivating coastal views.

Before you leave you will experience the ‘Marble City’ of Kilkenny, so called because of the local black marble-like limestone that colours many of the buildings in the city. Your final night will be spent in Dublin where you can continue your sightseeing, taking in such historic places as Trinity College where the Book of Kells exhibition can be found, the fascinating Christchurch Cathedral or Kilmainham Gaol to name but a few. Of course you may find time to have a pint in the Guinness Storehouse or watch the comings and goings of the city over a coffee in Dublin’s Temple Bar area.

What's included

• Accommodation in rooms with Private Bathroom Facilities 
• Full Irish Breakfast Each Morning
• Rental Car or Chauffeur Driven Car
• 24/7 Local Telephone Support During Your Trip
• Our Renowned Customized Sightseeing Guide
• Unlimited Services of Experienced Ireland Based Travel Planner
• Map of Ireland

Tour highlights

Aran islands, christ church cathedral, dingle peninsula, gap of dunloe.

• Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms
• Ring of Kerry
• Trinity College & Book of Kells
• Aras an Uachtarain
• Kylemore Abbey
• Molly Gallivans Cottage & Farm
• National Museum of Ireland - Collins Barracks
• Valentia Island
• Hunt Museum
• Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery
• Trinity College Dublin & Book of Kells
• King Johns Castle
• W.B. Yeats Grave

Overnights for this tour

Galway for 2 Nights 

Killarney for 2 Nights

Kilkenny for 1 Night 

• Dublin for 1 Night 

Accommodation options

• Superior & First Class Hotels
• Luxury Accommodation & Service in our 4-Star
• Country Manor Houses
• Deluxe Accommodation in our 4 & 5 Star Irish Castles
• Our Recommended & Handpicked B&B's, all rooms with private bath facilities
• Any Combination of the above

Tour itinerary

Day 1 - literary dublin.

Given that Dublin was named as a UNESCO City of Literature in 2010, there can be no better place to start your literary tour of Ireland beginning with a visit to the William Butler Yeats Exhibition at the National Library. The National library has the largest collection of Yeats manuscripts in the world and in addition holds other fascinating material donated by Mrs George Yeats. You may choose to visit The Chester Beatty Library which houses a great array of manuscripts, miniature paintings, prints, drawings, rare books and decorative arts assembled by Sir Alfred Chester Beatty or The James Joyce Centre which is located in a beautifully restored Georgian house and includes an exhibition area with computer installations, videos, re-creations of period rooms, and items relating to the life and work of James Joyce. 

Near the James Joyce Centre you will find the Dublin Writers Museum where Dublin’s literary personalities are brought to life through their books, letters, portraits and personal items. Other attractions include Christchurch Cathedral which was founded in the year 1030 by Sitric, King of the Dublin Norsemen, Trinity College which houses the famous Book of Kells which is widely regarded as Ireland's finest national treasure. Transcribed by Celtic monks around the year 800, it contains the four Gospels of the New Testament in Latin, and is a spectacular example of the tradition of illuminated manuscripts.  You may decide to end your day’s touring with a trip to the Guinness Storehouse which provides an unforgettable welcome and a magical journey deep into the heart of the world famous Guinness brand and company and finishing with a pint of the famous 'Black Stuff’ in the Gravity bar!

Day 2 - Dublin to Sligo

Today you will travel from Dublin to Sligo which is long renowned for being associated with the Irish playwright William Butler Yeats. En-route you may decide to visit the ancient sites of Newgrange or Knowth or to break up your journey you might decide to stop along the way at the heritage village of Ardagh which has an interesting literary past.  In 1744 one of the most famous incidents in Ardagh’s history occurred; this was the visit of young Oliver Goldsmith who was tricked into mistaking the mansion (Ardagh House) for an inn. His endeavors to court the Fetherston daughters in the belief that they were servant girls formed the plot of his most successful play ‘She Stoops to Conquer’ , a comedy which explores the contemporary themes of sexual morality and double standards. You may wish to visit the Ardagh Visitor Centre which recounts the tale as well as the curious history of the area. You may choose to visit Strokestown Park House& Famine Museum before travelling onward to Sligo.

The Famine Museum which is located in the original Stable Yards commemorates the history of the famine through informative and interesting interactive displays. The Great Famine is now regarded as the single greatest social disaster of 19th century Europe and hence has been the subject of many books, poetry and song. In Sligo you will find the William Butler Yeat’s Memorial Building which has a photographic exhibition detailing the famous writer’s life, the churchyard at Drumcliffe where Yeats is buried and the Sligo County Museum & Art Gallery which also has Yeats’ work on display.

Day 3 - Sligo to Galway

From Sligo, travel to Galway via the Museum of Country Life in Castlebar. This award winning museum is home to the national Folklife Collection which represents traditional life in Ireland throughout the 19th and early 20th century. Here you will see for yourself the traditions, folklore and history of the real people of Ireland that would have inspired many famous Irish writers. Or take an alternative route via the Coleman Irish Music Centre where Interactive multimedia terminals will tell you about local lore, traditional music, Irish dancing, how musical instruments are made and much more. Other attractions on your route include King House a magnificent Georgian Mansion, or the village of Knock which is best known for its religious associations. On arrival in Galway, places of interest include Galway City Museum, Galway Cathedral and Nora Barnacle’s House.  Wife of James Joyces, Nora Barnacle House was the Barnacle family home from 1894-1940. It is now a small private museum, faithfully restored to its former character. Galway, the ‘City of the Tribes’ is also known as Ireland’s Cultural and festival capital. With its street entertainers and traditional pubs with great music, Galway and in particular, the Quays area of the city centre will enthrall you particularly in the evening time. Other sites in Galway include Ireland’s largest medieval parish church, the Collegiate Church of St Nicholas of Myra dating back to 1320. Christopher Columbus reputedly worshipped in this church in 1477. Also nearby are Galway Cathedral, the Spanish Arch and Eyre Square.

Day 4 - Connemara or The Aran Islands

Today you might decide to tour Connemara or take the ferry to Inis Meáin*, which is the middle of the three Aran Islands. The characteristic features of Connemara include its rugged, unpolluted coastline, dramatic mountains, numerous lakes and rivers and woodlands and the renowned Connemara National Park, Lough Corrib and Kylemore Abbey. Inis Meáin has managed to suppress the intrusion of the modern world to a large extent and remains the quietest and most traditional of the three Islands. The islanders still speak their native language but will have no problem in communicating in English. This enchanting island was frequented by the distinguished playwright John Millington Synge. It is the subject of numerous books, and proves continually to be of inspiration to visual, dramatic, literary and other artists. On the Island you will visit many sites including the historic fort of Dún Chonchúir, an impressive oval fortress measuring approximately 20ft in height, Dún Fearbhaí, the second stone fort on the island most notable for its unusual shape (almost square in shape as opposed to the normal round shape), ‘Cathaoir Synge’, the place where Synge was inspired and regularly wrote and ‘Teach Synge’, the cottage where Synge stayed while on the Island.

Day 5 - Limerick & Kerry

Day 6 - The Dingle Peninsula

Today your journey will take you to the beautiful Dingle Peninsula. This mountainous finger of land which juts into the Atlantic Ocean has supported various tribes and populations for almost 6,000 years. You might wish the visit Inch Strand which is regarded by many as one of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland. Not far from Inch you will find Minard Castle, said to have been built by the Knight of Kerry, it is the largest fortress on the peninsula and one of the locations used in the film "Ryans Daughter". On the tip of the Dingle Peninsula, stop at the Blasket Centre which celebrates the story of the Blasket Islanders, the unique literary achievements of the island writers and their native language, culture and traditions. Sadly, An Blascaod Mór was abandoned in 1953 as a result of the decline of its once vibrant population.

Day 7 - The Ring of Kerry

You have a number of touring options today. Chief amongst these is the Ring of Kerry driving tour. The Ring of Kerry is a journey through some of the country’s most outstanding scenery around the Iveragh Peninsula. Stunning mountain and coastal scenery combined with colourful towns and villages will make this one of the highlights of your tour. For those who wish to take a break from driving we can arrange a bus tour through this route. Following the peninsula drive, you then arrive at Muckross House. Muckross House is a magnificent Victorian mansion completed in 1843 for Henry Arthur Herbert. The location of the House is spectacular, close to the eastern shore of Muckross Lake and set beneath the impressive backdrop of Torc and Mangerton Mountains. As an alternative to the Ring of Kerry tour you may prefer to take a wonderful tour by pony and trap that takes you through the Black Valley in the Gap of Dunloe. After a snack at Lord Brandon’s Cottage, you will return to Killarney by boat via the beautiful Lakes of Killarney

Day 8 - Return to Dublin

Today you will travel back to Dublin, your Irish Tourism detailed itinerary will help you decide which route to take. On arrival you may decide to continue your sightseeing in Dublin visiting the many historical and modern attractions that this cosmopolitan city has to offer. Of course, you may wish to take time out to shop in Grafton Street or any one of a number of narrow and quaint streets that the café strewn city centre has to offer or spend some time in the Temple Bar area. This small area boasts a dazzling choice of restaurants, cafes, bars and shops to suit all tastes and pockets, all within easy walking distance of Temple Bar's many cultural centres and galleries. Its narrow cobbled streets are pedestrianised and are ideally suited to a leisurely stroll through the quarter.  This evening we recommend that you partake in a Literary Pub Crawl of Dublin (which we can arrange for you in advance) where you will tour Dublin's historic pubs in the company of two actors who introduce writers such as James Joyce, Samuel Beckett, Brendan Behan and Oscar Wilde and perform fascinating scenes from their works along the way.

Tour attractions

The Aran Islands are a group of three islands located at the mouth of Galway Bay, on the west coast of Ireland. The largest island is Inishmore the middle and second-largest is I...

Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin is the elder of the city's two mediæval cathedrals, the other being St. Patrick's Cathedral. It is officially claimed as the seat of both the Ch...

The Conor Pass is the highest mountain pass in Ireland. It is situated on the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry, on the road that crosses the peninsula between Dingle Town and the...

There are so many things to see, to do, to explore, to experience on the Dingle Peninsula . . . from almost 2,000 archaeological sites, to more walking than you could fit into a ...

Dublin is both the largest city and capital of Ireland. It is located near the midpoint of Ireland's east coast, at the mouth of the River Liffey and at the centre of the Dublin ...

Dublin Castle

Dublin Castle fulfilled number of roles through history Originally built as a defensive fortification for Norman city it later evolved into a royal residence. Dublin Castle was f...

Dublinia Museum in Ireland is a heritage center located in the heart of the medieval city of Dublin, Irelands capital city. There are three exciting exhibitions in Dublinia and a...

Dún Aengus is the most famous of several prehistoric forts on the Aran Islands, of Co. Galway. It was built during the Bronze Age and dates from 1,000 B.C. It is located on Inis...

The Gap of Dunloe is a beautiful glacial valley in the Macgillacuddy Reeks mountain range, which dominate the skyline of Killarney on the Ring of Kerry. Here you can enjoy an ene...

Guinness Storehouse

Guinness Storehouse has attracted over 4 million visitors from all over the world, The Storehouse is laid out over seven floors surrounding a glass atrium taking the shape of a p...

Tour Prices

Below, you will find a price for this self drive tour including your car rental and a price without car rental included. While we offer very competitive rates for our car rental inclusive packages, this allows you to shop around for your own car rental price should you wish to. Pricing for other accommodation and transport options is also available upon request. Please also note that all of our driving tours itineraries and sightseeing guides are available to those wishing to avail of one of our experienced driver guides.

ACCOMMODATION WITH CAR PRICING

• Please note prices are per person based on 2 persons in each room with full Irish breakfast and taxes included.
• The Combination package includes 2 Nights in 3*** Hotels, 2 nights in Luxury Manor House Hotels & 2 Nights in our hand-picked B&B's.
• Children Sharing with 2 adults (aged 2-11) pay 40% of the Adult option.
• Children under the age of 2 are free when sharing with 2 Adults.
• Your Accommodation & Car Rental Package rate includes an Economy class car eg., Opel Corsa or Fiat Punto.
• Included with your car is all compulsory insurances - Collision Damage Waiver insurance (CDW with an excess/deductible), theft protection insurance, location fee of €30, Road fund tax, sales tax at 13.5%, unlimited free mileage, third party liability insurance, 24 hour peace of mind break down cover.

Private Chauffeur Option Available For This Tour

• Enjoy the services of an experienced and friendly driver guide
• Luxury vehicles so you get to travel in style and comfort
• Take the stress out of driving on unfamiliar and sometime narrow roads
• With our knowledgeable drivers you see more in less time
• You get to see the scenery instead of worrying about crashing into it!
• Contact Us for a price quotation today

Prices in other currencies are indicative only. Please note that we charge in Euro.

Detailed Enquiry Form

Please enter your vacation requirements in the form below. If your enquiry requires a more immediate response, please use the Tollfree & International numbers as listed down the page.

For customers based in North America, please note that as we are based in Ireland, we are 5 hours ahead of EST.

Detailed enquiry form

Party details, preferred accommodation.

Accommodation Types (you can select more than one option)

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Other tours you might be interested in.

Irish Romance 7 Night Tour

7 Night Best of Ireland by Rail

Scenic South West Ireland Tour (7 Night)

7 Night Irish Castles and Manors Gold Tour

Irish Pub and Folk Tour (6 Night)

Scenic South West Ireland Tour (6 Night)

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Self Drive Tours in Ireland

Experience the Emerald Isle's natural beauty and history at your own pace on one of our self-drive tours of Ireland. Your package includes car rental, accommodation, hand-marked map, 24/7 tour helpline and much more.

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About Your Irish Driving Tour

Explore Ireland’s stunning landscapes, taking your time to visit the highlights you want to see, from the majestic cliffs overlooking the Atlantic to the historic sites such as Newgrange. With one of our self-drive tours, you’ll discover Ireland on your own terms and make memories of a lifetime!

When you book a driving tour of Ireland with Nordic Visitor, you can expect:

• A dedicated travel consultant who’ll arrange your adventure • A welcome bag including detailed personal itinerary & hand-marked map • Car rental with unlimited mileage and CDW insurance • Excellent accommodation at your chosen price point • 24/7 phone support during your travels for peace of mind

To start your adventure with Nordic Visitor, simply follow these steps:

1. Pick your favourite Nordic Visitor package 2. Confirm (or customise) your package 3. Check your confirmation email 4. Book your flights 5. Get ready for your trip

Why choose Nordic Visitor

Book With Confidence

Secure your trip your way with Nordic Visitor. Book a tour with as little as 10% deposit. With a 20% deposit or more, you will receive our Cancellation Protection free of charge. You can also pay the full price right away to guarantee today’s exchange rate. Terms & conditions apply.

Trusted travel experts

Nordic Visitor has been creating unforgettable travel experiences in Northern Europe since 2002. Our consultants test all our packages, so every drive and hotel has been carefully chosen. Our in-depth knowledge of all aspects of your trip to Ireland means you’ll take home unforgettable memories.

Great reviews

Our dedicated teams deliver excellent service quality, and this is reflected year after year when TripAdvisor awards us with their Certificate of Excellence. We also take great pride in our customer feedback: 97% of our travelers say they would recommend us to friends and family.

Car insurance included

Have a fun road trip with the peace of mind that the unpredictable is covered. All our Ireland self-drive tours include collision damage waiver insurance, third party liability, road fund licence and theft protection for the duration of the vehicle rental period. You can also enjoy unlimited mileage, and a reliable vehicle from a tried-and-tested rental company.

Stress-free experience

We book all aspects of your dream vacation in Ireland before you arrive, from your accommodation to the car rental. You can relax knowing that our team has everything in hand. You’ll also receive a personalised itinerary and hand-marked map, highlighting the best attractions for every day of your tour.

Customisable tour options

Nordic Visitor created all Ireland self-drive packages to give guests the adventure of their dreams. But we understand that you have a unique travel wish list. Our travel experts can tailor tours to suit your needs, whether you would like to spend extra time in a location or visit a special attraction.

You are in good hands

One of our travel experts is always on call 24/7 to handle any unforeseen situations during your trip. Unexpected event or weather issues? No problem. Reach us on our dedicated helpline and we’ll rework your itinerary. We’ll move your accommodation and re-book activities, while keeping you safe and informed.

Full financial protection

With Nordic Visitor, you have peace of mind knowing your holiday arrangements with us are 100% financially protected. Your payments are safeguarded as we comply with European Union laws on Package Travel regulations. This guarantees you a refund in the unlikely event that the company experiences insolvency.

Reviews Of Self Drive In Ireland

Take a look at the testimonials from our Ireland self-drive customers.

David United States

The tour was very well-organised and structured to maximise the time on the road and the sites worth seeing along the... read more

The tour was very well-organised and structured to maximise the time on the road and the sites worth seeing along the way. The self-driving allowed me to spend time as I saw fit. Ireland is truly a beautiful country with friendly people. 

Angelina Australia

Excellent outline of an itinerary for us to then choose what we wanted to do most, without feeling that we need to... read more

Excellent outline of an itinerary for us to then choose what we wanted to do most, without feeling that we need to try to fit everything in. Very happy with all our hotels.

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Your Road Trip Highlights

Take the wheel and set off to the stunning Irish countryside. As you drive along the winding scenic roads, take in the sweeping views. Soon you could…

• Take in the beauty of the renowned Cliffs of Moher and the wild Atlantic below
• Fall in love with the historic and vibrant capital Dublin and see the ancient Book of Kells
• Drive along Ireland’s most iconic route, the Ring of Kerry , to uncover the hidden gems of the west coast
• Discover the geological wonders of the Giant’s Causeway with its unique volcanic basalt columns
• Explore the magic of the lunar-like area of The Burren
• Immerse yourself in history at ancient medieval sites such as Bunratty Castle and The Rock of Cashel
• Take in the rugged beauty of Slea Head and the Dingle Peninsula
• Kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle and receive the gift of gab
• Taste the flavour of the country by visiting a traditional Irish pub, the Guinness Storehouse and Kilbeggan Whiskey Distillery

Advice for Self-Drive Tours

Get ready for your Irish adventure by reading over our travel guide, including handy tips and attractions guide.

Driving in Ireland

Read the rules of the road before you start your adventure

Money & Currency

Find out more about Ireland's currency & means of payment

Weather & Climate

What kind of temperatures can you expect in Ireland?

What to Pack

Bring the right clothing and gear for all seasons and activities

Frequently Asked Questions About Ireland Driving Tours

In case you have a few questions before booking your Ireland driving vacation, we’ve collected and answered the most important ones for your peace of mind. You can also find more detailed answers and travel tips in our Ireland Travel Guide . Or, if you want to know more about our processes and payment details, check out our FAQ page .

1. What side of the road do drivers use in Ireland?

In Ireland (and Northern Ireland), you should drive on the left-hand side of the road. This means that you’ll be using a right-hand drive car, and changing gears on your left side. If it’s your first time driving on the left, we recommend you consider renting an automatic car for ease of use.

2. Can I choose my arrival date?

Yes, you can. Our Ireland self-drive tours can start on any day between April and October. When you’ve picked your favourite package and you’re ready to book, simply pick a date in the calendar that suits you best. Your personal travel consultant will then get in touch to confirm your details.

3. Can I customise my self-drive tour?

When creating our packages, we aim to show our guests the very best of Ireland. But we understand everyone is different. Should there be anything in particular you’re keen to see, or if you want to stay longer to explore more of Ireland, simply get in touch so we can help arrange it all for you.

4. When should I book my flights?

We recommend that you do not book flights until we have confirmed your package. Once you book your tour with us, your personal travel consultant will contact you within two working days with more details about your arrangements. You can then book your flights with the confirmed start date of your tour.

5. Is it safe to drive in Ireland?

Yes. The roads in Ireland are accessible and in good condition. Driving around Ireland is also a great way to discover the country! Go at your own pace and stop when you want to take it all in! But make sure to follow the road rules to stay safe. Read our driving guide for more information.

6. Can I drive in Ireland with an overseas licence?

Yes. However, if you are from outside the European Union, you can only use your home driving licence if it is in English (for example if you are from the USA or Australia). If your licence isn’t in English, you’ll have to obtain an international driving permit.

7. What is the Ring of Kerry?

The Ring of Kerry is a scenic drive and tourist trail around the Iveragh Peninsula in the southwest of Ireland. It is also part of the famous Wild Atlantic Way route. When you want a road trip that delivers stunning Irish coastal views and historic attractions, the Ring of Kerry is for you.

8. Can I drive to Ireland from London?

Yes you can, although as Ireland is an island you’ll have to take a ferry across the Irish Sea. If you are starting or ending a driving tour of the UK and Ireland in Dublin, we're happy to organise the Irish leg of your journey.

9. Can you drive from Ireland to Scotland and England?

Technically yes. While Ireland is an island, and you can easily drive from Ireland to Northern Ireland (which is part of the UK), you will need to take a ferry to the island of Great Britain.

Not sure whether to visit Ireland or Scotland ? Take a look at these  Ireland and Scotland tours  and soon you could be experiencing both Celtic countries on one unforgettable trip.

10. Do I need extra insurance to drive in Ireland?

Our aim is to provide you with all the necessities to enjoy a worry-free trip. This is why we included collision damage waiver insurance as part of all our driving packages.

To safeguard your trip from the unexpected, we highly recommend that you purchase travel insurance.

11. What is the legal alcohol limit for driving in Ireland?

Drinking and driving laws in Ireland are strict. The legal limit is 50mg (80mg in Northern Ireland) of alcohol per 100ml of blood. It is tricky to translate this into how many drinks will put you over the limit. For that reason, we recommend taking no chances. Avoid drink-driving and save the beer or whiskey for later.

12. What should I pack for my trip?

The Irish weather can be variable, even between April and October. Regardless of the weather we recommend bringing light and waterproof layers, light gloves, a hat and a scarf. If you intend on going for coastal walks, don’t forget a pair of walking shoes (or boots). Read more in our packing guide .

13. Where is the best scenery in Ireland?

As you drive around Ireland, you’ll soon realise that there isn’t just one best place. We believe a self-drive tour will allow you to see the Emerald Isle at its best and enjoy the many scenic highlights.

The best scenery in Ireland includes:

• Ring of Kerry
• Dingle Peninsula
• Cliffs of Moher
• Aran Islands
• Slieve League Cliffs
• Giant's Causeway

You can get inspired by reading about some of our favourites places in Ireland  or browsing these classic  Ireland holidays . 

14. From where can I start my Ireland driving tour?

All our self-drive Ireland packages currently start from the capital city, Dublin. If you plan on flying into another airport (such as Cork or Shannon), please get in touch with our team. We could arrange a private transfer to Dublin for you.

15. What are the best driving tours in Ireland?

According to our consultants, here are the top 5 Irish drives, the most scenic ways to see Ireland:

• Explore the rugged Ring of Kerry
• Adventure yourself along the Wild Atlantic Way
• Drive the Slea Head , part of the Dingle Peninsula
• Discover County Sligo and Yeats Country
• And why not drive the coast of Northern Ireland ?

16. When is the best time to visit Ireland?

For the best weather and longer daylight hours, we recommend visiting between April and October. At this time, attractions also have longer opening hours meaning you can make the most of your tour! Read more about the best time to visit Ireland depending on your interests .

17. How long does it take to drive around Ireland?

The amount of time it takes to drive around Ireland depends on the sights and attractions you want to see. For a comprehensive tour of the island, we recommend a classic 10-day itinerary. We also offer express tours and leisure tours depending on how long you have to visit Ireland.

Get in touch if you have a question about our Ireland self drive tours, or if you want help creating a customised travel package. We’re happy to help so please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Our local phone number is +44 (0)131 344 4630

How about a live chat with one of our local travel experts?

Road trip articles

10 cool facts about ireland, 15 best castles in ireland you should visit, best ireland road trips: a local expert’s view, best time to visit ireland: your complete guide.

Whether you have a single question or a special request, we're here for you.

8 night Self Drive Packages

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• 6 Night Self Drive Packages
• 7 Night Packages
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• 14 Night Packages

Explore Ireland on an 8 night Fly Drive Ireland Package

If you are looking for the perfect Ireland Itinerary for 8 days look no further than Discovering Ireland Vacations. The Ireland travel packages outlined in our Ireland self drive vacation section are just some of the sample travel packages available, please speak to one of our expert vacation consultants to arrange your own independent vacation in Ireland and visit anywhere in Ireland at your own pace. Use prepaid vouchers for accommodation and add on activities such as golfing, fishing, cycling and hiking.

A self drive vacation of Ireland offers visitors the chance to experience Ireland’s diverse scenery, culture and leisure activities whilst navigating and exploring a variety of spectacular landscapes.

Independent self drive tours also allow you to spend as long as you wish to learning about the ancient history and folklore at some of Irelands well known heritage sites and places of interest, as well as giving you the flexibility to stay a night or two in that town or city that captures your heart as you enjoy the friendliness, humour and Irish welcome. Versatile and adaptable, an independent Ireland Self Drive Vacation make the ideal Ireland honeymoon packages , so contact our experienced Discovering Ireland Vacations specialists today to book and plan your fly drive go-as-you please tour ensuring that you get the most from a self drive vacation trip of Ireland.

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Wild Atlantic Way 8 Nights

The Wild Atlantic Way is Ireland’s iconic driving route.

The FairyTale 8 Nights

Discover some of Ireland’s best luxurious and romantic 5-star hotels and Castles on this wonderful luxury getaway in Ireland! You have the option of upgrading your accommodation should you require it.

Irish Pubs & Folklore 8 Nights

Get a real flavor and understanding of Irish folklore and enjoy some craic and music with this tour.

Irish Romance 8 Nights

Your honeymoon will begin in Ireland’s largest county, Cork.

Highlights of Ireland 8 nights

The Highlights of Ireland self-drive 8-night tour is one of our most popular tours and is based on Ireland’s most iconic and world-renowned attractions.

3 Centre Tour of Ireland 8 Nights

The 3 Center Tour is ideal for the traveler that wishes to see the best parts of Ireland but would prefer not to be in different accommodation every night.

Silver Irish Castles & Manors

A perfect choice for a honeymoon to Ireland, enjoy the superb quality of some of Ireland's most well-known Castles and Manor Houses, while enjoying the magnificent scenery and Irish hospitality.

Gold Irish Castles and Manors

Stay in some of our finest Irish Castles and Manor Hotels in Ireland’s most iconic locations Whether a family vacation or romantic Irish honeymoon, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

Platinum Irish Castles & Manors

This superior tour lets you enjoy the very best of Superior Irish Castles and Manors in Ireland.

Irish Charm Tour

When it comes to Ireland trips nothing compares to the beauty of Dublin, Galway, Cork and Kerry have to offer.

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Trips to Ireland, Vacation Packages & Tours

Go Irish Tours is an Irish-founded and Irish-run travel company specialising in package trips to Ireland, as well as limited trips to Scotland and the UK. We offer cheap Ireland vacations as well as luxury trips to Ireland, catering to all tastes and budgets.

Our team are expertly trained in travelling Ireland and have the unique advantage of being native to the island, meaning we can offer you insider knowledge of all things Irish. Click here to find out more about our talented and dedicated staff .

We’ve put the time and the effort into investigating the best value for money deals in luxury castle-stays, hotels, B&Bs, transport, food and sights. If you’re looking for the greatest bang for your buck when it comes to Ireland travel packages, then we are the perfect travel company for you.

Embark on Your Next Adventure – Book Your Dream Tour Today!

Our Ireland vacations stretch from north to south, east to west, covering every beloved landmark and hidden gem on the map. Get to know Ireland the way the locals do, avoiding time-consuming routes and costly days out. We will book everything for you while expertly adhering to your budget and time-frame. Our company prides itself on creating interesting, exciting and affordable Ireland tours for all kinds of individuals and groups. Whether you’re looking for a brief jaunt or a bucket-list adventure, we have an Ireland vacation to suit every heart’s desire. We’re one of the most popular and highest-rated travel sites in Ireland, and it’s not hard to understand why. Our excellent range of package trips to Ireland coupled with a native staff with insider knowledge and many years of experience make us the best company to book your Irish vacation with. Our Ireland tours are the most well-researched and constructed tours of the island, and we know each and every stop inside and out. If you’re going to plan a trip to Ireland, then Go Irish Tours is the company you need to get in touch with.

• Custom Built Itinerary

A self drive vacation with 7 days a week back up and peace of mind! A self drive vacation to Ireland allows you the freedom to explore Ireland at your pace. All our…

Coach Tours

Our coach tours are renowned for the newest line of buses with the best guides Ireland has to offer. Luxury comfort with breathtaking landscapes…

Chauffeur Driven

Sit back and relax. Our escorted tours include a tour guide who will drive you to all of Irelands best tourist attractions. A great way to see Ireland from a…

Our Selection of Tours

Go Irish Tours offer a wide range of trips to Ireland in three categories – self-drive, chauffeur or Ireland group tours. When you get in contact with us, we can help you choose a tour that is tailored to your budget and available time. There are Ireland vacations to suit everyone – even the choosiest of vacationers.

If there’s a group of you interested in a trip – a social event, church group, large family etc. – then we offer bus tours around Ireland to accommodate large groups. Ireland bus tours are a fabulous way to bond with a group and enjoy the experience with people who are important to you.

If you’re looking for a quick getaway we offer four- and five-day cheap trips to Ireland, perfect for people with limited time and a frugal budget. You can explore wonderful cities, sample the food and experience the culture. But be warned – once you’ve seen some of Ireland, you’ll want to come back again and do it all!

We also offer vacations of a lifetime – that bucket-list entry you’ve been looking to tick off? We have the Irish tours to fulfill it. Take two weeks to travel the length and breadth of Éire on an all-inclusive Ireland trip, getting to grips with the land whilst immersing yourself in culture, countryside and craic.

We can guarantee that no matter which of our Ireland vacation packages you choose, you’ll have the expert knowledge of our staff to guide you along the way and make sure your vacation is idyllic from beginning to end.

Click here to visit our self-drive tours, click here to visit coach tours, and click here to view our chauffeur-driven luxury tours. We’re sure there’s something to suit your needs!

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Cheap tours and packages all over Ireland to suit all tastes

Ireland is the home of myth and legend – where High Kings haunt the halls of castle ruins and rolling green hills stretch in every direction. If you’re in the market for an exhilarating, exciting and educational vacation then touring Ireland is the perfect trip for you. From Malin Head to Mizen Head and back again, our Ireland tour packages cover every base imaginable. Whether you’re looking for a historical experience, a fun-filled week abroad or even a romantic honeymoon getaway, the Emerald Isle has it all. Explore castles, cliffs, cities and coastline alike as you come to know Ireland as a second home – trust us, you won’t want to leave once you’ve been here! A vacation in Ireland really is an experience unlike all else. Ireland is a vast network of culture and spirit, branching out across the entire island and reaching every city, coastal town and village along the way. Only in Ireland can you experience thriving farmland coexisting alongside lively citylife, where tall buildings and rolling green hills exist side by side. An Irish trip is an experience you’ll never forget. If you’ve got Irish roots then planning a trip to ireland will mean even more to you – visiting your ancestral homeland is a rite of passage, as many US and Canadian citizens will already know.

My husband,three teenage grandchildren and i had a lovely vacation in Ireland this summer. Tina was very helpful with her suggestions and bookings for us, and Goirish provided a driver and van for us. Dennis was our driver, and I doubt you could find a sweeter and more accommodating man in all of Ireland.

My husband and I just returned from a 10 night trip. We flew into Dublin and did a self driving tour staying in many places. This trip was planned in 2019 prior to Covid. We were so excited to finally go and it did not disappoint. Every accommodation was fabulous and the scenery on the drives was amazing.

Our family just completed a weeks tour of Northern Ireland. Go Irish Tours did a fabulous job of planning our trip. Tina had everything ready for us and Pat our driver completed a perfect vacation. We are very comfortable recommending them for any trip to Ireland that you are thinking about.

Contact Us Today

Are you finally ready to bite the bullet and treat yourself to the vacation you sooo deserve? Then it’s time to get in touch with us! Contact us at Go Irish Tours where we will answer any questions or queries you may have. We’ll help you to build your Irish dream vacation from scratch and you’ll be assigned a travel guide who has a vast and in-depth knowledge of our Ireland trips. This guide will be with you from beginning to end, ready to help you with any problems. Click here to contact us, ask us a question or schedule a phone call to talk about our Ireland package deals. We will provide you with information on any and all of our Ireland trip packages, helping you get to grips with planning and deciding. We can’t wait to hear from you!

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Travel Butler

Our insider knowledge of Ireland is an essential part of building our tours and trips.The Travel Butler service is designed to ensure you get the best, truest Irish experience possible. The service is is personalised and tailored to each customer and their chosen tour. We have explored countless paths and services throughout the island which has given us an edge when it comes to rates, recommendations and VIP privileges.If you’re looking for a vacation company that can provide you with a legitimate, interesting and utterly authentic trip to Ireland, then look no further. Go Irish Tours is devoted to ensuring our customers get to witness the Emerald Isle in all its glory – hidden gems, day trips and perfect pints of Guinness included!

When you book with Go Irish Tours, the cost is upfront and clear. We won’t hit you with any hidden “extras” or other unpleasant surprises along the way. Your personalised itinerary will outline everything included on the tour, allowing you to plan your trip exactly to your tastes and specifications.

The best trips to Ireland and vacation packages

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Charming Ireland | 7 Day Self-Drive

Experience Ireland in the lap of luxury

A tour of Ireland can be just the remedy one needs to cure all that ails them. This self-drive tour allows for rest and relaxation and gives you the freedom to enjoy Ireland’s beauty and charm at your leisure.

• Luxury & Castle Hotels
• Wicklow Mountains & Glendalough
• Medieval Kilkenny
• Ireland’s Gourmet Capital
• Killarney & the Ring of Kerry
• Cliffs of Moher and The Burren
• Connemara Touring
• Dublin City Attractions

Inclusions & Extras

• Automatic economy car (7 days) with Unlimited mileage, Collision Damage Waiver (CDW), Theft protection (TP), Value added tax (VAT), Third party liability, Location service charge (LSC)

Accommodation

• 4 star hotel in Kilkenny (1)
• 4 star hotel in Killarney (2)
• 4 star hotel in Galway (2)
• 4 star hotel in North Dublin (1)

Attractions & Tours

• Smithwicks Experience
• Jaunting Car Ride
• Cliffs of Moher

Other Inclusions

• Breakfast included each morning except day of arrival
• Deluxe travel wallet with comprehensive travel documents, luggage tags and driving map.
• Expert service from dedicated sales guide before, during and after your trip.

Optional Extras

• Guinness Storehouse Experience
• Jameson Distillery
• EPIC Emigration Experience
• Walking Food Tour of Dublin
• Irish Night with Dinner
• Travel Protection
• Chauffeur Driver
• Rental Car Upgrade
• Room Upgrades

Day 1: Arrival and Wicklow Mountains

Arrive in Dublin where you will pick up your rental car and drive out of the city to catch your first glimpse of the real Ireland. You will journey through the Wicklow Mountains on your way to your luxury hotel in Kilkenny.

The Wicklow Mountains are one of the most scenic areas in the entire country and will make for a memorable journey. If you have the time or the appetite, there are many places to stop along the way, including the Irish National Stud & Gardens or Glendalough. You can also choose to arrive in Kilkenny early and wander around this wonderful medieval city.

Day 2: Cork, Blarney Stone, & Kinsale

In the morning, after an appetizing breakfast in your beautiful surroundings, make your way to Killarney. You can make this journey as long or as short as you like but we certainly recommend taking the scenic route and visiting the Blarney Stone, Cork City and the fishing town of Kinsale on your way.

Arrive in Killarney as evening falls. This is the perfect time to explore Killarney town. Between the craft shops, pubs, music and restaurants, there is something to suit all tastes on an evening in Killarney.

Day 3: Ring of Kerry & Lakes of Killarney

It is always recommended to take an entire day to travel the Ring of Kerry. Not only is it quite a long journey at 100 miles, but it is also a slow one as you will want to stop quite often to take photos, see the various landmarks, and view the spectacular Kerry scenery.

Before you end your day stop off at Ross Castle built in the late 15th century by one of the O’Donoghue Ross chieftains or visit Muckross House & Gardens, a magnificent Victorian mansion and one of Ireland’s leading stately homes. The Gardens at Muckross House are renowned world-wide for their beauty.

Day 4: Cliffs of Moher & Galway City

Today you depart Killarney for the beautiful Galway city. As with every journey you take in Ireland, there is plenty to break up your journey. Stop off in the town of Dingle on the edge of the Dingle Peninsula and take a ferry across the mouth of the River Shannon.

Head to the coast of County Clare to view the Cliffs of Moher, which rise to heights of almost 700 feet above the churning Atlantic swells. Walk along the top of the cliffs to O’Brien’s Tower for great views. Drive through the Burren. Stop off in Galway City and take a walk around for the evening as your hotel is in the city centre.

Day 5: Connemara Tour

Today set out along the west coast to Connermara and onto Clifden. Take some stunning pictures of Kylemore Abbey and find somewhere nice in the Connemara region to get some lunch. Make your way back to Galway city where you should spend a few hours. It is a beautiful little city that many consider the most charming in Europe. Be sure to make the short trip to Salthill and take a short stroll along the promenade. Make your way back to your hotel in your own time.

Day 6: Journey to Dublin

If you have set your sights on spending a lot of time in Dublin, it is better to leave early. It is only a two hour drive to your next hotel so you can take your time as you drive around Dublin, through Phoenix Park, down O’Connell’s Street and past the GPO.

Our advice would be to take public transport to see the city. The open top bus tour is the best way to see the city as you can hop on and off at the destinations of your choosing. Later on, make your way back to your castle hotel for your final night in Ireland.

Day 7: Return Home

Anything else you would like to do on your final day (depending on time of flight) can be done on this day before you head to the airport, drop off your car and begin your journey home.

We are more than happy to include a flight quote separately to your package so that you can decide if you would like to book with us or on your own.  While booking flights can seem straight-forward, there are often hidden fees or classes of service that do not include seat assignments, meals or checked bags. We have been booking flights since 1985 and know the best routings and have great contracts that mean we often have better prices than what you will see online.

In Ireland, we generally try to book hotels that are at a 4 star level or higher. In some situations, we will book some 3 star or B&B properties but we do require them to be at a certain standard. We try to ensure a member of the team have stayed at each property in recent years or that we have done a site inspection.

Planning Deposits

Your first vacation quote, and up to two revisions, for trips of 9 or fewer days, and 45 days in advance of travel, are complimentary. If an itinerary requires further revisions subsequent to this, we will require a non-refundable deposit of $75 per person in order to continue.

If you are requesting a quote for a vacation that is 10 days in length, or with travel dates within 45 days, or to a non-core destination, a deposit of $75 per person will be required in order for us to begin working on your proposal.

Planning deposits can then be put towards the cost of the trip should you decide to proceed with the booking.

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Love irish tours, what we believe, our experience.

Love Irish Tours is a leading Irish tour company specializing in customized tours of Ireland. We offer self-drive tours , private escorted tours and bus tours throughout Ireland. All our tours are fully customizable. We provide a wide range of tours to suit any budget. We will not be beaten on price. Book with us and we will ensure you have the most memorable vacation! We put our passion into making your trip the dream vacation you have been planning for years.

We are here for you and we will take great care of you.

We are a young vibrant company based in County Meath in the heart of Ireland. County Meath is one of the most historic parts of Ireland and was the seat of power of the ancient High Kings of Ireland who ruled Ireland from the famous Hill of Tara. Newgrange, the UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a passage tomb that is older than the Pyramids of Egypt and is on our doorstep. Only a stone’s throw away from us is the famous Trim Castle, site of filming of Mel Gibson’s Braveheart. With all this history local to us, it is little wonder we became inspired to showcase all of what Ireland has to offer to the world!

We believe Ireland will be your most memorable vacation. Through us you will experience everything that Ireland has to offer. We genuinely believe you will have the experience of a lifetime and that once you arrive you won’t want to leave. At Love Irish Tours we believe we have everything you need to make your dream Irish trip a reality. We believe our model of doing business will ensure you have the best possible trip to Ireland. We build a personal relationship with all our customers and we have often been told that it is our personal touch that makes Love Irish Tours the success it has become.

We have over ten years experience in the tourism industry. We have extensive experience in the Irish tours business. We have created thousands of customised tours of Ireland over the years and our knowledge of Irish tourism is second to none. We have worked with group sizes ranging from one to 180 people and we have catered for every type of budget. We have travelled the length and breadth of Ireland and we have experienced everything for ourselves so that we know that our customers will have the best experience possible.

Available Tours

Self drive tours.

Our self-drive tours allow you the freedom to enjoy Ireland independently. We will provide an itinerary which can be customised to your needs. You will collect your car at your chosen location and your tour will begin!

• PRIVATE ESCORTED TOURS

Our private escorted tours allow you to explore Ireland with your own personal driver/guide. You will be collected upon arrival at your chosen airport by your driver/guide who will remain with you throughout your tour.

COACH TOURS

Our coach tours allow you to be part of a group with your driver/guide to tour throughout Ireland. A great way to discover Ireland! Not only will you see Ireland’s main attractions but you will discover Ireland’s hidden gems.

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7 Day Ireland Itinerary – Ultimate Road Trip Guide For The South

Last Updated April 25, 2024 William Tang

You are here: Home » Travel Itineraries » 7 Day Ireland Itinerary – Ultimate Road Trip Guide For The South

This 7-day Ireland itinerary guide is broken into three main parts – trip planning decision points, the comprehensive breakdown of each day, and my personal planning tips.  This is meant to be super comprehensive and is everything I would have wanted to know when I planned this South Ireland road trip, along with what to see in 7 days.

Ireland is a place where legends, epics, and science fiction become reality.  Ireland is a breathtaking ancient landscape, rolling green hills and craggy sharp rock. Ireland is céad míle fáilte (a hundred thousand welcomes).

Read more about Ireland

• Things you have to see and do on your Ireland road trip
• 6 of the Best Things to do in Galway
• Must-read Ireland travel guide

TOP TIPS FOR TRAVELING IRELAND

• Our favorite spot – You’ll discover this as you go through the itinerary but if I had to pick, I’d say it was our day at Skellig Michael , not only as a Star Wars nerd, but our timing in being able to see the puffins in droves.  Truly a special day.
• Where to stay – We used Booking.com for all of our stays and is great for finding those charming B&Bs. Alternatively, you can always see if hotel corporate codes might work for you.
• Renting a car – An important part to a road trip is obviously a car. Save the most money through car rental coupon codes and always start your search with Discover Cars and RentalCars so you know what the best deals are.
• Flights – International flights are never cheap, but with the Skyscanner “Everywhere” feature you can find the best deals. Check how much it would be for you to get to Ireland!
• Insurance – This is a must for a road trip! Check out the best travel insurance .
• Hottest deals – Bookmark our frequently updated travel deals page .

In This Article

Recommended travel time

Areas to focus, best time to go, packing essentials, where to stay, flying into ireland, interactive map, itinerary day 1 – a peek inside the ancient east, itinerary day 2 – from castles to a ring called kerry, itinerary day 3 – magic on skellig michael, itinerary day 4 – a day in killarney, itinerary day 5 – coastal adventures on dingle peninsula, itinerary day 6 – mighty cliffs and the burren, itinerary day 7 – clash of gaelic sport and dublin delight, itinerary flexibility and changes, frequently asked questions, travel resources for your next trip, ireland road trip planning.

Planning a South Ireland road trip isn’t hard.  There’s a few things to consider as you put everything together before you start planning.

For more details make sure to read everything you need to know when you plan a trip to Ireland .

There’s three scenarios here: 1) You have limited vacation days, 2) you found a flight deal with specific dates, or 3) there’s flexibility.

If it’s #1 or #2, you already know your answer but if it’s #3, things become intriguing.  It’s in part dictated by your decision on how much you’d like to see and the pace at which you travel.

Our week in Ireland wasn’t enough to see everything we wanted in the south but was the perfect amount to see the highlights.  I’d say Ireland in 7 days is a bare minimum and your itinerary will be decently packed.  Any less, you’ll have to focus on less regions or drive aggressively which isn’t recommended.

Two weeks is the perfect amount whether you decide to deep dive in a specific area or see the whole island.  For the sake of keeping this guide focused, let’s say you only have 7 days to work with.

A week in the Emerald Isle is certainly not enough but if you’ve got limited time like we did, you’ll have to make a pretty critical decision.  Do you focus on the North, South, or the whole island?  Do you want to take it slow or hit up as much as you can? 

The island of Ireland is divided into two parts.  The majority of the land is covered by the Republic of Ireland (officially named Ireland) and the other sixth is Northern Ireland which is part of the United Kingdom to the northeast.

One of the most recognizable places of Ireland is Giant’s Causeway and it’s the reason you’ll want to come to this part of the island.  The unusual basalt pillars are incredibly unique and will boggle your mind.  In the north, it’s cities like Belfast and Derry which present the most compelling and fascinating political history if you’re interested in learning about that and the complicated past around Ireland’s independence.  There is plenty to see here and it’s just as beautiful as the southern part of the island.

Other highlights include:

• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
• Dark Hedges
• Donegal – There’s a reason why this region was picked as ‘Coolest Place on the Planet for 2017’ by  National Geographic Traveler

There is no official “southern Ireland” borderline but we’re labeling that as everywhere below the line connecting Galway to Dublin.

Southern Ireland is dramatically different in terrain and sights than the north.  The south is where you’ll find a majority of the larger cities of Ireland including Dublin, Cork, Galway city, and Limerick.

Our main reason for doing a South Ireland road trip is to experience the Ring of Kerry, Skellig Michael, Dingle, Connemara National Park and explore castles and ancient ruins.

The full loop

The island itself isn’t that large (area wise, it is in fact smaller than Iceland) and doing a loop is certainly possible in 7 days.  It’s an ambitious schedule but definitely possible.

Ultimately we chose to do the south because we had done Northern Ireland on a separate short stopover trip and wanted to see a different side to Ireland.

The summer months are short and in the winter most things in the country are shut down.  As a result, it kind of makes it simple in terms of when to plan your trip.

July and August are the peak of high season; school is out and you contend with the large hoards of tourists, both domestic and international.  On average these months have a high of 20C.

Spring and fall are going to be a bit temperamental but, if you’re okay with rain, you’ll find awesome flight deals and cheaper hotels.  Expect the temperatures to be colder though with highs of 15C.

The sweet spot, however, has to be June .  It’s during the summer solstice with the longest days of the year and it’s the start of high season.  You get the best of amazing weather and smaller crowd sizes.  It was incredible that there was enough light to sightsee until 10PM.

Packing for a South Ireland road trip shouldn’t be too hard as you’ll be staying at B&B’s and hotels all the way through.

Since you’ll have access to a car you don’t have to pack ultra-light.  You will want to rent the smallest car possible though, which means minimal trunk space.

Waterproof – You’re not going to skip every spot you have on your itinerary because of rain.  This means that you’ll have to brave the elements.  Have rain gear with you in case you need it.

GPS – If you have a data plan, using your smartphone for GPS will be your first choice so you can leverage any traffic information to take the most optimal route.  If not, a stand-alone unit will work just as well. Don’t assume your car will have GPS built in.  Before your trip, make sure you save areas offline on Google Maps and Save/Star all your destinations.  Google Maps will work offline (minus traffic adjustments).

Money – Ireland is part of the EU and as such, Euro is the currency.  Cash or credit is widely accepted.  If you’re from Canada, make sure you have the right credit card to either minimize on foreign exchange fees or maximize points.

Always cool – In the summer, it tops out in the low 20Cs.  Evenings drop down to the 10Cs or lower so pack accordingly.  I had a light Quiksilver hoodie always ready to go in the car in case things got chilly.

You can find other gear that I recommend for a trip to visit Ireland below.

• Columbia Women’s Outdry Ex ECO Tech Jacket  – Whether it’s this or another waterproof jacket, the key is to have a light and durable outer layer that will at least keep your upper body dry.
• Helly Hansen rain pants – We were lucky enough to never needs these on our trip but have learned from Iceland, it is always good to have pants that you can slip on.
• Columbia Conspiracy Titanium OutDry Trail Running Shoe – To round out the waterproofing gear, having good shoes that perform well during hikes, walks, and rain is so important.  We love these shoes because they’re breathable, low profile which is good for summer, and very comfortable.
• Travel towel – B&B’s are great at providing amenities like towels, but the one instance for us where we needed this was at Galway Glamping .  Whether you need it or not, these are super compact and can be useful in other scenarios like if you get wet from the rain, decide to go to the beach, or do surfing lessons.
• Eagle Creek Pack-It Specter Cube Set  – These are awesome for any travel you do.  We’ve been using this set for awhile to keep our shirts organized, underwear together, and all our random loose cables and chargers in one spot.
• Victorinox Travel Organizer – Ireland was so safe that we didn’t feel the need to travel with a money belt so organizers like this were perfect to keep my passport and travel papers nice and tidy.
• Toiletry kit – The hanging toiletry organizer is a must for any traveler.  We’re a big fan because the hook allows you to hang this off of a vanity mirror or towel rack in a hotel/hostel and gives you counter space.  Kits like this are small but surprisingly allow you to pack a ton of things inside.
• Travel power bar – Surge protectors such as this that take 1 outlet into 3 is helpful especially if you have to charge a bunch of things at night. You never know how many outlets your B&B or hotel is going to have so this is super handy.
• Cigarette USB adapter – USB plugs in cars are notorious for being slow charging.  Get one of these chargers for the cigarette adapter to allow two USB devices to be charged at the same time and at a faster rate.  The one we used was unfortunately a slow speed one.
• Power bank – If you have more devices you want to charge on the go and you’ve run out of ports/adapters in the car, it’ll be smart to have a basic power bank as your back up.  This Xiaomi one has a ton of capacity (10,000 mAH) and is super light.
• Car phone holder – If you’re going to be using your phone as your GPS, don’t forget to bring a holder. Our favorite are these magnetic ones which clip to an air vent.  The unfortunate thing for us was that we didn’t account for our rental car to not have a regular air vent which made it near impossible to mount.  We eventually found a way but it was at a weird angle and the phone would periodically fall off.  The kind of things you don’t really think about when you’re packing right?

After deciding the focus area of your trip and having a rough idea of the spots you want to see, the next step is figuring out where to stay.

The best part about Ireland is the hospitality and it’s a big reason we had such a great time.  The scenery blew our minds, but those conversations with the owners of the B&Bs and hotel staff made for a lasting impression.

B&B’s:   You’ll only find hotels in the big cities. In the country-side you’re going to rely on family owned B&B accommodations.  Each one is unique and the best part is the delicious breakfast included.

Hotels:   In the bigger cities you’ll have the option to stay at a hotel.  We quite enjoyed our big rooms, luxurious beds, and room cleaning when we had the opportunity.  Not to say we didn’t have that at the B&Bs, but it was nice to go into a hotel knowing the level of service and quality that you’d expect.

Glamping:   When I found out about Galway Glamping with Mongolian yurts, I knew we had to try it.  You get an experience that gets you into the charming countryside setting while not sacrificing the comforts of a hot shower, kitchen, and lounge rooms.  Similar to B&Bs, the hosts are just as accommodating, friendly, and helpful.

Places we stayed across Ireland in 7 days:

• Kilkenny – Newlands Lodge
• Portmagee – Skellig View White Room Airbnb
• Killarney – The Lake Hotel
• Dingle – An Portán
• Lisdoonvarna (near Doolin) – Slieve Elva B&B
• Galway – Galway Glamping
• Dublin – The Croke Park Hotel

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

Tips and Advice:

• Be careful about check-in times.  Typically there are very specific time slots where they expect you to come in.  If you aren’t able to, make sure you reach out to them beforehand, give the owners an estimate of when you’ll arrive, and get approval.
• When glamping, make sure to ask what facilities are available so you come prepared.  In Galway Glamping’s case, they did not provide towels so we had to bring our own travel towel .

The main international airport is Dublin (DUB) but there are also airports in Shannon (SNN), Belfast (BFS), Cork (ORK), and Knock in West Ireland (NOC).

Coming from Canada, Dublin airport will be your primary access point into Ireland.  Our choice of airline is Air Transat .  We flew economy and were greeted with great leg room, a solid entertainment system, excellent service and amazing food.

If you’re coming from another part of Europe, you have even more airports open to you.

• Kerry Airport : Served by flights from Dublin, Manchester, London-Luton, London-Stansted and Frankfurt.
• Waterford Airport:  Served by flights from London-Luton, Manchester, Birmingham, Bordeaux, Lorient.
• Galway Airport:  Served by flights from Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Edinburgh, Leeds Bradfort, London Luton, Manchester, Newcastle, Southampton.
• Donegal Airport
• Sligo Airport
• George Best Belfast City Airport
• City of Derry Airport

These options allow you to get creative with your itinerary.  For instance, instead of doing a round trip journey in and out of Dublin, you could start in Dublin on the East side of the island to Shannon on the West.

Table of Contents

The 7 Day Ireland Itinerary

With the basics covered, the next step is to plan your day by day Ireland itinerary.

This high level outline shows everything we did across the 7 day road trip including sights, restaurants we tried, where we stayed, and invaluable insight we learned through adventure and misadventure.

This is meant to be a guideline because everyone’s situation will be different.  That said, if you’re looking for a baseline to start from, this guide is probably the best out there.  Sign up to become an insider and get access to the downloadable spreadsheet .

If you’re coming from North America, you’ll most likely be taking a red-eye flight, flying out in the evening and arriving the next morning.  This means you may be too tired to hit the ground running.  For us, we tried to sleep through the flight so that we’d have enough energy to last the first day.

Upon landing in Dublin and out of the airport by 1PM, we made an explicit decision to hit the road right away.  There’s more details in the driving section of our road trip guide but since I knew driving in Dublin was going to be a headache, it seemed more logical to finish there, return the car in the city and then rely on local transportation.

After picking up our rental car from Europcar we found our way to Glendalough in the gorgeous Wicklow Mountains region.  Glendalough Monastic City ruins were very impressive and almost fairytale-like with the Round Tower, Cathedral of St. Peter and St. Paul, the high crosses in the graveyard, and the priest’s house.  Make sure not to miss the walk up to the Upper Lake which has a postcard worthy view.  It’s roughly a 30 minute walk each way.

We then drove to the city of Kilkenny, our final destination of the day.  We arrived too late to do the Kilkenny Castle tour but there was plenty to see walking around the grounds, including the massive green park on one side and the rose garden on the other.

After dinner, we treated ourselves to Murphy’s Ice Cream.   Our favorite flavor has to be their Dingle Sea Salt, try it!

If we had more time:

Smithwick’s Experience – Smithwick’s ended up being our beloved beer for the trip and would have loved to have done this tour.  They also had an evening experience that sounded fun.

PETRONELLA RESTAURANT & CAFE

Quaint restaurant down a small alleyway in Kilkenny that serves excellent European dishes that span Irish to Italian.  Ordered the Baked Goatsbridge trout and Pappardelle pasta and both were very good.  Loved the decor here as well.  Best part was when the manager, Frank, came out to greet all the customers to see how everything was.

TripAdvisor

NEWLANDS LODGE

Just outside of Kilkenny, this B&B is a lovely property that will exceed all expectations whether it comes to the spacious rooms that are impeccably clean, friendly service from owners Mairead and Jimmy, and delicious all-inclusive breakfast.

Booking.com

Tips and Tricks:

• Car rental and driving tips – See everything you need to know to plan a trip to Ireland . We found our car rental via Discover Cars .
• Parking at Glendalough – We parked at the first parking lot we saw which turned out to be the Glendalough Hotel.  The parking was “free” and we weren’t ticketed although I’d say in high season it may not be as easy as it was for us.
• Glendalough Monastic City – No admission required.
• Relieve and hydrate – The walk to the Upper Lake is long and there isn’t much cover at the main site so either use the visitor center or Glendalough Hotel for the bathroom facilities.
• Kells Priory – This is an off-the-beaten-path spot that would be worth considering in your itinerary.  Read more about it here .

With a full stomach from our Irish breakfast, we hopped into our car and made our way to the Rock of Cashel .  

On a green hill with banded limestone, ancient fortifications create a ring around the Gothic cathedral, round tower, and chapel.  We were able to walk through the open, yet remarkably intact, ruins while also enjoying the rolling countryside of Tipperary.

Next stop was the famed Blarney Castle just outside of Cork.  The grounds of Blarney Castle and Gardens are huge and require a half day to fully explore everything.  We walked straight to the castle tower to line up to kiss a stone famed for giving the gift of eloquence.  

Wrapping up at Blarney Castle, we rushed through Killarney and connected to the Ring of Kerry to start our counter-clockwise rotation.  

The scenery at this point dramatically changed from tree lined country roads to coastal cliffs and crashing waves.  This is where you’ll appreciate having your own car .

After a few impromptu stops along the way, we made our final stop of the night at Kells Bay House & Gardens .  Here, we had a lovely and surprisingly authentic Thai meal at their in-house Sala Thai Restaurant.

We had the Summer Solstice on our side and there was still a ton of light out after dinner.  This made navigating the road to Portmagee and over to our Airbnb much easier.  Sadly, we had to skip pretty much everything along the way along this part of the Ring of Kerry except a quick stop at a gas station to pick up breakfast and snack items for the next day.

• Cork – It would’ve been nice to explore Cork and their English Market and visit the Cobh Heritage Centre.
• Blarney Gardens – I would have loved to have spent more time doing the various walks around the Poison Garden, Fern Garden, Arboretum, and the endless other garden walks that explore the mystical and magical landscapes.
• Killorglin – This is the first town we passed by along the Ring of Kerry.  We zipped right through but I would have loved to have stopped here even for a few minutes to get a feel for a small town like this one.
• Cahirciveen – This is home to the Ballycarbery Castle and the Old Barracks which is built in the Schloss style.  Legend says they mixed up plans for this and a building designed for somewhere in Punjab, India.

SALA THAI RESTAURANT

This is the in-house restaurant as part of the Kells Bay House property.  As someone that’s had a lot of Thai food, I have to say that the curries, noodles, and skewers we had were all very good and very authentic.  The only knock I’d have on this place is the service.  Our order took way too long to get to the table and only after following up did they realize that they missed our order completely and had to make it from scratch at that point.

SKELLIG VIEW WHITE ROOM AIRBNB

A no frills kind of Airbnb that I booked pretty early on because I was worried that the town of Portmagee would sell out.  Our host, Marie, was very accommodating of our late check-in request and I appreciated the free passes to Kerry Cliffs.  The room was just the right size and in relatively clean condition.  Wifi included as well.

Check rates

Tips and Tricks :

• Rock of Cashel – Parking is right up the narrow road right at the base of the hill.  It’s an automated parking system where you pay the machine when you’re leaving.  This parking costs 4.50 EUR.  To save money you could park in town and walk up.  Entrance is 8 EUR per person.
• Blarney Castle  – Be ready for lines to kiss the Blarney Stone.  If you’re not in a rush, I recommend doing the other parts of the garden, waiting for the line to subside and then doing the castle itself.
• Blarney Gardens –   Entrance is 14 EUR per person booked online.

Thinking about what to see in Ireland in 7 days, this is my #1 must-do.  The entire pilgrimage experience of zipping across the North Atlantic to discover that the white tipped Little Skellig was in fact covered by white gannets and adorable puffins that made Skellig Michael their home.  Then following in the ancient footsteps of Luke Skywalker and Rey up to the monastery itself was pure magic.

The 2.5 hours we had on the island seemed like a lot initially but once we started climbing the steps and exploring the beehive huts of the monastery, time passed quickly.

Back on the mainland and after lunch, we explored the lesser-known Valentia Island.  We wouldn’t have known about this part of the Ring of Kerry if it wasn’t for incredible photos I had seen from this area.  With the higher vantage points of Geokaun Mountain (5 EUR per car) and the slate quarry behind Valentia Lighthouse (5 EUR per person), the scenery was as close to postcard perfect as it gets.

We then continued along our ring road journey by joining up with the Skellig Ring where we stopped by Kerry Cliffs (4 EUR per person) which is an impressive view of the jagged edged rocky coast.  It’s at the edge of the peninsula where the land rises and then sharply drops into the ocean.

The driving adventure continued along until rejoining the main Ring of Kerry.  Due to time, we couldn’t stop in the towns along the way.  From Waterville and onwards, it was straight driving.  Since we weren’t close to the coast there wasn’t much to stop and see.

At Molls Gap , we took a quick break before descending into Killarney National Park with sunlight starting to wane.  We were able to make quick stops at Ladies View where you can see where the glaciers carved through the valley before the opening into Killarney itself.

It was late by the time we checked into The Lake Hotel so no restaurants were open.  We hopped downstairs to the Devil’s Punchbowl Bar , grabbed a pint, and ordered a sandwich.

• Waterville, Sneem, Caherdaniel, and Kenmare – It would’ve been nice to take our time through these idyllic coastal towns but I feel the trade off of spending more time on Valentia Island and the Skellig Ring was worth it.

THE BRIDGE BAR

With barely any time to snack on Skellig Michael, we were famished by the time we arrived back in Portmagee.  Right along the main street is this nice little local restaurant which gets all the Skellig tourists.  Their fish and chips definitely hit the spot.

THE LAKE HOTEL

A historic hotel that is full of character but doesn’t show its age.  The rooms here are incredibly spacious and comfortable.  Breakfast as part of the B&B package was of the highest quality and the perfect charge-up for the day.  Location wise, it can’t be beat either being practically on Killarney National Park Grounds with that amazing view of the old castle ruins at the footsteps of Lough Leane.

• Booking:  You must book at least 4-5 months in advance in order to guarantee a spot for a specific date.  If you haven’t, don’t fret because cancellations happen all the time.
• Casey’s Tours to Skellig Island
• Skellig Michael Cruises
• The Skelligs – Force Awakens Boat Trip – Leaves from Ballinskelligs which is a totally different pier from Portmagee
• Skellig Boat
• Skellig Walker Cruises
• Skellig Michael Voyage
• The Skelligs Tour – Departs from Caherdaniel
• Skellig Experience Visitor Centre also has a page for boat tours here .
• Weather:  If the weather is poor for the boats, they’ll cancel the trip.  That’s why Skelligs Rocks ensured we called the morning of to confirm whether the trip would be a go or not.  There’s not much you can do here other than perhaps planning 2 days in the Ring of Kerry area so that if one day doesn’t work, you can reorganize things so you can have a second day to attempt a trip out.
• Boat ride:   With the speed of the boat, you’re not going to get that rocky, nausea inducing feeling that folks sensitive to being on the water get.  That being said, the water does get choppy especially on the way out which is why you have to wear the waterproof gear provided by the boat.  For those that get sea sick easily, they do offer medicine on board prior to leaving the pier if you need it but nobody on our boat ride had issues.  Make sure you tuck your camera away once the boat is out in open water because you will get very wet especially if you sit near the back.  The captain was also nice enough to provide big zip-loc bags in case.
• Difficulty:   There are two main sets of steps to the Monastery but I would say it’s relatively easy.  The first set slowly winds up with some natural spots for breaks.  The steps are wide enough to allow people to pass.  The second set of steps are more steep but if you take your time, you’ll make it up with no issues.  Compared to the Inca Trail where altitude was in effect , this felt very easy since it only required short spurts of energy.
• Tour:  Make sure you stick around for the educational talk given by one of the rangers when you get to the Monastery.  I don’t think there’s a fixed schedule but I could be wrong.  It felt like it was every hour.
• Valentia Lighthouse  – Admission to here was 5 EUR per person but didn’t think it was worth it.  The lighthouse and the small museum weren’t too interesting and the views weren’t anything special.  What was a nice view was in fact from the slate quarry which is visible when you look back inland from the lighthouse.  From here you get sweeping views of the lighthouse and the sprawling peninsula fingers that meet here.
• Skellig Ring – The Skelligs are in view for most of the drive around here and was honestly more of a joy to drive through compared to the Ring of Kerry because the large coaches don’t come here.  There weren’t designated stops per say but it was a joy to find pullovers to see the villages below.
• Ring of Kerry –  I would recommend driving counter-clockwise which is the official designated route for all the coach buses.   I’d much rather be stuck behind one and feel comfortable that opposing traffic will have to yield and when the opportunity arises to pass.  The driving section will cover this in more detail but I’ll say two things. 1) The speed limit is way too high so don’t feel pressured to drive that fast and 2) As scary as everyone made driving the ring sound, it wasn’t that bad because you’re never at a cliff’s edge and there are usually tiny pull offs for oncoming cars.

After a hearty breakfast at The Lake Hotel , we ventured about the hotel grounds.  The hotel backs right into the largest lake of the national park and as part of that, there’s also the ruins of The McCarthy Mór Castle.

You’ll need a full day exploring Killarney National Park because it’s huge.  For us, we wanted to hit up the main sights.  We were able to see Muckross Abbey, Muckross House, Torc Waterfall, and Ross Castle.  I was probably most impressed with the Abbey and its courtyard that must’ve inspired Tolkien.

Wanting to spend time in the town of Dingle, we hit the road right after we finished at the castle.  The drive through the southern coast of the peninsula was amazing with views of the water as you winded through.  The Ring of Kerry side was always visible across the water and we made quite a few stops along the way.

We quite enjoyed our time in Dingle as we were able to take a relaxing stroll along the main streets of town, popping into the small shops that were painted in a variety of colors.   After dinner, we also made sure we tried a few more flavors at Murphy’s Ice Cream.

• Killarney National Park – I would’ve loved to have done a few hikes in the park.  I was also sad that we weren’t able to take the boat across from Ross Castle to the Meeting of the Waters and Old Weird Bridge.
• Gap of Dunloe – This was part of the plans but had to be cut.  There’s an awesome hike there that takes around 2 hours with breathtaking views of the lake, a heritage cottage, and the surrounding mountains.
• Killarney City – If there’s one city we completely skipped because of time, it was Killarney.  It’s supposed to be a charming city with great food options like Quinlan’s Seafood Bar and Lane Cafe Bar.

OUT OF THE BLUE

If you love seafood, this is your spot.  The seafood chowder is out of this world.  The fish is all locally caught and fresh and it comes through in the two dishes we had – sea bass and pollock were probably the best of the entire trip.

This is one of the few B&Bs located on the western part of Dingle Peninsula which is the perfect spot to launch into the main sights along Slea Head Drive and the ferry out to the Blasket Islands.  The owners, Rónán and Geraldine are warm and friendly hosts that also serve up delicious breakfast.  The rooms are spacious, clean, and even come furnished with a rocking chair.

Starting in Dunquin, which is where our B&B was located, was a bit of a blessing and a curse because it allowed us to jump right into Dunquin Harbour and The Blasket Centre but since driving counter to traffic is highly inadvisable as we were told, we had to cut across the mountain in order to drive on Slea Head Drive in the clockwise direction.

When it comes to Slea Head Drive , there really wasn’t a specific sight that you’re looking for.  It’s very much a look out into the ocean as you’re driving around.

We were told that the Famine Cottages are a tourist trap so we skipped that.  There are also beehive huts along the way but because as we had done Skellig Michael, we passed as well.  Cross at Slea Head is a good spot for a quick stop where you’ll see great views of the Blasket Islands.  From there, you can see Coumeenoole Beach .  The beach is a good spot for a picnic and there’s a nice hike to the peninsula’s edge.

We continued around the peninsula with stops at Clogher Head, which is more or less another beach, and the Louis Mulcahy Pottery studio (good for a bathroom break and quick peek).

We drove back into town for another quick stop before detouring north to cross Conor Pass.  At the peak, there’s a carpark where we stopped briefly to check out the magnificent sights here.  You can see the coast in the distance, farms at the valley floor, along with lakes and cliffs.

This is when the heavy driving started as we had to wind up Northeast towards Limerick before turning Northwest.  Along the way, we stopped in the city of Ennis where it started pouring but we ducked into Cruises Pub for dinner.

• Gallarus Oratory – This was on our itinerary for the drive around Dingle but because we didn’t have enough time, I quickly flew the drone and continued along our way.
• Quaint small towns of Dingle – Our B&B hosts recommended that we stop by Ballydavid but short on time, we had to skip them.
• Blasket Islands – This is a full day kind of event but if you had a couple of days in the area, we recommend getting a ferry over to the Great Blasket Island to create your own eco adventure.

CRUISES PUB

This spot was a bit of a happy accident for us.  Originally we wanted to eat at The Cloister Restaurant & Bar but they weren’t taken anyone without reservations.  This pub was full of energy when we stepped in with a Gaelic football match televised with live Irish music.  There was a good selection of local beer here on top of comfort Irish bar food.  The Guinness meat pie and bangers and mash were perfect.

SLIEVE ELVA B&B

Just outside the town of Lisdoonvarna is this amazing B&B which features cosy guest rooms which are both spacious, clean, and modernly renovated.  What makes any stay special is the hospitality of the owners Kris and Ireen who will go out way to make you feel at home.  Their breakfast is marvelous and you will love their personal touch of home made bread and jams.  On top of that, each room gets Ireen’s homemade biscuits.  This would be my B&B of choice for anyone want to visit Cliffs of Moher or The Burren in County Clare.

• Driving in Dingle – Having done the drive myself, I can confidently say that you do not want to drive counter-clockwise.  Slea Head Drive is designated as a two way road but some parts along the coast are only wide enough for one car.
• Tarbert to Killimer Ferry – Instead of driving through Limerick as we ended up doing, there’s an alternative route that involves a ferry from Tarbert and goes across to Killimer.  We were originally going to do this but it didn’t save us any time so we just kept on driving.  However, if you plan it well or just have a more flexible schedule, check the schedule beforehand and this’ll be a great way to cut down driving time.  It costs 19 EUR per car or 17.10 if you book online .

We started off by crossing through the countryside before dropping to the coast.  Where there were rolling valleys before, large forested areas popped up and the ground burst with streams of sharp jagged limestone.

The Cliffs of Moher were staggeringly impressive with its continuous sheer drop of 214 meters that winds out as far as the eye can see.  Where the vistas truly opened up was beyond the fences of the maintained park.  There, I only dared to walk to the death-defying edges a few times before following the ridge line down to the most northern point.   We ended up spending quite a bit of time here.

Our next stop was Burren Smokehouse .  What we learned was that the Smokehouse itself is just a store and next to it on the same street is the Storehouse.  We grabbed a sample platter to eat one of our few lunches on the trip.  It was so good that after lunch we picked up a few for home.  The tricky part was figuring out how to keep it refrigerated the remainder of the trip.

The rest of the afternoon was spent in Burren National Park , followed by a quick walk around the portal tomb, Poulnabrone .  The Burren region is out of this world.  Even though we didn’t get to do a full hike in this geopark, it shows the power of glaciers that carved through and left behind limestone pavement with fissures created by rainwater dissolution.  The end result is something that is so dramatically different from anywhere else in Ireland.

We closed out the day in Galway , my favorite city in Ireland.  We didn’t get to stay there long but it was somewhere that was full of energy with all the street performers.  Pedestrian streets ruled the downtown core, making it easy to walk and so approachable with its many shops and restaurants.

At the end of the night, we drove outside of the city to get to Galway Glamping where we had a chance to meet the owners and get a full tour of the grounds.  This night was hands down the most memorable of stays with an eclectic assembly of furniture in the Mongolian yurt which was surprisingly very cozy and warm thanks to the electrical heater.

We closed out the day in Galway which has got to be my favorite city in Ireland.  It’s not like we even got to stay there that long but it was somewhere that was full of energy with all the street performers.  Pedestrian streets ruled the downtown core which made it easy to walk and so approachable with its many shops and restaurants.

At the end of the night, we drove outside of the city to get to Galway Glamping where we had a chance to meet the owners where they gave us the full tour of the grounds.  This night was hands down the most memorable of stays with eclectic assembly of furniture in the Mongolian yurt which was surprisingly very cosy and warm thanks to the electrical heater.

• I put together an article about top things to do in Galway .  Head over there for more ideas.
• Ballyvaughan Fairy Fort – A hidden spot in The Burren, this ring fort is said to be on the road up to Poulnabrone, just opposite the left hand turn into the Ailwee Caves. Access is restricted but it’s supposedly easy to walk in.
• Ballyvaughan – Pretty thatched cottages, nice crafts shops, and restaurants.
• Aran Islands – The easiest way to get there is by catching a ferry from Doolin.  I’d recommend staying overnight at a minimum.  There are 3 islands in the chain but the most interesting is Inis Mór which features the cliff tops prehistoric ring forts.  A ton to see and explore here.
• Burren National Park – I’m still a bit disappointed in the hike we attempted here.  With a little better planning, I would’ve picked a better marked hike.
• Aillwee Cave/Pollnagollum  – Pollnagollum is a secret spot but if you know where to look, you can find the cave that inspired Lord of the Rings’ character, Gollum.  Entrance to the longest cave in Ireland, the more accessible way is through Aillwee Cave which is open to the public.  The best way to see it is to join up with a local caving tour ( Back West Adventures ).

THE BURREN STOREHOUSE

Everyone raved about The Burren Smokehouse and their restaurant (Storehouse next door) and it sure didn’t disappoint.  After our morning at the Cliffs of Moher, we made our way over here for a quick bite.  While they have a ton of other great menu items such as their pizza, what we really wanted to try was a sampling of their smoked fish. Luckily they have the Smokehouse Platter which has 6 of their products.  Two of us shared one plate and it was just right for a half lunch.  There’s often live music playing here as well.

GALWAY GLAMPING

The most unique accommodations of our Ireland itinerary.  Who would’ve thought we’d be able to stay in a Mongolian yurt in the middle of the Irish countryside.  What used to be an estate in ruins, the grounds have now been converted to this eclectic mix of yurts, axe-throwing, group games, party rooms, and other funky rooms.  What makes it glamping is that all rooms are furnished and powered while also including super clean bathroom, kitchen, and lounging facilities next door.

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• What the entry ticket is actually for – The entry ticket is only to get into the mass lot across the street.  Once you’re parked, all you do is cross the street and that’s it.  This kind of makes sense because there’s no way to police the cliffs to the north and the south.  Anyone can walk in.  They just bank on everyone driving.  You do have to get in the same line as everyone regardless if you purchase your ticket online ahead of time.
• How to get in for free – There’s a farmer that has land right next to the most northerly edge of the cliffs who is apparently super cool with people parking along the road as long as his car can still drive through.  The photo below is the spot that you should be looking for.  If you’re coming from the north, you’ll see this before the mass parking lot.  You can use either side as you can see.
• Best time to go – If I were to do it again, I’d definitely plan to go after 4PM.  During the middle of the day, there are way too many tourist buses and the sun is right above you which creates incredibly harsh shadows.  I’ve seen the photos and sunsets are epic here.
• Best spots for photos – To get that postcard perfect shot, you need to leave the official bounds of the tourist site (there are signs that let you know).  We couldn’t do both ends but chose to hike to the northern edge which gives a full view of the pinnacle and a long depth of cliffs front to back.

• Burren National Park – This park is unique because there aren’t any specific boundaries and isn’t run like a national park that we’re used to.  That’s why the visitor center is in the nearby town of Corofin.  We didn’t go there and just plotted a route to the park via Google Maps.  In retrospect it wasn’t a good idea because I had no clue where the hike trails were.  At the Gortlecka Crossroads, we saw a bunch of cars parked here so we did as well.  Thing is, there’s only one board here that indicated there was a trail here.  We tried to follow it but eventually got side tracked by a gate opening that we thought was the right way.  Long story short, we gave up and turned back.  Either we are terrible at hiking or the trails are just poorly marked.  Lesson learned:  Get a trail map from the visitor center first.
• Tunnel toll – When driving up to Galway, we hit an unexpected toll since there’s a tunnel you have to go through.  This is an unattended machine so you have to make sure you have enough coins for this.  The toll is 1.90 EUR.
• Galway parking – You’re probably not going to find free parking here.  We circled around for a bit to see if we could get free parking to no avail.  In the end, we found a paid lot.

On our last full day in Ireland we started early.  We had an exciting morning planned with Clash Gaelic Games and we needed to travel East to get there.  While that sounds daunting, it was mostly on the motorway (highway) and took about 2 hours.

One thing you need to understand about Ireland is that while European football is popular, it pales in comparison to the Gaelic sports.  Gaelic Football and Hurley are the top two sports in the country and what better way to end off the trip than to get to learn how to play these two sports.  I had found out about Clash Gaelic Games through my research and I thought it was such a fun way to learn about culture while burning a few calories and making a fool of ourselves.  

After our mini workout, we had to get into the city, check into our hotel, cab over to Kilmainham Gaol prison, then make it late to Trinity College’s Old Library to see the Book of Kells .  We were able to stroll the streets and get some retail therapy at the hyper cheap Penny’s following.

With one night to make it count, we had dinner at L. Mulligan Grocer and spent the rest of the night drinking Guinness and listening to live Irish music at The Temple Bar .

• Dublin  – I would have liked to have seen St. Patrick’s Cathedral, St. Stephen’s Green, done more shopping, tried more restaurants, and drank a little harder.
• Pubs – The Temple Bar is the most popular one in the city but there are so many other good ones including The Dame Tavern and The Brazen Head.
• Guinness – While we weren’t big fans at the beginning, this famous stout grew on us throughout the trip.  The Guinness Storehouse is in Dublin and would be a fun place to visit for any lover of this beer. You can get advance tickets here .
• Newgrange – While technically not in Dublin, north of the city is a large and ancient burial site built of stone and architectured to only let light into the ritual chamber at sunrise on Winter Solstice.
• Howth – This is a village north of Dublin and near Portmarnock.  Located on a bulbous peninsula and featuring sweeping coastal views, it includes a superb food and crafts market.  It’s a place that gives you a flavor of everything we saw on the west coast without driving too far from Dublin.
• Malahide Castle & Gardens – While I’m sure this would’ve been impressive, we couldn’t fit this in with how long Clash went.  I wasn’t too sad in this case though since we had seen Blarney Castle & Gardens and I imagine it would be somewhat similar.

L. MULLIGAN GROCER

It’s a peculiar name for sure and it’s a bit far from the city centre but well worth it for the wide range of craft beers on tap and menu items.  We tried a most interesting watermelon wheat beer which tasted like…you guessed it…watermelon!  Our Moules Frites and Free Range Chicken Kiev were most excellent.

THE CROKE PARK HOTEL

This Doyle Collection hotel is located right next door to the famed Croke Park stadium where all the biggest Gaelic sport matches are held.  This signature hotel in the Dublin is a contemporary hotel that is big on comforts.  Their mattresses are heavenly with velvety duvets, there’s good table space to work, comfy furniture to relax, and the marbled bathrooms.  If you get the packing that includes breakfast, you’ll be treated to a wide buffet selection including honey straight from the honeycomb and my favourite, the croissants, which were delightful.  The staff was incredibly friendly and lastly, parking is included for free.  It’s the perfect hotel to launch your Dublin adventures from.

• Clash Gaelic Games  – While it was a bit of a specialized session with just the two of us, if you’re traveling with a big group of friends or if you’re a family, this is a great way to stay active and honestly try something you’d never be able to do anywhere else.
• Driving in Dublin – Everyone said “don’t do it” and they were right.  The core is a mess especially with the construction going on.  You do not want to drive in the city.  Taking a cab or local transit is the way to go so make sure you either return the car rental, wait to rent the car later, or your hotel has free parking.
• Uber – I experienced the most peculiar thing with Uber in Dublin.  There were numerous times when I’d order a cab and while it was on its way, they could cancel the ride.  I couldn’t understand why this kept happening until I realized that all the Uber drivers were regular cabbies essentially.  Every cab had Uber and another local app running on their phones and so they had to allegiance to any one of them and if they found a more convenient ride along the way, they’d take it.  On top of that, Uber also doesn’t display prices because it’s all standard meters.  At the end of the day, just understand that hailing a cab or ordering an Uber is no different.  In Dublin, I’d say hailing is just easier if you’re in a busy area because you won’t get canceled on.
• Kilmainham Goal is 8 EUR per person (plus booking fees online) and Book of Kells is 10 to 13 EUR depending on peak or off-peak hours per person.

Trips never go as planned.  This one was no different.  For the most part though, nothing dramatically changed where we had to restructure things around.  This trip was one where I simply packed too much in and had to make the call to fast forward if time was running low.

Here’s a little insight into why I feel that our plans deviated to help in your own planning:

• Not starting the day early enough – We could’ve fit more in if we hit the road after breakfast by 8AM instead of 9 or 10AM on most days.
• Taking too long in each spot – Between photos, videos, drone, and eyes, we spent more time than we had planned for.
• Driving time according to GPS is inaccurate – If you drove by Ireland’s ridiculously high speed limit and didn’t stop, sure, but the reality is that you’ll be making stops to take photos of the views and you’ll be slowing down around all corners and when there’s opposing traffic.
• Skipping meals – This is more of what happened as a result of a packed schedule.  Since we always had breakfast included by our B&Bs or hotels, lunch was the first thing to go out the window.
• Unexpected stops – You can’t plan for these but we stopped along the Ring of Kerry to help a couple with their flat tire which put us behind.  Alternatively, I didn’t have much planned for Dingle but we got a long list of suggestions from the B&B, so we ended up spending more time there before driving out of the peninsula.
• Losing track of time – As much as it was a massive advantage to have incredibly long days (usable light up until 10PM), it was also easy to just keep going.  As a result, there were a few times where we got to our dinner spot too late and had to make alternate plans.

So there you have it, the itinerary guide for a south Ireland road trip.  It was an ambitious trip for sure, but we only covered a small portion of everything Ireland has to offer.

Hopefully you’ll be able to use this as a starting point for your trip planning and if you have any questions don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!

Make Trip Planning To Ireland A Breeze Make sure to read this companion travel guide to planning the best road trip in Ireland.

No, as long as you have a valid driver’s license you do not need an international one. A valid driver’s license allows you to rent a car as well. Note that there are different age requirements in Ireland when it comes to renting a car, be sure to look into that if concerned.

The amount of days really depends on what parts of Ireland you’d like to see and if you’d like to take your time seeing them all or not. You’ll need to decide if you want to do the north part, the south or the full loop. In our case, 7 days was barely enough to tour southern Ireland, but to do the full loop we would recommend more.

The best month to travel Ireland is June. There’s not as much rainfall during this month and the days are longer due to summer solstice, therefore you get more time to do and see more.

What you should read next

• A Week in Ireland – Enchanting Castles, Wild Coastline, and Star Wars
• 10 Must-See and Do Things For Any Road Trip in Ireland
• Ireland Road Trip Travel Guide – Everything You Need To Know
• Why You Absolutely Must Do A Road Trip Around Ireland In Photos

If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100% .

Credit cards: Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card . Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.

Flights: Of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature . Kayak is also another that’s we will often check as well.

Car Rental: If you’re looking to save money, these car rental coupon codes will be a true game-changer. Otherwise, DiscoverCars and RentalCars are great places to start.

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Data: We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices like PokeFi (use code GAP24300) because their rates are so good and you can use it globally but recently, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. The best one is Airalo . Save money by getting region-specific eSIMs and use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase. Ubigi is another one that we’ve had success with where they uniquely offer 5G coverage. Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.

Hotels: Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts . The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. TripAdvisor is also useful for reviews and bookings.

Vacation Rentals: Your first instinct will be to check Airbnb but we always recommend checking VRBO as well if you’re looking for a vacation rental.

Tours: When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.

Travel Insurance: Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.

• Insured Nomads – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks.
• RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
• SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
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• InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.

If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.

About William Tang

William Tang is the Chief of Awesome behind the award-winning Going Awesome Places which is focused on outdoor adventure, and experiential travel. His true passion lies in telling stories, inspiring photography and videos, and writing detailed itineraries and travel guides. He is a member of Travel Media Association of Canada (TMAC), Society of American Travel Writers (SATW), Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), and Travel Massive. He has also been featured in publications such as Reader's Digest, Entrepreneur, Men's Journal, and Haute Living. Make sure to learn more about William Tang to find out his story and how Going Awesome Places started.

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Laura Baker says

March 8, 2023 at 11:41 PM

Thank you sooooo much for your informative guide on Southern Ireland. I truly enjoyed reading about your adventures. Keep on adventuring and sharing it with all of us!!

William Tang says

March 9, 2023 at 1:18 PM

Thanks for stopping by! You’re welcome and oh how I miss the southern part of Ireland. Hope you have an amazing time when you go!!

Sara Riobom says

June 22, 2022 at 12:21 PM

Really cool article, William. As a fellow travel blogger I am finding it hard to find really informative and honest articles to plan my trip to Ireland, and yours helped a lot. Thanks! :)

June 23, 2022 at 8:48 PM

I’m so glad Sara!!

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How To Get Around Ireland: The Pros + Cons To Cars, Tours and Public Transport

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

Deciding how to get around Ireland can be stressful.

Especially if this is your first time visiting and you don’t know the lay of the land.

Over the 34+ years that I’ve lived in Ireland I’ve travelled about by car, train bus, bike and everything in between.

The guide below leans on my many years of getting around Ireland while making every mistake imaginable along the way!

Table of Contents

Some quick need-to-knows about how to get around Ireland

Click to enlarge

Take 30 seconds to read the points below as they’ll get you up-to-speed on how to get around Ireland quickly:

1. Your options are car, bus, train, tour and tram (kinda)

Public transportation in Ireland varies by county-to-county. You’ll find all of the above in Dublin (the capital) and most ‘main’ cities and towns (e.g. Killarney) will have the first four. More info below.

2. If you’re unsure, focus on your  planned route

I’d recommend that you don’t even think about how to get around Ireland until you’ve at least mapped out a rough Ireland itinerary . The reason for this is that it may not be possible to do what you want to do  without  a car (of course, it may turn out that your road trip is completely doable via public transport).

3. There are pros and cons to every mode of transport

Most people (myself included) say that the best way to get around Ireland is by car, but there’s pros and cons to it and every mode of transportation. It’s worth weighing up the pros and cons of each as they’ll ultimately help you decide.

4. Budget will often be a decider

9 times out of 10 budget is the decider to how visitors end up travelling around Ireland. Renting a car in Ireland is often pretty expensive and, if you’re doing Ireland on a budget , the cost of your trip to Ireland will drop dramatically by using buses and trains.

The best way of getting around Ireland boils down to 3 things

Photos via Shutterstock

Deciding how to get around Ireland isn’t a decision to take lightly. Your main mode of transport, where it be a car or a bus, is going to have a massive effect on your trip.

There are three different things to consider when making your decision:

• Your experience
• Your budget
• What you want to see

1. Your experience

The biggest thing to consider about how to get around in Ireland is how the chosen mode of transport is going to affect your overall experience while travelling.

If you’re nervous behind the wheel and you’re driving in Ireland for the first time , will having to drive each day cause you stress and ruin the trip?!

Or maybe you love driving and the thoughts of driving the Ring of Kerry or the Antrim Coast will be the highlight of the trip?!

Or , if getting around Ireland needs to be as stress-free as possible for you, maybe you’re better off booking on an organised tour!

2. Your budget

Another massive consideration for when you’re trying to figure out the best way to travel around Ireland is how much money you have to spend.

Car rental can be expensive if you’re travelling solo. However, it works out nice and reasonable if you’re travelling with a group. Big group tours can be pretty good price-wise, whereas smaller tours can be expensive.

If you’re looking at ways to save money when you visit, hop into our guide to Ireland on a budget . It’s packed with easy ways to save money.

3. What you want to see

Another good way to help you pick the best way to get around Ireland is to write down all of the various places that you want to visit.

If, for example, you’re only visiting big towns or cities in Ireland , public transport will be fine (see our guide to getting around Ireland without a car ).

If you fancy visiting places off the beaten track, a rental car or a private driver (expensive) are your best bests.

At the end of the guide, I’m going to pop down a few different scenarios and recommend what I think are the best modes of transport for each example.

The pros and cons to getting around Ireland by car, tour and public transport

When deciding how to get around in Ireland, it’s worth weighing up the pros and cons to each mode of transport.

Below, you’ll find the advantages and disadvantages of getting around Ireland by bus, train, car and tour.

1. Travelling around Ireland by car

Arguably the best way to travel in Ireland is by car (it’s why our self drive Ireland tours are so popular!).

A car gives you the freedom to go where you want when you want, without having to rely on public transport or tour providers.

Getting around Ireland by car has far more advantages than disadvantages. The main advantage is freedom; being able to go where you want whenever it tickles you fancy makes this a very attractive mode of transport for many.

• Freedom and flexibility
• It makes planning a trip to Ireland more straightforward
• And you can change it as you go if you like
• It can work out cheap if there’s a group of you to share costs

Disadvantages

The biggest disadvantages of using a car for getting around Ireland is that it’ll be expensive for solo travellers and it’s likely to make the trip unnecessarily stressful for some drivers.

• If you’re on your own, it can be expensive
• If you’re a nervous driving, it can make the trip stressful

2. Getting around in Ireland using buses, trains and trams

Public transport in Ireland can be very hit and miss. It’s generally good in the main towns and cities, but services get poorer the more off-the-beaten-path you go.

Now, we’ve published hundreds of Irish road trip guides using only public transport for those of you that want to avoid the planning pains. Here are the pros and cons:

• It can be the cheapest option if you’re travelling solo and plan on getting around Ireland on a budget
• Trains and buses run frequently in the busier towns and cities in Ireland
• It can work out well if you combine it with private tours
• Public transport can be unreliable
• Trains, in particular, can be expensive if they’re not booked in advance

3. Getting around Ireland with a tour company

Another popular way for getting around Ireland is by using a tour provider that organises all-in tours of Ireland. These tend to be pretty popular and they vary in terms of group size and trip length.

One quick word of warning: if you’re booking a tour of Ireland in advance, make sure to do plenty of research in advance. Be crystal clear on what’s included and what’s left to pay for.

• They’ll do all of the hard work
• There’s no need to think about car rental, itineraries or any of that craic
• It’s less stressful
• You’ll be travelling around Ireland with a group of people that you’ll (hopefully) have a laugh with
• Most organised tours have experienced guides
• Tours, especially the larger ones, tend to be very inflexible
• They can be expensive (the smaller tours tend to be far pricier than the larger ones)
• You can get stuck with a load of people that irritate you (hopefully this won’t be the case)

4. Using a private driver

If you’re wondering how to travel around Ireland and you have a fat budget, a private driver is arguably the best way to get around Ireland.

If you fancy going down this route, do PLENTY of research – you’re going to be stuck in a very small space with this person for long periods of time – you need to find someone that’s going to enhance your experience and not hinder it.

• If you pick the right guide, you’ll tap into a wealth of knowledge
• The driver will generally follow your desired route
• A private driver is also a handy option for those of you that want to do part of a trip with a guide and part on your own
• The most expensive way of travelling around Ireland
• You need to do thorough research to ensure that you get the best bang for your buck
• If you end up getting a guide that you don’t gel with, you’ll be stuck in a very small space with them each day, which isn’t ideal

5. Combine modes of transport

The best way to get around Ireland, in my opinion, is to combine modes of transport.

This is especially useful for those of you who want to avoid car rental.

1. The public transport and organised tour combination

A combination of public transport and organised tours is going to be a solid option for those of you that can’t (or that don’t want to) rent a car.

Example : you fly into Dublin and you’re there for three nights. You can get around easily on foot and by using buses, the LUAS (a tram) and the DART (train).

You explore the city for two days and take one of the  many  day trips from Dublin (e.g. Meath).

You take a train to Galway and spend several days there. You can spend day one exploring the city. Day two on an organised tour to Connemara and day three on a day tour to Clare.

2. Rental car and public transport combination

Another solid combination is by using a rental car and public transportation. Let’s say you fly into Belfast. You spend the first day exploring the city.

Then you rent a car for a few days and drive the Causeway Coastal Route and then head on to Donegal.

Or, let’s say you fly into Shannon. You rent a car near the airport and then drive to Kerry. You explore the various peninsulas for a few days before dropping off the car and heading to Killarney.

You spend the day in the national park before taking the train to Dublin and exploring the capital. Or you could take the train to Waterford or Tipperary.

My 2 cents on picking the best way to get around Ireland

Deciding how to get around Ireland can be stressful, as it has such a massive impact on your overall trip.

The easiest way to decide the best transport type for  you  is to consider:

When you’ve taken the above into account, you’ll then want to map out a rough itinerary ( follow the steps here – they’ll remove stress from the process).

Once you have your route, you’ll be able to determine how to get around. Or, if you don’t want the hassle of planning the itinerary, follow one of our detailed road trip guides .

FAQs about how to get around in Ireland

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘How to get around Ireland on public transport?’ to ‘What’s the cheapest option?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What is the best way to get around Ireland?

In my experience, based on 33 years of living here, the best way to get around Ireland is by car. However, if you’re only visiting main towns and cities, you could easily use public transport.

Is it easy to get around in Ireland?

Yes and no. For example, without a car, getting around Donegal can be a nightmare. With a car, you’ll have no hassle. Main towns and cities are well served by buses, also.

What is the cheapest way to travel around Ireland?

If you’re looking to keep costs low, getting around Ireland via buses and trains is the cheapest option. You can reduce costs further by booking tickets in advance.

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 35 years and has spent most of the last 10 creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries . Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Kevin, Shelley, Aidan and Josh

Monday 6th of March 2023

My wife and I are coming to Ireland for 2 weeks at the end of July with our two teenage boys. Our first four day are in Dublin using public transportation. Then we would like to tour, at a pace that is our own, without having to be on a schedule with booked B and B's or hotels. What we are pondering is renting a camper van for our time outside Dublin. Is using a camper van a viable option, if so would you recommend a maximum size of camper van in width or legnth?

Keith O'Hara

Hey! Yep, plenty of people travel about by camper and, if you're used to driving one, then it's worth considering. It's just worth keeping in mind that there are restrictions about where you can park it up.

Mary Hankins

Tuesday 22nd of March 2022

Planning a trip in the Spring of 2023. So far plans include landing in Shannon, 2 days sightseeing Galway area, then on to Kenmare and seeing Ring of Kerry and the Beara Peninsula. Beara is primary objective as mother was born and raised there. However can't clarify if there's bus service to Kenmare or service from Kenmore to Castletownbere. Is there? Will have approx 2 weeks to sightsee and visit, cant decide if a car will be doable for second week. Your thoughts please.

Hey Mary! From what I can tell, you'd need to take a bus (the 286) from Castletownbere to Glengarriff and then take another from Glengarriff (the R51a) to Kenmare. When you say that you can't decide if a car will be doable, what do you mean?

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Luxury estate, nestled in 21 acres of lush green Meath countryside. The Georgian mansion which welcomes visitors today was originally built in 1764, on the same site as the original castle. Though it’s been extensively refurbished in the centuries since, it retains the charm of the era it was built in. A sweeping tree lined drive and manicured gardens offer a grand approach, while on the interior, pretty stucco plasterwork cornices decorate the halls and chandeliers glitter from ceiling.

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Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny

With a stunning outdoor infinity pool, a hot tub, and an Aveda spa, Newpark Hotel is 10 minutes’ walk from Kilkenny center. The house is set within 40 acres of parkland and beautiful gardens. The leisure club at the Newpark offers an indoor pool, a spacious sauna, and a steam room. Guests can exercise in the modern gym, and Escape Spa provides a range of relaxing Aveda treatments.

Newpark Hotel

• 24-hour Room Service

Killarney Towers Hotel, Killarney

The Killarney Towers Hotel is the perfect location from which to explore the excitement and culture of Killarney Town. From its town centre location, guests can explore all that The Kingdom has to offer including boat trips to The Gap of Dunloe, exploring Muckross House & Gardens, playing a round of golf in some of the worlds most scenic golf courses, or venturing further afield along the famous Ring of Kerry and Wild Atlantic Way.

Killarney Towers Hotel

Salthill Hotel, Galway

Overlooking the famous Salthill Promenade, Galway Bay and the Clare Hills, this elegant hotel features a 100 feet swimming pool, a whirlpool, a full Irish breakfasts served each day, and a large gym. Just 0.6 miles from Galway city center, it is set in Galway’s beautiful countryside on the scenic route to Connemara National Park. Some rooms also enjoy beautiful sea views.

Salthill Hotel

Radisson Blu Royal Hotel - Dublin, Dublin

This stylish hotel is close to many popular attractions in Dublin. The modern hotel rooms boast excellent views of the city. Start your day with a satisfying Super Breakfast Buffet at the on-site V’nV Restaurant, and have drinks at one of 3 stylish bars.

Radisson Blu Royal Hotel Exterior

Family Bedroom

Standard Bedroom

Vn'V Restaurant

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Ring of Kerry

Grand homes, star-strewn skies and inspiring landscapes: welcome to the Ring of Kerry.

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Skellig Ring, County Kerry

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The spirit of Kerry

Rolling green hills and sparkling lakes. Sheep bleating and cows grazing in patchwork fields. Pristine golden strands giving way to jaw-dropping cliffs. This treasure trove in the southwest coast of Ireland really has it all, which is why people come from far and wide to see the Ring of Kerry.

This scene-stealing route around the Iveragh Peninsula, beginning and ending in Killarney, takes in all the big hitters – Moll’s Gap, Torc Waterfall and the Gap of Dunloe are winners – but really, the route itself is so much more than the sum of its parts. Within this 179km of road, you’ll find that each turn brings a new treat to the eye, from lakes, rivers and waterfalls, to grand houses and castles. If you’re feeling adventurous, the Ring of Kerry cycling route is one of Ireland’s most famous, and there is really nothing like breathing in the fresh Kerry air as you drink up the incredible views around you.

L-R: Ross Castle, Killarney; a jaunting car in the Killarney National Park; Torc Waterfall; a horse stands by a traditional stone wall

Brilliant beaches

This part of County Kerry is known for its pristine stretches of white, sandy beaches. Derrynane, Rossbeigh and St Finian's Bay are some of the most stunning, each strand a beautiful border between the glinting ocean and mountains of the Iveragh Peninsula.

St Finian's Bay, County Kerry

Top 10 things to do

Seafood fresh off the boat, a 6th century monastery and a town where a goat is crowned king – these are 10 things not to miss when traveling the Ring of Kerry...

Top things to do

Views fit for a queen

There’s a story behind the stunning "Ladies View" at the Lakes of Killarney – when Queen Victoria visited the Ring of Kerry in 1861, this spot was a favorite of her ladies-in-waiting. And the grandeur doesn’t stop at the scenery: sleeping on the edges of the world-famous lakes sits Muckross House & Gardens . This 19th century mansion, along with its lush gardens, became Ireland’s first National Park in 1932. Inside is luxury on another level, and upstairs you can even enter the perfectly preserved room that housed Queen Victoria during her famous stay!

Ladies View, Killarney, County Kerry

3 colorful towns to visit

Neat colorful houses line the streets of this pretty village that is bursting with rural charm.

Smart galleries and old-world pubs, traditional charm mixes with contemporary cool in this atmospheric town.

Backed by deep green mountains and facing the Atlantic Ocean, this coastal village is the ideal place to relax.

The mystical beauty of this part of the island has enchanted some unexpected visitors in its time. The Skellig Ring, just off the main route of the Ring of Kerry, was given a starring role in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. In the pretty village of Portmagee, the cast and crew were received by the locals as they welcome all their visitors: with a warm reception, a hot meal and some rousing traditional music!

I can’t believe they let us shoot there – it was so beautiful! J.J. Abrams, Star Wars director

Star Wars in Kerry

You don’t have to travel to a galaxy far, far away to discover a landscape that is truly out of this world. Just ask the makers of Star Wars.

On the Ring of Kerry, you really are far away from the hustle and bustle of life. So remote and tranquil is this area, that it is home to one of just three Gold Tier International Dark Sky Reserves on the planet – and the only one in the northern hemisphere. Under a canopy of twinkling lights, you can make as many wishes as you like...

Ballinskelligs, County Kerry

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Wild Atlantic Way

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Ring of Kerry highlights

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Derrynane House, National Historic Park

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Murphy's of Killarney

Accommodation

Dromquinna Manor

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Avoca Handweavers Molls Gap

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Killarney Rent a Bike

The Skellig Experience

Killarney National Park

Quinlan's Seafood Bar

Derrynane House is the ancestral home of Daniel O'Connell, lawyer, politician and statesman (6 Augu...

One of Killarney’s most famous bars, established in 1955, Murphy’s Bar is a traditional Irish pub of world renown, conveniently located on College Street. The pub serves an extensive menu and the finest pint of Guinness in Kerry.

Dromquinna Manor is a hotel located on a country estate overlooking Kenmare Bay in Co Kerry. A stunning waterfront wedding venue for up to 170 guests, The Manor, dating from 1885, is simply charming.

Killarney Brewing Taproom, located in the heart of Killarney town, County Kerry, is housed in the original Killarney mineral water drinks facility. Their brewers, Killarney Brewing and Distilling Company, are given creative freedom to experiment with limited edition and small batch brews.

Seafood restaurant with Craft Ale & Wine Bar situated in Kenmare, Co. Kerry.

Visit Tina Reed Artist in her studio on Sherkin Island, County Cork, or come to her summer exhibition at the Community Hall on Sherkin, the island of the arts.

Killarney Rent a Bike have a small number of rental outlets in Killarney, County Kerry.

This heritage centre tells the story of the Skellig Rocks. Learn about the monks who lived on these desolate rocks, the seabirds, the nearby lighthouses and the marine life of the Skelligs.

Make your way to the internationally renowned Killarney National Park, in County Kerry. Come here for the scenic beauty with 10,000 hectares of stunning lakes, mountains and woods.

Quinlan's Seafood Bar, located in the centre of Killarney town, will tempt diners with fresh seasonal fish and seafood in a casual elegant setting, as well as offering takeaway options.

Getting to the Ring of Kerry

Fly to Cork, Shannon or Kerry and you’re almost there. Or head to Dublin or Belfast and take the scenic cross-country route. Coming by ferry? Cork and Rosslare are your closest ports. But Dublin is a pretty easy distance.

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• Local & State

Resurgam festival, a massive yard sale and more things to do this weekend

Comedian Dave Attell is in town, Zephyr Ice is serving up cool treats and food trucks are out in force (there's an app that will tell you where).

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We’re not entirely sure how the weekend weather is going to shake out, but either way there’s a whole lot going on, so let’s get to it.

Maine Roller Derby skaters competing at Happy Wheels Skate Center in Westbrook. Photo by Jim Vernier

On Saturday and Sunday, Maine Roller Derby’s first international tournament happens at Happy Wheels Skate Center in Westbrook. There will be several exciting flat-track bouts, and if you’re a Mainer, tickets are half off.

Get a discount on tickets to Maine Roller Derby’s international tournament

Max Abraham runs through Moon Tide Park while performing with the band Corpus Chicanery at last year’s Resurgam festival. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

The Resurgam Music and Arts Festival is Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Ocean Gateway marine terminal and surrounding areas. The list of performers is about 17 miles long and includes Oshima Brothers Band and professional hula hoop and circus artist Nettie Loops.

Resurgam festival returns this weekend with music, arts and more

Local musician Toby McAllister, pictured here at The Press Room in Portsmouth, would of course play at a local venue on his perfect day. Photo by Corey Fitzgerald and courtesy of Toby McAllister

Another musician you can see at Resurgam is Toby McAllister from Sparks The Rescue. McAllister unpacked his perfect Maine day for us, and it includes a hike in Grafton Notch and a stop at Puzzle Mountain Bakery in Newry for cookies.

My Perfect Day: Hiking Old Speck, eating tacos and sweets, playing a show – for musician Toby McAllister, it all strikes a chord

Comic Dave Attell plays the State Theatre in Portland, June 8. Photo courtesy of the State Theatre

There’s plenty else cooking this weekend , including Yoga in the Park on Saturday and the Walk the Working Waterfront tour. Both are in Portland. Or you can shop till you drop at Maine’s Ultimate Spring Yard Sale Saturday at Cumberland Fairgrounds. Need a few laughs? Grab a ticket to see comic Dave Attell at the State Theatre Saturday.

Waterfront tour, giant yard sale, comic Dave Attell

Zephyr proudly tells its customers that everything is made in house with real fruit and no dyes. Photo by Megan Gray

Satisfy your sweet tooth with something a little different this weekend. Zephyr Ice in Portland serves shaved ice atop a scoop of regular or vegan ice cream. Choose from a variety of syrup flavors, all made in-house with real fruit.

For cool, customizable treats, breeze on in to Zephyr Ice

Mainely Burgers food truck. Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Staff Photographer

Should you fancy a food truck fix, check out our massive, always growing food truck guide and get busy chowing down.

A guide to 87 food trucks rolling through Maine

A Foodtruckalico Instagram post featuring the Ugly Dumpling food truck. Photo by Justin Velgos

For even more food truck fodder, we suggest heading to Food Truckalico on Instagram . A couple of times a week, the account shares details about where and when you can find trucks in the Portland area.

Follow the food trucks with Food Truckalico on Instagram

A newspaper article about a Comegato sighting from web series “Tracking the Comegato.” Photo courtesy of Kate Kaminski

If the weather does indeed relegate you to the indoors, curl up on the couch and fire up the new web series “Tracking the Comegato” about a beastly human-weasel hybrid that may or may not exist.

Could this human-weasel hybrid from Maine join the ranks of Bigfoot?

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