southern ireland driving tour

• Southern Tour 10 Night

This driving tour package includes time in some of the most historical and picturesque areas of the southern half of the country.

• Tour Attractions

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Book any of our wonderful self-drive vacation packages before the 30th of April 2024 to receive a 15% discount off your tour price! This offer cannot be used in conjunction with other discounts or special event packages.

Tour Overview

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This driving tour of Ireland includes time in some of the most historical and picturesque areas of the southern half of the country. 

The first 4 nights will be spent in the south eastern counties of Wicklow, Wexford & Waterford where you will have the opportunity to visit attractions such as The Monastic settlement at Glendalough and Powerscourt Gardens in Wicklow, the Dunbrody Famine Ship and The Kennedy Homestead in Wexford and the Waterford Crystal Factory and Lismore Gardens in Waterford.

In Cork and Kerry where you will be able to Kiss the Blarney Stone and visit attractions such as the Cobh Heritage Centre, the Midleton Jameson Distillery, the Ring of Kerry and of course the beautiful Dingle Peninsula. From here you will be travelling north along the west coast of Ireland including visits to the Cliffs of Moher and Burren region in County Clare.

By day, enjoy some of the most beautiful landscapes of Ireland. By night rest your weary bones by a roaring turf fire, accompanied by superb traditional Irish music in one of a myriad of welcoming pubs.

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

Bunratty castle & folk park, cliffs of moher, cobh heritage centre, dingle peninsula, gap of dunloe.

• Ring of Kerry
• Titanic Walk
• Desmond Castle & Wine Museum
• Avondale House & Forest Park
• Garnish Island
• Blarney Castle
• Dunbrody Famine Ship
• Hook Lighthouse Centre
• House of Waterford Crystal
• Hook Lighthouse Visitor Centre
• Glendalough

Muckross House, Gardens & Traditional Farms

• Powerscourt House & Gardens

Overnights for this tour

• County Wicklow for 1 Night
• County Wexford for 2 Nights
• Waterford for 1 Night
• Kinsale, County Cork for 2 Nights
• Killarney, County Kerry for 2 Nights
• Dingle, County Kerry for 1 Night
• County Clare for the last 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 - dublin to wicklow via glendalough.

Upon collection of your rental car, you will be traveling south through County Wicklow, also known as the ‘Garden of Ireland’. First stop will be Powerscourt House & Gardens. Surrounding this 18th Century Palladian House in the foothills of the Wicklow Mountains, you will find a sublime blend of formal gardens, sweeping terraces, statuary and ornamental lakes together with secret hollows, rambling walks and over 200 varieties of trees and shrubs. Shortly after this, you will arrive at the ancient monastic settlement at Glendalough. Glendalough “the glen of the two lakes” is a truly spellbinding place - an ancient monastic settlement and two clear water lakes beneath the sheer cliffs of a deep valley, which was carved out by glaciers during the Ice Age. The monastic settlement has been a centre for pilgrims and visitors since its foundation by St. Kevin in the 6th century. From here, follow the signs for Avondale House. Built in 1779 Avondale House is set in the spectacular surroundings of Avondale Forest Park, now a museum to the memory of one of the greatest political leaders of modern Irish history, Charles Stewart Parnell, who was born in Avondale on 27th June, 1846. Continue on to Avoca where you will find the Avoca Handweavers factory, famed worldwide for the quality of its woven fabrics. As well as visiting its shop, you will be able to take a tour of the factory in this most picturesque of villages. The village was also the setting for the top television series “Ballykissangel”.

Day 2 - Wicklow to Wexford

Leaving Arklow, travel to Enniscorthy in the neighboring county of Wexford. Enniscorthy is an old Norman settlement and is situated on the banks of the River Slaney overlooked by the old 1798 battle site of Vinegar Hill. Dominating the town is the Norman Castle which was completed in 1205 and now houses the County Wexford Folk Museum. The museum gives special emphasis to the part played by the local community in the battles fought against English Rule. From Enniscorthy, head to Wexford Town. This coastal region is rich in heritage sites, tranquil villages, breathtaking scenery and warm hospitality. First stop on this journey would be at the Irish National Heritage Park. The Park features replications of Irish homesteads, burial and worship sites, and takes the visitor on tour through 9,000 years of Irish history. From Wexford town travel on through Wellington Bridge from where you can look across Bannow Bay to the ruins of Clonmines, a Norman village established in the 13th century. This is one of the finest examples of a walled medieval settlement in Ireland, with remains of two churches, three tower houses, and an Augustinian priory.

Day 3 - Wexford Sightseeing

Today visit Tintern Abbey. The abbey was founded by the monks of Tintern in South Wales in the 13th century. The grounds are beautiful and contain a restored stone bridge that spans a narrow sea inlet. Also in this area you will find Baginbun Head nestled against the cliffs. Here, the Norman presence in Ireland was first established with the victory of Norman forces over the Irish at the Battle of Baginbun. At the tip of the peninsula is Hook Lighthouse from the early 13th century. It is thought to be one of the oldest operational lighthouses in the world. On a promontory overlooking the town of Duncannon is a fort built in 1588 to protect Waterford Harbour from the threat of attack by the Spanish Armada. Dunbrody Abbey, founded in 1170, is a magnificent ruin and one of the largest Cistercian abbeys in Ireland. After the Abbey, you may wish to visit to the Kennedy Homestead in Dunganstown just south of New Ross. The Kennedy Homestead , birthplace of President John F. Kennedy’s great-grandfather Patrick Kennedy, celebrates the story of five generations of the Kennedy dynasty and is still farmed today by his descendants. Joining the multitudes of Irish fleeing the Great Famine, Patrick Kennedy departed from this homestead for the port of New Ross on a wet day in 1848 to set sail for the United States.

Day 4 - Wexford to Waterford & Waterford Sightseeing

Traveling down to New Ross, it is well worth stopping at the Dunbrody Famine Ship. The Visitor Experience provides a unique, authentic re-creation from a period in history which shaped modern day America and Ireland. Visitors climb the gangplank to the main deck of the Dunbrody. They descend a companionway to enter the quarters of the captain and mate and the stateroom assigned to important passengers. Continue to Waterford and the major sights in Waterford include the Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre, a retail outlet and visitor centre in the heart of Waterford city which employs 80-90 full-time staff at the facility, a number of whom will be highly skilled local craftsmen. Make sure to visit the Waterford Museum of Treasures which tells the 1000-year-story of Waterford from the treasures of Viking Waterford at Reginald's Tower, the oldest civic urban building in Ireland, to the story of Georgian Waterford at the Bishop's Palace from 1700 to 1970. The newly restored Bishop's Palace charts the history of Waterford from 1700 to 1970 and gives a wonderful insight into the history of what was up to the 1750s, Ireland’s second city.

Day 5 - Waterford to Kinsale & Kinsale Sightseeing

Travel first to Youghal, famous for its point lace (point d'Irlande) which is distinguished by its vivid patterns as well as the fact that the film ‘Moby Dick’ starring Gregory Peck was filmed here in 1956. After Youghal, you will travel to the village of Cobh, situated on one of the world’s largest natural harbours. It was the last port of call for the ill-fated Titanic in 1912 and was the closest port to the site of the sinking of the Lusitania in 1915. The heritage centre sympathetically recounts these events and tells the story of emigration from Ireland to the United States and Australia from the time of the famine in 1847 up to the 1950s. A stop to climb to the Blarney Castle ramparts to ‘Kiss the Blarney Stone’, said to bestow the gift of eloquence, and is a must for those who dare. On to Kinsale. Kinsale is a delightful harbour town that has retained its old world charm and character despite being well developed from a tourism point of view with its beautiful waterside location, local facilities including a yacht marina and historic buildings such as Desmond Castle and Market House as well as Charles Fort overlooking the sea and town. Kinsale styles itself as the gourmet capital of Ireland, boasting numerous excellent restaurants and atmospheric traditional pubs.

Day 6 - Kinsale & Surrounds

Kinsale prides itself to be the gourmet capital of Ireland, boasting abundant superb restaurants and atmospheric traditional pubs. A great deal of your vacation time could indeed be spent in Kinsale itself but if you wish to venture out further afield, your Irish Tourism tailor-made itinerary will help you do just that!  If you did not have a chance to visit the following of Kinsale's major attractions, make sure to include them today. Desmond Castle and the International Museum of Wine , which was built in about 1500, had many uses. In 1600 and 1601 it was used as an arsenal by Don Juan Aguilla during the Spanish occupation of the town which lasted for 100 days prior to the Battle of Kinsale in 1601. In the 17th century the castle became popularly known as the "French prison" and was used for prisoners of war, most of whom were captured at sea. During the American war of Independence, the crews of many American vessels were held prisoner in Kinsale in poor conditions. Other notable attractions include Charles Fort , the 17th Century star-shaped fort. St. Multose Church is well worth a visit and was built in 1190. The Courthouse and Regional Museum in was used for ceremonial occasions in the 18th century. In 1915, the Courthouse was used for the inquest into the sinking of the Lusitania. The Regional Museum is now housed in the Courthouse.

Day 7 - Kinsale to Kerry

Today you have the option of the scenic but longer coastal route or the shorter route via Blarney Castle. The longer route includes visits to Mizen Head, the southernmost point in Ireland, as well as Bantry House and Gardens and the French Armada Centre, also in Bantry. From Bantry, you will be heading north to Killarney via the Healy Pass. Have your cameras at the ready for some breathtaking scenery across the Caha Mountains that divide Cork from Kerry. After the mountain pass, you come to the town of Kenmare . The town was founded in 1670 by Sir William Petty and has a history of lace making, demonstrations of which can be seen at the town’s Heritage Centre. The alternative route for today’s journey is a shorter one. First stop is the famed Blarney Castle where a climb to the ramparts to kiss the Blarney Stone is said to bestowe the gift of eloquence, otherwise known as ‘the Gift of the Gab’. From there it is straight to Killarney. With its three famous lakes and majestic mountain ranges, Killarney has been the inspiration of poets and painters over many centuries. The Killarney National Park is internationally renowned both for its scenic beauty and scientific interest. There are many walks and trails around Killarney including a 2-hour tourist trail around the town itself. You will also have a chance to visit Ross Castle , the Gap of Dunloe or simply take a stroll through the streets of this quaint town to enjoy the great pubs and enjoy the traditional Irish music on offer.

Day 8 - Killarney Sightseeing & Ring of Kerry

On everyone’s bucket list while in Killarney is to discover the Ring of Kerry through a 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 an optional snack at Lord Brandon’s Cottage, you will return to Killarney by boat via the beautiful lakes of Killarney.

Day 9 - Killarney to Dingle & Dingle Sightseeing

Travel to the fishing town of Dingle today as well as the dramatic Dingle Peninsula. The Dingle Peninsula has more interesting antiquities, historic sites and varied mountain scenery than any other part of Ireland. Dingle is the most westerly town in Europe and attracts large numbers of visitors each year, many of whom come to learn the Irish language in the surrounding ‘A Flor-Gaeltacht' – Irish speaking district. On route stop in the village of Annascaul, the birth place of Jerome Connor, the famous sculptor, and Tom Crean, a local hero who accompanied Scott and Shackleton on three Antarctic expeditions, including Scott’s doomed attempt to reach the South Pole. On his return to Annascaul Crean opened the "South Pole Inn", which is still in business today. Minard Castle is also well worth a visit. The castle is said to have been built by the Knight of Kerry and is the largest fortress on the peninsula. Continue on past Dingle and visit Dunbeag Promontory Fort. What makes it one of the most dramatic archaeological sites on the peninsula is that results show that it was begun in the late Bronze Age, 800 BC. Continue on to Slea Head and here you will see Dun An Oir (Fort of Gold. Here in 1580, after three days siege, over 600 Irish and Spanish soldiers surrendered to Lord Grey only to be massacred by his troops. Nearby is the Gallarus Oratory, one of the best preserved early Christian church buildings in Ireland. Back to Dingle for the evening. Here you will find among other great pubs and restaurants, Dick Macks, possibly Dingle’s most famous pub, which is half a leather shop and half a pub so you can buy a pint and a purse at the same time! Foxy John’s is a hardware store and pub combined – an unusual arrangement to say the least.

Day 10 - Dingle to Doolin

One of the most dramatic days of your tour brings you from Dingle to the west coast of County Clare. First stop will be the Village of Adare in County Limerick. Adare is regarded by many a seasoned traveller as Ireland’s prettiest village with its charming thatched cottages, manicured public park and ancient church. From Adare continue towards Limerick City of ‘Angela’s Ashes’ fame and home to King Johns Castle. Shortly after this, you arrive at Bunratty Castle. Built in 1425, this majestic castle was restored in 1954 to its former medieval splendour. Within the grounds of the Castle is Bunratty Folk Park where 19th century Irish life is vividly recreated. Continuing on to the magnificent ‘Cliffs of Moher’. The majestic Cliffs of Moher are without doubt one of Ireland’s most spectacular sights and overlook the Atlantic Ocean on the coast of West Clare. You then arrive at the village of Doolin. Doolin is world-famous for its wealth of Irish folk music and in recent years has been attracting crowds to spontaneous sessions in any one of its excellent pubs. Just north of the Cliffs you then have the lunar like Burren region and the ancient Poulnabrone Dolmen Tombs.

Tour attractions

Bunratty Castle is now a very popular tourist attraction. The interior has been furnished by Lord Gort with tapestries & artifacts from various eras in the history

The Burren is a unique karst-landscape region in northwest County Clare, in Ireland and one of the largest Karst landscapes in Europe.

The Cliffs of Moher boast one of Ireland's most spectacular views On a clear day the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay as are the valleys and hills of Connemara.

The Cobh Heritage Centre provides information on life in Ireland through the 18th and 19th centuries, the mass emigration, the Great Famine, and on how criminals were transported...

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 ...

Doolin is small fishing village on a sandy bay world-famous for its wealth of Irish music & has been attracting crowds to spontaneous sessions and festivals. Overlooked by Doonag...

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...

This little town is world-famous due to its exquisite location beside lakes and mountains.Take a horse-drawn jaunting car ride through the grounds of the Killarney National Park ...

This nineteenth century Victorian mansion is set against the stunning beauty of Killarney National Park. The house stands close to the shores of Muckross Lake, one of Killarney's...

Tour Prices

Below, you will find a price for this self drive tour including your car rental. 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 RENTAL 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 6 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.

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

Last Updated March 26, 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.

Other gear that I recommend for a trip to visit Ireland .

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.

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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% .

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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.

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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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The BEST 7-Day Southern Ireland Itinerary

Posted on September 29, 2023 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on October 13, 2023

I’ve recently returned from an epic first trip in Ireland where I was blessed with almost non-stop sunshine. Road-tripping around the country, I was able to explore Ireland’s top attractions as well as plenty of hidden gems. I share below my 7-day itinerary for the southern part of the country.

This 1-week itinerary will take you through Southern Ireland’s iconic destinations such as the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and Killarney National Park, as well as less-known places where you can escape the crowds. I’ll give you also a couple of alternatives so you can pick what’s best for you.

While it’s possible to reach most of these places by public transportation, add a couple more days to complete the itinerary if you’re not driving or remove a few places.

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Planning a trip to Ireland

I recommend renting a car for your trip, especially if you just have 7 days. While you can visit Southern Ireland using a blend of public transportation and tours, having a car will give you the freedom to go everywhere and see more places in a shorter time frame.

I’ve tried to pick the best places to visit in Southern Ireland for this itinerary and provided alternatives to consider depending on the season and what you like doing. As Ireland is a small country, distances are short so you can easily skip a place or add another.

This 7-day Southern Ireland itinerary will take you through all of the region’s highlights and popular attractions, with a couple of hidden gems along the way. I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Ireland – let me know how it went!

Tip – No matter what season you visit, make sure to pack layers and be ready for sunshine and rain.

If you want to save money on accommodation , try to book as early as you can. When planning ahead, you can find rooms at Airbnbs for under USD 50, while last minute, you’ll be lucky to find something under 100. However, booking last minute gives you the freedom to adapt your itinerary as you go.

Try to always have snacks and water with you as you might not always be near a store.

7-Day Southern Ireland Itinerary

Day 1 – cliffs of moher and burren national park.

Start your first day seeing the majestic Cliffs of Moher , a must-see destination in Ireland. You have different options for visiting the cliffs depending on how much you want to walk.

The most comfortable option is to take a cruise and see the cliffs from below. It’s also a great option if it’s raining or if you suffer from vertigo. Cruises last around an hour, leave several times a day from Doolin, and operate from April to October.

You can then head to the visitor center (feel free to skip the cruise) where you can take a short walk to the viewpoints.

If you like hiking, the Doolin Cliff Walk is considered one of the most scenic trails in Ireland. The full hike runs over 10 miles (15 kilometers) from Doolin to Hags Head, with the visitor center more or less in the middle. You can hike all or part of it.

Before going, I had read online that during summer there’s a shuttle between Doolin and Hag’s Head , passing by the visitor center, I couldn’t find any info on the official website, so I didn’t risk it. However, if you’re interested in doing the full hike, either try to call the visitor center or stop there on your way to Doolin.

Next, head to Burren National Park for another epic hike surrounded by otherworldly landscapes . The Burren is one of my favorite places in Ireland because of its uniqueness, I don’t think there’s any other place on earth that looks like that – there are circular patterns on the hills and mountains , and the more you go up the more you can see them.

There are several hikes you can do depending on how much time you have and your fitness level. Most trails start at Gortlecka Crossroads where you can park and see a map of the trails. I did the Blue Trail and I highly recommend it.

The trail goes up quite a lot but you’ll be rewarded with incredible views. The 4.7-mile loop takes around  3 hours to complete.

Depending on how you are planning your trip to Ireland, you might not have the time to visit both if you arrive mid-day. You can either skip the Burren and head straight to the cliffs or do the hike in the Burren early the next morning.

They are close to each other so you might be able to fit both into a half day , especially towards summer when days are longer.

Depending on the time you finish your day, you can spend the night in either Ennis, Limerick, or better, Tralee.

Day 2 – Dingle Peninsula

On day 2 of your Southern Ireland itinerary, drive around the stunning Dingle Peninsula . Offering spectacular views, quaint towns, and ancient ruins, the Dingle Peninsula has it all.

Start your day with an easy stroll around Lough Carun in Glanteenassig Forest Park , then head to the longest beach in the country, Fermoyle Beach . You can drive all the way to Fahamore, where you can get a coffee, and stroll along the beach.

Next, head to Brandon Point for stunning views and a chance to spot dolphins. Go back on your track, to drive the iconic Conor Pass – make sure to stop at Peddler’s Lake , you’ll have to climb up a bit but it’s worth it – all the way to Dingle where you can have lunch.

From there, start on the Slea Head Drive with stops at Cashel Murphy, Dunmore Head, Clogher Strand, and the Gallarus Oratory.

If you have extra time you can add a hike to your day’s itinerary or start on the Ring of Kerry. Otherwise, you can spend the night in Dingle or head back to Tralee.

Day 3 – Ring of Kerry

Probably the most popular road trip in the country , the Ring of Kerry is full of interesting sights and places to visit.

Start your exploration at Kerry Bog Village , a living history museum where you can get a glimpse at what life looked like in a 19th-century Irish village .

Keep driving along the coast and take a detour to see the Cahergall Stone Fort before taking a short ferry ride to Valentia Island where you can see the lighthouse and stop by the Skellig Experience Visitor Center .

You can then have lunch in the charming town of Portmagee before heading to Kerry Cliffs where some spectacular scenery awaits.

In Ballinskelligs , make a stop to tour the ruins of the castle and the abbey. Along the coast, the Derrynane House is a great place to learn more about Irish history while the Staigue Stone Fort offers stunning views over the valley.

End the day in Kenmare , where you can enjoy a stroll around town and maybe a meal.

I recommend spending the night in Kenmare unless you still have about 2 hours of sunlight left so you can enjoy driving through the park to Killarney Town. Take the scenic road through the Gap of Dunloe and spend the night in Killarney. Otherwise, just do this drive the next morning.

Another option is to not linger too much driving around the Dingle Peninsula, so you can do the first part of the Ring of Kerry on day 3, spend the night in Portmagee, and on day 4 visit the famous Skellig Michael (possible from May to September), finish the loop then head to Killarney.

Day 4 – Killarney National Park

Killarney is one of my favorite places in Ireland. Even though it’s pretty crowded, there are tons of things to explore and places to visit where you can find yourself alone. Plan to spend a full day there, driving around, hiking, and visiting the estates.

If the weather is nice, hop on a kayak to explore the lake and find a quiet spot – otherwise, book a boat trip around the lake.

There are also plenty of hikes for all levels from easy strolls to higher intensity trails. As most of the hikes are short (under 2 hours), it’s easy to fit one or two into your schedule.

The Old Kenmare Road hike is one I recommend, it takes around 2 hours and you’ll pass by one of the park’s highlights, Torc Waterfalls .

For stunning views along the lake, check out the Mass Path , going from Derrycunnihy Church to Lord Brandon’s Cottage.

If hiking is not your thing, you’ll enjoy driving around the park and stopping by some of the many viewpoints you’ll find scattered throughout the park. Don’t miss driving through the Gap of Dunloe .

And, of course, you can’t visit Killarney without visiting the iconic Muckross House and Ross Castle.

Depending on when you finish your exploration, you can either spend the night in Killarney or head to the next stop, Kinsale – you can also spend the night in Cork if you prefer.

Day 5 – Kinsale, Cork, and Blarney Castle

On day 5, start your day with a stroll around the charming port town of Kinsale . Known as the gourmet capital of Ireland , the city offers a diverse culinary scene from unpretentious food stalls to a Michelin-stared restaurant. Fishy Fishy, Man Friday, and The Bulman are locals’ favorites.

The town is also filled with cafes offering all sorts of tasty pastries, pies, and cakes.

If you want to learn more about the area’s history, head to the Kinsale Museum housed in the 16th-century Town Hall. A bit outside of town, don’t miss touring Charles Fort .

Once you’re done in Kinsale, head to Blarney Castle to tour the castle and the gardens. And, of course, don’t forget to kiss the Blarney Stone , believed to grant the gift of gab (note that the line to kiss the stone can be loonnnggg). If it’s something you really want to do, I’d advise you to start your day with Blarney then.

Next, head to Cork where you can stroll around the downtown area as well. Some of the best places to visit there include the English Market, the Butter Museum, St Anne Church, University College Cork, and St Fin Barre’s Cathedral . If you’re hungry try the potato pie at the popular Jackie Lennox’s .

Close to Cork, you can  learn more about the Titanic at the  Cobh Heritage Centre  from where the vessel departed and at the  Titanic Experience Cobh , which offers experiential exhibits on the Titanic and its sinking.

Spend the night in Cork or somewhere in the countryside closer to Cashel.

Day 6 – Rock of Cashel and Kilkenny

A must-add to your 7-day southern Ireland itinerary, Rock of Cashel is one of the highlights of the Emerald Isle. The castle offers over 1,000 years of history with traces of different time periods. Set on top of a hill, make sure to get to a viewpoint a bit further out for nice views of the castle.

You can take a guided tour inside the castle or visit on your own . If you want to enter the 12th-century Cormac’s Chapel, you’ll need to go on a tour, there’s a set schedule, so make sure to check it out before going there.

Once you’re done with the castle, head to Kilkenny , a beautiful medieval town and a tourists’ hot spot. Even though it’s touristy, the city is a must-visit. Start by the castle then maybe tour the St Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum and Rothe House.

It’s a great town to just stroll around and get lost in small streets . For something fun, take a brewery tour and tasting at Smithwick’s Experience .

You can spend the night in Kilkenny and enjoy a night out at one of the city’s many pubs and bars.

Day 7 – Copper Coast and Beach Hopping

One of the best places to visit in South East Ireland , the Copper Coast is a UNESCO global geopark and features stunning rock formations and beautiful beaches. Start your day with a short hike to Mahon Falls then rent a bike at O’Mahonny’s Pub and cycle the Waterford Greenway along the coast.

You can decide to spend your day there, spending time at some of the beaches you’ll find along the way. Otherwise, continue driving along the Southern coast . You can rent kayaks in Hook Head , hike the Furlongs Road Loop , or visit popular beaches like Curracloe and Ballymoney . If you like bird watching, consider cruising to the Saltee Islands .

Depending on when your flight back is, you can skip this part or just visit the Copper Coast and head to wherever you’re catching your flight back afterward.

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Magical Southern 5-Day Ireland Tour

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One of our best Southern Ireland tours!

In many ways, this 5-day Ireland tour can be considered one of our best as it manages to fit so much into just five days. If you’re only in our beautiful country for a short amount of time, then this Magical Southern 5-day Tour might be the perfect option for you.

As a Jewel Tour, it’s designed to move at a slower, smoother pace, but there are still plenty of wonderful experiences to enjoy. Your guided tour of Southern Ireland will set out from Dublin. Leave the bustling streets and city noise behind as you journey towards the wonderful Wild Atlantic Way.

If this Southern Ireland tour interests you, but you’re looking for something a little longer, check out our Ireland to Island 7-Day Tour (which includes an optional trip to Skellig Michael). And if you’re looking for the trip of a lifetime, check out The Ultimate Ireland 10-Day Tour Package . Overland Ireland’s expert local guides will ensure you have the best Ireland tour possible, exploring everything from bohemian Galway to the gorgeous Dingle Bay!

We get such impressive reviews for a good reason, primarily because our local guides have unmatched knowledge and know how to look after and entertain our guests. You’re here to have the Irish vacation of a lifetime, and we do our best to ensure you get exactly what you want!

A 5-Day Best of Southern Ireland Tour Packed With Incredible Experiences

This 5-day Ireland tour is brimming with fun and interesting things to do. Take in the jaw-dropping sights and sounds of the Ring of Kerry, a stunning part of Ireland. (For the complete Ring of Kerry experience, check out our Ireland to Island tour ).

You’ll see some of Ireland’s most famous sights, such as Moll’s Gap, Ladies’ View, and Killarney National Park. You’ll even have the opportunity to kayak in Dingle Bay! You will also visit one of Ireland’s most iconic landmarks: The Cliffs of Moher. Standing on the precipice, you’ll feel like you’re at the edge of the world. And you’ll get to revel in the fun atmosphere of the lovely coastal town of Dingle; don’t skip the local pubs for evening entertainment!

In just 5 days on this unforgettable Overland Ireland tour, we’ll pack in a diverse range of history, heritage, culture, scenery, castles, wildlife, and a few pints of the black stuff too! From seafood to traditional music, and from Cork to Galway, this Irish tour promises to be utterly unforgettable and we can’t wait to welcome you to our beautiful ancient island.

If you want more information about this or any of our other Ireland tours, please get in touch with our friendly, helpful team. There’s nothing we love more than helping you plan your dream vacation in Ireland! Due to our tours’ off-the-beaten-path locations, the size of our vehicles, and the fact that we cannot guarantee that all accommodation partners have ramps/elevators, unfortunately, our tours are not wheelchair accessible .

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!

What Is Included On Your 5-Day Ireland Tour?

Overland Ireland is unique among tour companies. We go above and beyond to pack as much holiday fun and intrigue into your tour price. We also don’t spring any hidden surprises or unexpected costs on you, so you can relax and enjoy yourself! As you can see in the list of inclusions below, we cover all tour entrance fees as well as accommodation, transport, and activity costs.

Please note, if an experience or activity cannot go ahead due to adverse weather or reasons beyond our control, we do not issue refunds. Do you have special dietary requirements or preferences? Please notify us as early as possible so we can make the necessary arrangements.

We can cater to pescatarians, vegetarians, and vegans.

• Tour departure is guaranteed
• Small and friendly group size Maximum 15 people on tour
• 4 nights local guest house and boutique hotel accommodation Carefully selected by our team
• Passionate and knowledgeable local guides
• Transport to all locations by air-conditioned Mercedes coaches
• Go-Bus transport to Dublin
• Experiences to teach you about our unique Irish culture
• Entry fees to national parks
• Kayak excursion in Dingle Bay
• Walkin’ Talkin’ Tastin’ tour of Galway
• The Cliffs of Moher hike
• Walking tour in Kinsale
• Sheepdog trials show
• Great Irish breakfast Also vegan, vegetarian, etc. are catered for
• Blarney Stone entrance
• Lunches and dinners
• Food and drinks
• Gratuities Optional
• Optional activities
• Private room upgrade for solo travellers Mandatory

Magical Southern Ireland Tour Itinerary

Day 1: From Dublin to Tipperary, Cork, and Kinsale

Total driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops

Leave Dublin’s bright lights behind and start your epic journey across the magical south of Ireland!

The first stop is the Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland’s most spectacular ancient sites.

Discover the medieval round tower, cathedral, castle, and chapel, all of which are steeped in 1,000 years of history.

This first castle experience will truly blow you away!

The adventure continues as we travel south to Cork, one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and Ireland’s second largest.

And remember, the local Corkonians claim their city is Ireland’s TRUE capital!

Of course, when in County Cork, you have to kiss the Blarney Stone. How else will you get the “gift of the gab”?

There’s also plenty of time to wander around Blarney Castle and its beautiful gardens — the perfect way to work up an appetite for a delicious local lunch.

This eventful first day closes with an overnight stay in Kinsale, a gorgeous harbour town in West Cork.

Kinsale is equally famous for its dramatic landscapes and award-winning restaurants. This is a true paradise for lovers of seafood!

Our local friend Barry will show you around the town’s forts, castles, shops, and galleries.

Day 2: From Kinsale to Kenmare, Killarney National Park, and Dingle

Total Driving time: 3 hours 30 minutes, excluding stops

After leaving Kinsale, we head toward one of Ireland’s most famous driving routes — the Ring of Kerry. (For the complete Ring of Kerry experience, see our Ireland to Island Tour).

Killarney National Park, our country’s first-ever national park, awaits! This special place includes stops at breathtaking overlooks like Ladies’ View and Molls’ Gap.

You will then enjoy a guided tour of Ross Castle. Your expert guide will bring the castle’s legends to life, helping you to imagine what life was like behind the imposing stone walls.

This amazing second day finishes in the cosy, celebrated coastal town of Dingle.

You’re free to spend the evening soaking up Dingle’s famous atmosphere, be it in a stellar restaurant, a quirky pub, or a traditional live music session.

Day 3: From Dingle to Slea Head

Total driving time: 2 hours, excluding stops

The morning of day three gets off to a special start with an optional kayaking adventure in Dingle Bay.

You can view the wild and rugged coastline from a new perspective and explore the nearby sea caves.

Is kayaking not your thing? Not to worry. We also provide a morning walk to Eask Tower, a solid stone monument standing atop Carhoo Hill.

At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the rolling blue Atlantic Ocean and the lush greenery of the Dingle Peninsula.

If you’d prefer to indulge in some retail therapy, you’re free to take some time for yourself to explore the charming local shops. It’s your holiday, so you can do it your way!

In the afternoon, head out on a trip along the incredible Slea Head Drive with a local expert guide.

Some of the amazing sights you can expect to see are beehive huts, beautiful harbours, and quintessential Irish landscapes — perfect for those important Instagram photos!

We then return to Dingle for a second night, so you can find even more great spots for fun and food. And best of all, there’s no need to re-pack your bags!

Day 4: From Dingle to County Clare

Your magical southern experience continues as we depart Dingle. Travelling north, soak in the jaw-dropping views of Connor Pass and Castlegregory.

We then stop off to watch a traditional sheepdog demonstration. The skill of the farmer and his furry friend consistently leaves our guests in awe.

This one-of-a-kind experience is easily one of the most popular on the tour.

Next, we board a ferry for the short ride to County Clare, home of the world-famous Cliffs of Moher.

We also visit the otherworldly landscapes of the Burren National Park, one of Ireland’s most unique and underrated attractions.

The only way to understand the grandeur and beauty of the Cliffs of Moher, and why they have captured imaginations for centuries, is to see them in person.

A guided hike, complete with the sound of the roaring Wild Atlantic below, is the perfect way to do this.

Your Overland Ireland guide is a local expert, so they take you off the beaten track, pointing out secret passages the average tourist simply won’t know about.

When you post your unfiltered photos from this natural wonder, your Insta followers will be green with envy.

We overnight in Doolin, the home of traditional Irish music, so get your dancing shoes on!

This most welcoming of quaint villages has lively bars scattered throughout, so you’re in for a treat.

Day 5: From Doolin to Galway

The final day of this adventure through the south of Ireland begins with a journey to Galway.

The drive takes us through Burren National Park, so you can enjoy even more spectacular views.

Our route to Galway includes a stop at the visually striking Poulnabrone Dolmen, an unusually large portal tomb.

You will also have a photo opportunity at Dunguaire Castle, a 16th-century tower house in Kinvara, a charming fishing village.

Finally, we glide into Galway, the cultural capital of Ireland. Here, you join our local friends for the Walkin’ Talkin’ Tastin’ tour of Galway!

Tasting locally distilled gin, trying authentic Irish cuisine, and getting a local’s insight into the city’s culture and history — there’s no better way to discover Galway!

Fun and entertainment are easy to find in this artistic haven. The picturesque medieval streets are alive with street entertainers, performers, and musicians.

Visit the shops and restaurants that now occupy the beautiful historic buildings in the city centre.

There’s no better time to try on a Galway shawl or to see how a Claddagh ring looks on you.

And when you have finished shopping, pass through the Spanish Arch and continue to Claddagh, a wonderful fishing village.

After basking in the treasures of Galway, it’s time to head back to Dublin. If needed, your guide will help to arrange coach transportation back to the capital.

But, of course, you’re more than welcome to continue your adventure in any way you want!

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

Note: To confirm your booking, you are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of €250 per person for Small-Group tours .

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about this tour or any others we operate. We may have already answered your question on our frequently asked questions page.

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6 Day Great Southern Ireland Tour

Southern ireland is calling.

Knights and castles, mountains and coastlines; you're about to fall in love with eastern and southern Ireland!

Fully refreshed for 2024, this easy-paced 6 day small group tour itinerary departs Dublin and visits Tipperary, Cork, Cobh, Kinsale, Kilkenny, Waterford and Wicklow.

Our expert tour guides will inspire you at eye-opening destinations like Blarney Castle, the Rock of Cashel and the Jameson Irish Whiskey Distillery.

This 6 day fully escorted tour runs from April through October in 2024. There's no best month to visit, anytime is good; so take a moment, breathe the fresh air and savour all the beauty!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "The hotels where we stayed were in perfect locations, and the small bus allowed us to get to places inaccessible to larger buses ... The trip was quite simply perfect ... We are already beginning to plan our next Vagabond trip."   Guest Review , July 2023

August 2024

September 2024, october 2024, august 2025, september 2025, october 2025.

*Price displayed is the discounted rate for departures in April & October 2024.

If the date you want is full please contact us  and we will do our best to accommodate you.

A €250 deposit per person is all we need to secure your tour online. All our departure dates are guaranteed .

**All tours are charged in EURO. Exchange rates quoted are online rates and may differ to the rate our payment partner Flywire and banks offer.

Single Supplements apply to Single Room Occupancy.

Genuine Guest Reviews

My wife and I just completed our first tour of Southern Ireland with Vagabond Tours.

To say this met our every expectation would be a gross understatement! The Mercedes van was comfortable, easily accommodating all, was immaculate and our guide Jason was humorous, knowledgeable and a wonderful driver.

Vagabond gets 5 stars from us and we will travel with them again!

You'll never look back at this trip and regret even a moment.

This was the absolutely BEST vacation experience we've ever had!

Our guide Andrew was exceptional. Experienced driver & guide and very passionate regarding the love of his native land. He's the sort of fella we all wish we had as a friend back home.

The trip was quite simply perfect.

Our guide was Michael, who was local to the area we traveled, and the breadth and depth of his knowledge of the area was staggering, as was his warmth and kindness.

The hotels where we stayed were in perfect locations, and the small bus allowed us to get to places inaccessible to larger buses.

We are already beginning to plan our next Vagabond trip.

Find answers to questions about the 6 Day Driftwood Ancient Ireland Tour itinerary.

When & Where Do Vagabond/Driftwood Tours Depart From?

All of our tours leave from our pick-up/drop-off point at the Grand Canal Hotel in Dublin .

Our pick-up times from the Grand Canal Hotel vary by tour:

Who Guides The Tours?

All of our tours are fully guided by our team of expert driver guides.

We call them VagaGuides .

What Activities Have Weight Limits?

We always put guest safety first on Vagabond Cultural Adventures.

For this reason, when engaging in kayaking and horseback-riding activities, the following personal weight limits apply:

🐴 Horseback-Riding

Male weight limit: 238lbs / 17 stone / 108kg

Female weight limit: 225lbs / 16 stone / 102kg

Per person Double Kayak weight limit: 110kg / 17.5 stone / 245lbs

Total Double Kayak weight limit for 2 guests: 190kg / 30 stone / 420lbs

Per person Single Kayak weight limit: 92kg / 14.5 stone / 200lbs.

Are There Any Luggage Restrictions?

Yes, we do operate a limit on luggage.

Owing to the compact nature of our small-group tour vehicles , your luggage limit is one suitcase per person (no bigger than 30” or 75cm along their longest side).

What Day Do Tours Return To Dublin?

To help you plan your return flights, here are the days and times that our tours return to Dublin.

The return point for all tours is Dublin's Grand Canal Hotel

Where Can I Do Laundry On Tour?

Serviced laundry facilities are available on tours that stay 2 nights in the following towns:

• 🧺 Dingle - Check which tours visit Dingle

Do All Hotels Provide Separate Bathrooms?

Yes, all hotel rooms on Vagabond and Driftwood Tours of Ireland are ensuite.

Expect your own separate bathroom with toilet, sink and shower and/or bath.

Where Is My Luggage Stored On Tour Vehicles?

The answer depends on which tour style you have chosen.

Driftwood vehicles have space for luggage onboard. Vagabond vehicles tow a trailer.

Which Small Group Tours of Ireland Visit Kinsale?

Kinsale is a quaint harbour town located in Cork, Ireland.

The following small group tours of Ireland explore Kinsale:

• 👑 7 Day Driftwood Castles & Kingdoms Tour
• ☘️ 6 Day Driftwood Great Southern Tour

Actons Hotel Kinsale

Over the years, Actons Hotel has established a reputation for personalised guest care.

This matches our own high standards at Vagabond & Driftwood Tours.

Allied with breathtaking maritime views over Kinsale Harbour, Actons Hotel offers the perfect base to explore the famous county of Cork.

Savour the luxurious spa, relax in your modern, comfortable room or grab a bite to eat in the outdoor garden dining area.

Bayview Hotel

Hear the waves crash outside your bedroom...

The Bayview Hotel is a fine manor house hotel, located on cliffs above the Celtic Sea in Cork.

Wander its delightful gardens or explore the beautiful fishing village of Ballycotton with its sandy beaches.

Only lucky Driftwood guests on our 6 Day Ancient Ireland Tour get to enjoy the Bayview Hotel.

The Tower Hotel

Welcome to the heart of Waterford city, Ireland's oldest urban settlement.

The Tower Hotel overlooks Waterford's famous waterfront.

Lucky for our Driftwood guests, this is the city's most central location.

Why the Tower? Well, your home for the night overlooks the 600-year-old Reginald's Tower.

Step outside and you're free to explore the vibrant Viking Triangle area, with multiple cultural attractions and dining options on your doorstep.

Pembroke Hotel Kilkenny

This 4 star hotel in Kilkenny is situated right in the centre of Kilkenny city.

With over 400 years of history and a vast array of beautiful countryside to explore, the Pembroke Hotel in Kilkenny provides a perfect base for Driftwooders.

The Pembroke is an extremely comfortable hotel with delicious food.

Don't miss the fun 'shebeen' space for socialising.

All Driftwood tours are flexible. Your 6 Day Driftwood Great Southern Ireland Tour is no different.

Unmissable activities are included. Where there are great options, we’ve left the final decision up to you. Feel free to choose your evening meals and lunches. All additional tour options are marked clearly below.

• A journey of discovery in a super-comfy, slick Mercedes mini-coach
• The services of a highly-trained and professional VagaGuide tour guide
• 6 full days on tour
• 5 nights' accommodation
• 5 delicious and filling hot Irish breakfasts
• Most daily activities and essential attractions
• Guided Tour of Jerpoint Park
• Guided Tour of the Dunbrody Famine Ship
• Wicklow Sheepdog Demo & Sheep Farm Experience
• Guided Tour of the Jameson Whiskey Distillery
• Guided Tour of Hook Lighthouse
• Entrance into Tintern Abbey
• Entrance into Rock of Cashel
• Entrance into Blarney Castle & Gardens

All details of prices and suppliers listed here are correct at time of publication. Our suppliers occasionally increase prices for optional tour activities during the touring season. This is a rare occurence. In the unlikely event of a major price increase, we will do our utmost to update you.

** Cash is required for this activity. No card payment available.

• Queenstown Experience €12.00 Museum attraction about Cobh's role in emigration and the Titanic.
• Waterford Freedom Pass €20 Access five museums and take a 60 minute walking tour in central Waterford.
• Waterford Crystal Tour €17.00 Guided tour of famous glass-making factory and craft glassware collection.
• King of the Vikings VR €10.00 Watch Vikings come to life at his virtual reality experience in Waterford.
• Kilkenny Castle €8.00 Self-guided tour of 12th century Kilkenny Castle.
• Shenanigans Kilkenny Walking Tour €22.40 Discover Ireland’s medieval capital on foot. Mix of historical facts and fun.
• Smithwick's Brewery Tour €18.00 Guided tour and ale tasting at the Smithwick’s Brewery in Kilkenny

6 Day Great Southern Ireland Tour Intro & Highlights

• Explore historic cities, like Kilkenny and Waterford ; both with elegant medieval buildings.
• Soak up stunning scenery  in the Wicklow Mountains National Park , Ireland’s largest upland wilderness area.
• Encounter jaw-dropping landscapes at Glendalough , a 6th century monastic site in a glaciated valley.
• Experience quaint villages , such as Cobh , ‘one of Europe's most beautiful small towns’ (Condé Nast Traveler).
• Take an Irish whiskey tasting tour at the historic Jameson Distillery near Cork.
• Tour secluded coves and ancient relics along the criminally underrated Copper Coast .
• Kiss the Blarney Stone and wander through the magical Blarney Castle & Gardens .
• Follow in the footsteps of Viking raiders and Norman knights , who invaded and settled Ireland's southeast.

Day 1: Blarney Stone & Rock of Cashel

Begin your 6 day Ireland tour at Grand Canal Hotel in Dublin at 8.10am. Board your Mercedes tour vehicle, bound for Tipperary and Cork.

• Take a self-guided tour of the imposing medieval complex at the Rock of Cashel (Fee Included).
• Kiss the Blarney Stone to receive the gift o' the gab (Fee Included) .
• Imbued with your new powers, chatter your way around the lush gardens at Blarney Castle (Fee Included).

Accommodation tonight is at Actons Hotel.

The average driving time today is 4 hours 30 minutes.

Day 2: Cobh & Irish Whiskey Tour

The second day of your 6 day southern Ireland tour is a pleasant ramble through charming coastal towns in Cork.

• Choose free time exploring the colourful streets of Kinsale or a scenic coastal drive to the Old Head of Kinsale.
• Delve into maritime history in Cobh — pronounced cove — an historic town located on an island in Cork Harbour.
• Taste authentic Irish whiskey on a guided tour of the Jameson Whiskey Distillery , in Midleton (Fee Included).

Accommodation tonight is at The Bayview Hotel.

The average driving time today is 3 hours.

Day 3: The Copper Coast

On day 3 of your southern Ireland tour, you’ll take the scenic route from Ballycotton to Waterford, Ireland's oldest city.

• Scenic drive through the Comeragh Mountains , including a short walk to Mahon Falls .
• Drift along the Copper Coast to visit secluded coves and see dramatic sea stacks.
• Discover wonderful Waterford , a city first established on the south coast by 10th century Vikings.

Accommodation tonight is at The Tower Hotel.

Day 4: Lighthouse Tour & Waterford City

Freedom abound on day 3, exploring Waterford and Wexford – the twin jewels of southern Ireland.

• Don't miss a guided tour of the world's oldest operational lighthouse at Hook Head  (Fee Included).
• Meet the Normans at 13th century Tintern Abbey and its beautiful gardens (Fee Included).
• Free afternoon in Waterford to relax, wander the streets or visit several heritage attractions (Optional Extra).

The average driving time today is 2 hours.

Day 5: Kilkenny Castle & Jerpoint Park

Your tour moves from historic Waterford to medieval Kilkenny.

• Step on-board the Dunbrody Famine Ship ; an exact replica of a 19th century Irish emigrant vessel (Fee Included).
• Take a guided tour of the historic ruins at Jerpoint Park  (Fee Included).
• This afternoon, relax with free time in Kilkenny   or choose a self-guided tour of Kilkenny Castle (Optional Extra).

Accommodation tonight is at The Pembroke Hotel.

The average driving time today is 1 hours 30 minutes.

Day 6: Kilkenny & Wicklow Mountains National Park

Turning northward, your tour takes in amazing sights on the journey from Kilkenny back to Dublin.

• Discover Bronze Age Rathgall – one of Ireland’s largest ringforts.
• Enjoy a sheepdog demo at a working Irish sheep farm (Fee Included).
• Cross the wilderness of Wicklow Mountains National Park .
• Explore the 6th century monastery of Glendalough .

The average driving time today is 3 hours 30 minutes.

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10 NIGHT SOUTHERN ADVENTURE

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Why book with us.

• Personal Service - from enquiry to departure.
• Experienced Chauffeurs & Guides with Unrivalled Knowledge
• 5 Star Rated Tour Provider
• Exclusive Partnerships with Accommodations & Venues
• Hand-Crafted Tours Itineraries
• Your very own dedicated Tour Designer

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Tour Details

This sensational private 10 Night Southern Adventure features magnificent hotels and estates, mesmerising scenery, iconic castles, rich history and culture, and lots more along the way.

Arrival & Departure Location:

Dublin Airport

• The Merrion Hotel, Dublin (2 Nights)
• Mount Juliet, Kilkenny (1 Night)
• Hayfield Manor, Cork (1 Night)
• The Europe Hotel, Killarney (3 Nights)
• Glenlo Abbey, Galway (1 Night)
• Ashford Castle, Cong (2 Nights)

Activities & Sites Included

• Driving Tour of Dublin
• Walking Tour of Dublin, Guinness Storehouse
• Powerscourt Estate, Glendalough, Kilkenny Castle
• Rock of Cashel, Blarney Castle, Old Head of Kinsale Viewpoint
• Bantry Bay, Kenmare, Killarney National Park, Muckross House and Gardens
• Ring of Kerry
• The Slea Head Drive
• Adare, Cliffs of Moher, The Burren Hike, Burren Perfumery
• Galway, Clifden, Hike through Connemara National Park
• Westport House, Achill Island Tour
• Personalised itinerary
• Executive vehicle (Mercedes V-Class or similar) & knowledgable chauffeur driver for route according to itinerary
• Services of private local guides in activities according to itinerary
• Admissions to all sites according to itinerary
• Accommodation according to itinerary
• Breakfast at all Hotels Included
• Co-ordination and support / Dedicated Travel Co-ordinator

Day 1 Driving Tour of Dublin

Accommodation – The Merrion Hotel, Dublin (2 nights) Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur. Activities – Driving Tour of Dublin

Upon arrival at the airport, you will be greeted by your friendly private driver. Your luggage will be taken care of and a gift bag will be waiting inside your vehicle. Your Irish adventure will be officially underway with a short  driving tour of Dublin .

As you weave through the city, you will see the  Garden of Remembrance , a commemoration for those who died fighting for Irish freedom. You will then pass the  General Post Office  on O’Connell Street, the site of one of the most important battles in Irish history. Your driver will then take you past  The Custom House . This architectural masterpiece defines neoclassical buildings and now houses various government departments.

After getting a tantalising taste for this magnificent city, you will be taken to  The Merrion Hotel . Perfectly positioned in the heart of Dublin, this luxurious 5-star hotel is within walking distance of The National Gallery and National Museum of Ireland, as well as the Golden Mile of bars, shops, and cafes. Timeless luxury and elegant décor are wrapped in Irish charm. The hotel has a fine array of services on offer, such as fitness suites, swimming pool, spa, not one but two period gardens, and numerous restaurants and bars, including the renowned, 2-Michelin star Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud where you will be served food of the utmost quality. We promise you will not be disappointed.

Day 2 Walking Tour of Dublin, Guinness Storehouse

Accommodation – The Merrion Hotel, Dublin Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur. Activities – Walking Tour of Dublin, Guinness Storehouse

After a luxurious breakfast, you will embark on a morning walking tour of Dublin. Your walking guide will meet you at reception before heading to the first stop of the day which will be  Dublin Castle . The castle was originally built in the 13 th  century and was a headquarters for the English in Ireland. Following Irish independence, Dublin Castle passed over to the Irish Government. This grand building is steeped in history and your guide will explain all the juicy details of the buildings captivating past.

Your next stop will be  Trinity College Library . The college was opened in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth and is the oldest university in Ireland. The old library was constructed in the 18 th  century and to this day is home to many ancient manuscripts. You will get the chance to visit the Book of Kells exhibition. The world-famous Book of Kells was written over 1000 years ago and is a hand-decorated copy of the 4 gospels.

You will then stop off for a well-earned lunch at Trocadero . This prestigious Irish restaurant is a favourite among tourists and locals alike. Famous as a treasured spot of stars of the stage and screen, the relaxed atmosphere of the “Troc” is the perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Their menu boasts confit duck, 28-day dry aged Irish Angus beef, and Wicklow Lamb.

After lunch, you will head back to The Merrion to freshen up before being escorted by your driver to the  Guinness Storehouse . Your driver will provide your “skip the queue” tickets and you will explore the 7 floors of Guinness history. On the ground and first floor you will learn about the Guinness brewing process, the key ingredients, and barrelling process. The following floors tell the Guinness story through virtual and interactive displays. Finally, you will reach the gravity bar, where the glass walls allow for panoramic views of the city, and you will be treated to a refreshing free pint of Guinness.

You will then return to The Merrion for an evening of relaxed dining, sampling more of the delights on offer at Restaurant Patrick Guilbaud .

Day 3 Powerscourt Estate, Glendalough, Kilkenny Castle

Accommodation – Lyrath Estate Hotel, Kilkenny (1 night) Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur Activities – Powerscourt Estate, Glendalough, Kilkenny Castle

After another fantastic breakfast, your first stop of the day is Powerscourt House, Gardens, and Waterfall , a truly unforgettable experience. With gardens that were voted the 3 rd best in the world, one of the top ten houses in the world, and the highest and most beautifully dramatic waterfall in Ireland, you are sure to have a wonderful time here. If you get hungry, you can always enjoy lunch in the Avoca Terrace Café which enjoys panoramic views of the gardens and Sugarloaf Mountain in the distance. After lunch, why not take a stroll through the Japanese gardens and on to The Pepperpot Tower which you can climb and enjoy views across the entire estate.

The next stop is Glendalough , home to one of Ireland’s most impressive natural landscapes known as ‘the valley of the two lakes’. However, the stunning scenery is not the only attraction here, as this is also the site of an early medieval monastic settlement which dates back to the 6 th century. There are numerous ancient buildings to explore, including the distinctive Round Tower, St. Peter and St. Paul’s Cathedral, St Mary’s or Our Lady’s Church, and Reefert Church. If natural wonders are more your thing, there is also Poulanass Waterfall and River to explore and marvel at.

From there it’s a short journey into Kilkenny and as you will have likely worked up an appetite with all your exploring, we recommend Paris Texas , a gastro pub like no other, with its wood smoking oven and fusion of American Southwest and New Orleans French Quarter cultures and cuisines. We suspect there may be a chance of over-eating, with such delights on offer as buffalo wings, smoked ribs, tequila prawns, jerk chicken, and Louisiana paella. It’s comfort food with class.

From there you will pay a visit to Kilkenny castle , which dates all the way back to the Norman conquest of Ireland. Kilkenny castle has a colourful history; it has constantly been adapted over the years, with many different uses and occupants. It nestles within some glorious scenery, including parkland, woodlands, rose gardens, and a lake.

You will then be chauffeured to  Mount Juliet Estate .  This luxury 5-star hotel is steeped in history and boasts two accommodations that draw on centuries of local Irish history: the chic Hunter’s Yard and the elegant Georgian Manor House.

This evening you will have the pleasure of dining in their Lady Helen restaurant , nestled within this magnificent 260 year old country manor.

Day 4 Rock of Cashel, Blarney Castle, Old Head of Kinsale Viewpoint

Accommodation – Hayfield Manor, Cork (1 night) Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur. Activities – Rock of Cashel, Blarney Castle, Old Head of Kinsale Viewpoint

After a relaxing breakfast, your chauffeur will be waiting and you will venture south. Your first stop of the day will be The Rock of Cashel , a fascinating group of medieval buildings set on a rocky outcrop of land in the Golden Vale. You will visit the 12th century round tower, which is the oldest building on the outcrop. Other highlights include the 13th century gothic cathedral and the 15th century castle.

You will then meander south, through the breath-taking Irish countryside until you reach  Blarney Castle . Blarney castle dates back to the 12 th  century but was rebuilt by the McCarthy family in the  15 th  century . The castle is famously known for the “Blarney Stone”. According to ancient tradition, if you kiss the stone you inherit the “gift of the gab”. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens, each with a different theme. From the Fern Garden to the Poison Garden, you will be constantly mesmerised as you stroll through the enchanting Blarney Gardens.

You will then continue your journey onwards to  Old Head of Kinsale . Described as being on the “ edge of the world ”, this outcrop into the ocean is the official start of the  Wild Atlantic Way . Make sure to have your camera at the ready, as the ocean views are simply spectacular.

After an eventful day of exploring, you will be chauffeured to the award-winning Hayfield Manor  in Cork. This luxurious 5-star hotel sits just on the edge of the city centre, 15 minutes from the city’s many attractions. Hayfield Manor is a family owned and run hotel, so you will receive the warmest Irish welcome and be treated to service which is second to none. The Beautique Spa offers a chance to unwind, with a range of treatments available, as well as an indoor heated pool, outdoor jacuzzi, steam room, and sauna. To round off the evening you will dine in one of Cork’s premium restaurants, Orchids . Delicate lighting, excellent service, and the finest Irish cuisine guarantee a meal you will not forget. From the pan seared Irish scallops to the Duo of Midelton lamb, there’s sure to be something to enjoy.

Day 5 Bantry Bay, Kenmare, Killarney National Park, Muckross House and Gardens

Accommodation – The Europe Hotel & Resort, Killarney (3 nights) Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur. Activities – Bantry Bay, Kenmare, Killarney National Park, Muckross House and Gardens

After breakfast, your private driver will be waiting and you will say goodbye to Killarney. Today you will tour West Cork which is thought of by many as one of the last bastions of “old Ireland”. You will weave south through the rugged Irish countryside. You will meander past Bantry Bay which runs for 35km and looks out towards the Atlantic Ocean. Behind are high mountain ridges which make the bay postcard perfect.

You will then double back, heading north-east to  Kenmare . This quaint town is the perfect spot for lunch, enjoying panoramic views of Kenmare Bay, and soaking up the atmosphere of one of the most authentic towns in Ireland.

The sublime scenery only gets better as you travel north through  Killarney National Park ; the first national park in Ireland and arguably the most beautiful. You will weave through glorious countryside and glistening lakes, with your driver stopping off at all the best photo opportunities. You will then tour  Muckross House and Gardens . Set in the heart of the national park, near Muckross lake, this 19 th  century mansion was designed by the famous Scottish architect  William Burn . After that it’s off to the town of Killarney. Built around the banks of Lough Leane, the town is surrounded by a mountainous backdrop.

Your chauffeur will then escort you back to  The Europe Hotel  for a relaxing evening. For dinner, you will be heading The Porterhouse . This cosy spot offers it all, with delicious food, a wonderful ambience, and a huge selection of drinks on offer, including specialised whisky and gin. Simply tell your server what your favourite flavours are and they will come up with the perfect cocktail for you.

Day 6 Ring of Kerry

Accommodation – The Europe Hotel & Resort, Killarney Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur. Activities – Ring of Kerry

After breakfast, you will begin your journey around the famous  Ring of Kerry . You will weave through Killorglin and Glenbeigh, stopping off to view the breath-taking  Rossbeigh Beach.  Enjoy the sandy beach, fresh sea breeze, and views of the Atlantic Ocean. You will then continue down the coastline until you reach  Cahersiveen . This authentic Irish town is a great stop for lunch and the birthplace of Daniel O’Connell,  one of Ireland’s most revered political figures .

You will then snake your way down the coast until you can see  Valentina Island.  If you are a Star Wars fan, make sure to have your camera at the ready. You will pass the famous  Skellig Island , which featured in “The Force Awakens”. You will continue to journey around the awe-inspiring coast until reaching Sneem Village. This charming, quaint town is nicknamed “The Way the Fairies Went”, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled. While you might not see any fairies, the views are certainly exceptional on this stretch of the  Ring of Kerry  known as the “knot” as it ties together where the mountains and water meet.

You will continue north until reaching  Moll’s Gap . This famous mountain pass cuts through the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountains and is one of the most popular photo stops in Ireland.

Having seen so many wonderful sights, you will be hungry for a spot of lunch at Camo’s , a charming little restaurant and wine bar offering a wide range of food, including the crispy battered fresh fish of the day. From there you will make the short trip back to  The Europe Hotel , where you can relax for a while before enjoying dinner at the Panorama Restaurant . Look out for the oysters, wild seabass, and lamb reared on the hotels own farm.

Day 7 The Slea Head Drive

Accommodation – The Europe Hotel & Resort, Killarney Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur. Activities – The Slea Head Drive

Make sure you have a hearty breakfast, as you are about to embark on one of Ireland’s most scenic drives. You will weave west along the coastline until you reach the town of  Dingle , where you will begin the Slea Head Drive Route . This circular route, which is part of the Wild Atlantic Way, is dripping in beauty and history. You will make your way around the coastline until you reach  Dunbeg Fort , the ruins of which date all the way back to the Iron Age. Take a look back at ancient Irish history while enjoying sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean.

You will then make the short journey to the  Beehive Huts . These Bronze Age dwellings have been well preserved and offer a glimpse of what life was like in the Bronze Age. You will then route around the coastline until you get views of the  Basket Islands . These islands lie just off the coast and were inhabited until 1953. On a cold, wet, and windy day, the Basket Islands are battered by the elements and many people are astonished the island used to be inhabited.

After that, you will reach  Ballyferriter Village,  which provides beautiful views of the Three Sisters. These three peaks are draped in Irish mythology and legend has it that Lindbergh’s first sight of land after crossing the Atlantic was the Three Peaks. This will also offer you a chance to fill your belly as you pay a visit to Tigh Ui Mhurchu , or Murphy’s. Don’t be fooled by an understated exterior because the food on offer at Murphy’s will have you wanting to go back again and again. If the sun is out, why not enjoy a cold Guinness in the beer garden.

Your chauffeur will then drive you back to  The Europe Hotel . If time permits, however, you can stop at  Inch Beach  to soak up the amazing views, before returning to the hotel for a relaxing evening. In the evening, dinner will be served in The Brasserie , a sleek, stylish restaurant offering flame-grilled steaks that are cooked in front of you.

Day 8 Adare, Cliffs of Moher, The Burren Hike, Hazel Mountain Chocolate

Accommodation – Glenlo Abbey Hotel, Galway (1 night) Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur. Activities – Adare, Cliffs of Moher, The Burren Hike, Burren Perfumery

You have a long day ahead, so we advise an early start and a hearty breakfast. You will head north until you reach  Adare . This historic village is a great venue for a refreshing coffee and stroll to stretch your legs. You will see thatched roof houses and traditional Irish pubs. Weaving through the Irish countryside, you will reach the imposing  Cliffs of Moher , voted Irelands favourite tourist destination in 2019 and 2020. The cliffs tower above the Atlantic Ocean at over 700 feet high and span 5 miles. For bird watchers, the cliffs are a paradise, with over 20 species of seabirds. Take a deep breath, listen to the waves crashing below, and bask in the ambiance of Ireland’s most famous beauty spot. You may have built up an appetite by now, and a great spot to get some lunch is the Cliffs View café. This eco-friendly spot focusses on serving up the tastiest local produce County Clare has to offer.

The next adventure is a hike in the intriguing, rocky area that is The Burren . There are a wide range of walks available, from coastal strolls to strenuous hill walks, so there will be something for everyone to enjoy the many features of this wonderfully peculiar landscape. 

After your walk you will get the chance to visit Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory & Shop , an ideal place to possibly pick up some gifts for friends or family back home. Located at the foothills of the Burren Mountains this is a great little place to enjoy a delicious hot chocolate.

Your journey will continue until you reach your accommodation for the evening, Glenlo Abbey . This magnificent hotel sits within a 138 acre estate of glorious natural landscape, allowing for perfect peace and tranquillity as you admire the shores of Lough Corrib. You may only be 5 minutes away from Galway City, but you will feel like you’re in a different world as the rugged beauty surrounds you. There is a spa and numerous estate activities, including golfing, falconry, a movie theatre, fishing, cycling, and horse riding.

This evening your will dine in the Pullman Restaurant , which is certainly one of Ireland’s most unique dining experiences. Located in the grounds of the hotel the restaurant is comprised of two original carriages from the Orient Express.

Day 9 Galway, Clifden, Hike through Connemara National Park

Accommodation – Ashford Castle Hotel, Galway (2 nights) Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur. Activities – Galway, Clifden, Hike through Connemara National Park

Your chauffeur will firstly take you to the delightful town of Galway . As you take a stroll through this traditional Irish town, we highly recommend visiting some of the pubs and cafes that serve traditional local cuisine. If time permits, you could visit the Galway City Museum, view the Spanish Arch, or check out the local market that sits in the shadow of the wonderful St Nicholas’ Medieval Church.

You will then stop off in Clifden , a quaint marketplace town which is an ideal spot for some lunch at Mitchell’s Restaurant. Don’t worry if it’s a cold day, two open fires will be on hand to warm you up while you tuck into a nice bowl of fresh homemade soup and a range of delicious sandwiches.

After a scrumptious lunch, you will travel west until you reach  Connemara National Park where you will be going for a hike through the park’s stunning natural heathlands and glinting lakes. You will journey through the Roundstone Boglands, where you might catch a glimpse of wild ponies.

After another eventful day of touring, you will be driven to  Ashford Castle  for a relaxing evening. One of Ireland’s grandest castles, it was originally built in the 1200’s. It has seen many a brutal battle over the years but eventually became a hunting lodge before being sold to the Guinness family in 1852. Ashford Castle is now a luxury hotel resort, with sprawling gardens, picture perfect fountains, and a blend of Medieval and Victorian architecture.

Day 10 Westport House, Achill Island Tour

Accommodation – Ashford Castle Hotel, Galway Transport – Executive Vehicle & Private Chauffeur. Activities – Westport House, Achill Island Tour

On your final day of touring, you will first of all visit Westport House , one of Ireland’s most majestic historic houses. Sublime architecture, pristine gardens and grounds, and a backdrop of rivers and mountains combine to provide a sense of being in a truly magical place. We highly recommend taking a relaxing stroll through the ancient woodland which surrounds Westport House. There is a 3.5km circular walk which takes in the woodland, a lake, and sea views, and which is sure to leave you feeling calm and refreshed.

You will then embark on a tour around Achill Island , which is the largest of the Irish Isles and home to roughly two and a half thousand people. You will arrive in the small village of Achill Sound and cross a swing bridge that joins Achill Island to the Irish mainland. From late May onwards, Achill Island welcomes you with plentiful displays of blooming pink rhododendrons. You will then be taken along the Wild Atlantic Way to enjoy the island’s rugged landscape, dramatic cliffs, soaring mountains, remote lakes, and golden sandy beaches. On the way, you pass one of the castles of the legendary pirate queen, Grace O’Malley. You’ll feel as though you have entered a different world as you set eyes on one of the most idyllic beaches in the country – Keem Bay. As you walk along the beach, barefoot if you wish, and take it all in, your worldly worries will seem to disappear, forgotten in the magnificence of the scenery. From here it’s a short drive to the northern side of the island, passing German writer and Nobel Prize winner Heinrich Böll’s cottage in Dugort, as well as two Blue Flag beaches – Silver Strand and Golden Strand, which face out over the sea and over to Blacksod Bay and the remote Belmullet Peninsula. There are many excellent places to have lunch on Achill Island and you can choose from these as we drive along.

Having explored the marvellous Achill Island, you will return to Ashford Castle to enjoy a relaxed final evening.

Day 11 Departure - Transfer to Airport

As your luxury tour draws to and end it will now be time to bid a fond farewell to the Emerald Isle. Your personal chauffeur will escort you to the airport.

Related Tours

BEST OF IRELAND TOUR

10 DAY IRISH HIGHLIGHTS TOUR

Best things to do on a Southern Ireland road trip

With its cosy country pubs, rolling hillsides, and charming towns, you’ll be captivated by the welcoming atmosphere and number of great things to see when you visit Southern Ireland.

Here you’ll find some of the most beloved towns in Southern Ireland – Killarney, Kilkenny , and Cork – and the famous the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula.  The latter is the perfect spot to lace up your hiking boots and ramble through the landscape or explore ancient ruins with your expert leader on a small group tour in Southern Ireland. Think of it as the ultimate Southern Ireland road trip with someone to take care of the driving along all those challenging, winding country roads. Here are some of the best things to see and do along the way.

HOW TO SEE NORTHERN & SOUTHERN IRELAND ON THE ONE TRIP

Kiss the Blarney Stone

Even if you aren’t keen on hanging onto a ladder and leaning over backwards to kiss the famous Blarney Stone, Blarney Castle is well worth a visit. A stroll through the grounds reveals a magical landscape that many believe is haunted. On a chilly morning or afternoon, it’s not hard to see why as the landscape looks almost magical with the mist rolling through it. You can also visit the castle and admire its formidable battlements and venture underground to see the castle’s dungeon. Walking backwards up and down the Wishing Steps without stopping is said to make your wish come true.

Cork is the largest city in Southern Ireland and famous for The English Market which has been selling the best of the region’s produce since 1788. Wander its stalls and chat with the stall holders to learn more about the fare on offer. You can also pull up a seat and dine on traditional dishes like drisheen and pigs’ trotters at the market’s Farmgate Café. Other highlights in the town of Cork include touring the Cork City Gaol, strolling around Elizabeth Fort, admiring the stained glass at St Fin Barre’s Cathedral, and sampling traditional brews at the Franciscan Well Brewery.

Visit Torc Waterfall

Visiting the Torc Waterfall near Killarney Town is easy as it is only a 200 metre walk from the carpark to the beautiful 20 metre high falls which are at their best when the weather is wet. If you can, time your visit after it rains as you’ll get to see delicate curtains of water tumbling down the falls. For a lovely view over Middle Lake, take the steps that lead up to the second higher viewing point after you’ve enjoyed your first look at the falls.

WALK THE WICKLOW WAY IN SOUTHERN IRELAND

Killarney is a lively tourist town that’s the perfect base for explore nearby Killarney National Park which was the first National Park created in Ireland. The colourful streets are a hive of activity, especially during the summer months, with plenty of cute gift shops and boutiques to explore. Allow time to visit Ross Castle, down on the shores of Lough Leane, a stronghold built by the O’Donoghue clan. The tower house has borne witness to much of Ireland’s history over the centuries. The 15th-century Muckross Abbey is another historic building worth exploring.

Drive the Ring of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry, a circular 179km driving route, takes you through some of the country’s most spectacular scenery and reveals countless unspoiled natural wonders. However, while there is no denying the rolling green hills, crystal clear lakes, and towering cliffs are superb, you’ll be glad your leader is driving. Many of the roads are barely wide enough to fit one car. Along the way, keep a lookout for castles, historic mansions and shepherds tending their flocks. A farm visit and herding demonstration is one of many highlights on this scenic journey.

Dingle is a cute little town that’s big on country charm. Rub shoulders with the locals at one of the many pubs, where you can listen to songs sung in the traditional Irish language, or take a short drive to Slea Head, Europe’s westernmost point. From here, it’s a short hike along the coast to admire the best of Dingle’s stunning scenery. You’ll stroll along country lanes and past beaches and cliffs where nesting seabirds, seals and even dolphins are a common sight. Don’t miss the Gallarus Oratory, an early Christian Church of unknown age and origin.

Kilkenny is located in one of the most ancient parts of Southern Ireland and the perfect spot to try your hand at the Gaelic game of Hurling – one of Ireland’s treasured national sports. Cycle through the lush Irish countryside as you explore the Waterford Greenway, a traffic-free trail built on a disused railway line, or hike along the River Nore to Kilkenny Castle. This defensive castle with magnificent rose gardens and charming walking paths was remodeled to make it more genteel in Victorian times. Evenings can be spent at the pub with traditional live music and whiskey tasting.

SEE MORE OF KILKENNY AND ITS SURROUNDS

Galway is sure to get your toes tapping with traditional live music, either at one of the town’s atmospheric pubs or while you’re walking down the street as the buskers here are incredible. Take a drive to the Cliffs of Moher, one of the most visited spots in Ireland, which are fringed with wild waves and plunge dramatically into the ocean. While you’re in Galway, you can also visit the impressive Catholic Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas. If you enjoy seafood, the oysters plucked from the nearby ocean shouldn’t be missed.

Feeling inspired?

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid has been leading small group adventures for over 30 years. We’re a certified B Corp, which means we want to be the best travel company not just in the world, but for the world. To create positive change through the joy of travel. You can read our latest adventures right here.

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Southern Ireland Tours & Trips

Discover amazing adventures through Southern Ireland visiting places like Dublin, the Atlantic Ocean and Killarney. Most travellers enjoy exploring our Southern Ireland trips in September, making it the most popular time of the year. Check here the best Ireland vacations .

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214 southern ireland tour packages with 5,741 reviews.

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing

Best of Ireland (10 Days)

We travelled across Ireland with Trafalgar and would totally recommend them to anyone. They chose venues and excursions that were of interest to everyone and were sensitive to everyone's wishes. I would definitely travel with them again, it was a pleasurable experience! Gisela Reimer

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Irish Highlights (Summer, 7 Days)

The Irish Highlights Trafalgar Tour was excellent. The tour director and driver were great and the events and scenery were amazing. The weather was very hot and it was good that fans were available in the rooms.

7-Day Great Atlantic Adventure Small Group Tour

We had multiple activities each day so we experienced a lot in just one week

7-Day Emerald Explorer Small Group Tour

Mike Duggin was a fabulous guide, passionate, entertaining, and well versed in Irish history. Our group of 13 get along well and the itinerary suited our needs, thank you!

The Celtic Voyage - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

This tour was so good! We experienced more of Ireland than the itinerary indicated (because of stops we made along our journey, which I loved!), but never felt rushed. Our guide Diarmuid is such a professional - he provided us with interesting information about the places we stopped and Ireland in general, kept us on schedule with a relaxed demeanor, and is genuinely a very nice person. I've never traveled with a tour group before and this one couldn't have been any better. The Emerald Isle is so beautiful and everyone is so friendly that, even when there was a bit of rain, it was still fun. Many thanks to Mick and Diarmuid (the best!!) for making this a most memorable trip. PS the accommodations were fantastic - especially the breakfasts!

Northern & Southern Ireland

there is a difference between, a tour guide and a tour leader, this i did not know. a leader is the organizer of all events, transportation and accommodations. Zoe far exceeded my expectations in this role, and i would highly recommend her. She was not a tour guide. I was expecting more information about the people, locations and cultures of Ireland.

10 Day Wild Irish Experience - Small Group Tour

Our 10 day Irish Experience Tour was fantastic. We really appreciated the service and extra care our guide/driver Lee gave us throughout the tour. We had a group of 16 people and 2 were on the 7 day itinerary the rest were 10 days. We loved the group dinners that Lee organized for us to get to know the other guests. Lee always made the agenda clear and got us to the places we needed to be on time. His driving was very safe and he was able to tell us about the Irish people and scenery while getting us to the beautiful views and attractions. The accommodations were clean and the breakfast were delicious. Lee always gave us recommendations on restaurants and pubs in each town we stayed. Each town was unique and I was glad we were able to stay in several of them for 2 nights. Lee adjusted the times to maximize the good weather and for the group to get the best experience. I highly recommend the 10 day Irish Experience tour with Lee!

• €99 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

8 Day Castles & Coast Experience - Small Group Tour

AMAZING TOUR! Loved every second of it and can't wait to go back to Ireland! Kieran and Lee were our guides and can't say enough about their knowledge and their helpfulness. Thank you!

3-Day Blarney Castle, Kilkenny & Irish Whiskey Small-Group Tour from Dublin

Marcus, accomodation, and the tour was great

• Hiking & Trekking

Highlights of Ireland

Wild South - Multi-Day - Small Group Tour of Ireland

The Wild South Tour was an excellent tour overall, very good value! The guides (Diarmuid and Michael) were great. The add-ons were reasonable and well worth the extra cost. We (my husband and I) especially liked the boat trip to the Skellig Islands. There was a lot of time in the van, but we realized that the best sites were far apart, so the travel was necessary. It was okay. We were so glad to see so many beautiful and memorable sites in very congenial company. I have recommended this tour to friends, with one caveat (see below). However, there was one glaring anomaly: the night and hotel in Cork. Our room at the REZz Hotel is the worst I’ve ever encountered. It was tiny, even too tiny for a single, and unbearably hot with no AC or fan. There was no place to sit (seriously, no chairs at all and only one person at a time could sit on the bed because most of it was blocked by a wall!!). No place to open luggage except on the floor in front of the door. Fire hazard. It all looked and felt dirty and kind of creepy. Totally UNACCEPTABLE! Breakfast featured packaged cookies/bars and half-rotten fruit. I was quite alarmed and worried about the rest of the Wild South tour! Thank goodness this was an anomaly. The rest of our accommodations were excellent — as good or better than the Ashling Hotel for which I paid $300/night for the night before and the night after the tour. I was really impressed with all tour accommodations EXCEPT for the Hotel REZz on that first night. I hope Wild & Happy finds another accommodation in Cork for the sake of future travelers.

Great Tour of Ireland ( 7 days )

Kerry Royal

Adrian was a great driver, I felt he did a wonderful job navigating the treacherous roads. Gordon, our team guide, was a good sport and tried his best to keep us all on schedule. He was knowledgeable, interesting and entertaining. I am not sure that he liked the driver though. There seemed to be some tension between them. I thought the Dingle peninsula area was spectacular. I loved the sheep dog demo, the farm visits and nature visits throughout. The hotels were all comfortable and clean. The breakfasts were plentiful. The entertainment options were lovely.

Focus on Ireland (Classic, 7 Days)

Fantastic director, great stops and awesome coach

Introduction to Ireland

Our tour guide was Tiarnan....he was excellent and had a wealth of knowledge. I would definitely go with Globus again!! :)

What people love about Southern Ireland Tours

This was my first time in Ireland. I absolutely loved everything about this trip. Tour guide and bus driver were amazing. Totally worth every penny. Would go back in a heartbeat

The entire trip was wonderful, very well organized, and satisfying. Peter Flood was an excellent tour guide. He was as knowledgeable as could be, funny, and helpful; and really seems to love what he does.

Exceeded my expectations. Culture, landscapes, language, history, activities…so much in just a week. Accommodations were very comfortable, food was delicious and plentiful, people were welcoming and generous. Our guide (Pat O’Mara) made the entir3 experience an absolute joy. He was knowledgeable, told stories and histories in a folksy and humorous tone. He was competent, flexible, and inspired with a clear love of his own country that made us love it too.

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The Ultimate Ireland Road Trip Itinerary and Travel Guide

• Last Updated: February 5, 2024

The ultimate guide to planning an epic Ireland road trip itinerary!

We’ve been lucky enough to explore countless countries, and it’s fair to say that it takes a lot to impress us.

But when we visited the Emerald Isle and explored the country on a two-week Ireland road trip, it honestly took our breath away.

Ireland boasts a rugged coastline, rolling pastures, picturesque lakes, quaint villages and some of the friendliest people we’ve ever met.

It also has more pubs per capita than any country we’ve ever travelled to, and we knew that was going to help cement Ireland in our list of favourite countries ever.

When we found out we were heading to Ireland in October to speak at the TBEX Europe conference we decided to rent a campervan and do an epic road trip around the country.

Ireland had been at the top of Alesha’s list of must-visit destinations since she was a kid, and we couldn’t be more excited to finally explore the European nation.

Having travelled in a campervan around Canada, Australia and Chile we knew that it was definitely the best way to see a country, and with the stories we had heard from travellers about the landscapes in Ireland we were sold on the van life.

After some research we found out the best campervan company in Ireland is Bunk Campers , and we decided to get something a bit more luxurious for our journey.

All the campervans we had owned or rented over the years were just basic vans, with a small bed and tiny kitchens.

This time we rented a fully kitted out campervan, and it was nice to have luxuries like running water, hot showers, a toilet (only number ones!!!) , a heater (so good on those cold mornings) and a dining table to sit at.

Once we picked up our campervan in Dublin we had two weeks for road tripping Ireland the best we could.

Of course two weeks is nowhere near enough time to see everything on a road trip in Ireland, but we were lucky that we had about eight days beforehand as well to see more of Kerry County, Dublin and Ireland’s Ancient East.

What we did see though made us fall in love with Ireland even more, and we’re already making plans on returning in the near future for a longer trip.

Here’s our guide, including tips, highlights and our full Ireland road trip itinerary.

Table of Contents

The Ring of Kerry

Ireland’s ancient east, donegal’s wild atlantic way, loop head peninsula, the giant’s causeway, achill island, the ring of beara, day 1 – dublin to wexford (150km), day 2 – wexford to cork (190km), day 3 – cork to kenmare via the ring of beara (200km), day 4 – kenmare to killarney via the ring of kerry (140km), day 5 – killarney, day 6 – killarney to tralee via dingle (160km), day 7 – tralee to lahinch via loop head (160km), day 8 – lahinch to galway via doolin (100km), day 9 – galway to achill island via kylemore abbey (200km), day 10 – achill island to donegal via ballina (220km), day 11 – donegal to londonderry via slieve league and malin head (250km), day 12 – londonderry to belfast via the giant’s causeway (190km), day 13 – belfast, day 14 – belfast to howth (or dublin) via newgrange (180km), want to save this for later pin it, 8 highlights of our ireland road trip.

Our Ireland road trip was an incredible experience, and we really fell in love with the country after our 2 weeks driving around.

We even took a quick trip into Northern Ireland (which is actually a part of the United Kingdom) , and we’re glad we did, as it added some other great stops into our itinerary.

From the famous Giant’s Causeway to the Kerry Cliffs, exploring the history of Ireland’s Ancient East to walking through the Dark Hedges, these are the highlights of our Ireland Road Trip.

Want to know where to go on a road trip in Ireland? Read on…

Arguably the best driving loop in the entire country, the Ring of Kerry starts off near Killarney in the southwest of the country and takes in the beautiful coastal scenery of the Iveragh Peninsula.

If you leave from Killarney the Ring of Kerry is about 214km long, not including all the detours, but every single kilometre of that is an absolute joy.

Check out these epic day tours and activities you can do in Killarney !

Head in a clockwise direction from Killarney, straight to Kenmare and then onwards to Sneem. This is to avoid the tour buses, which are forced to drive in an anti-clockwise direction.

Every time you see a photo opportunity make sure you grab it! The landscape is out of this world, and ranges from sprawling farmland to lush forest, with jagged mountain peaks and a dramatic coastline topping it off.

The highlight is the Kerry Cliffs near Portmagee, with towering rocks dropping spectacularly into the sea, and you can even see the famous Skellig Islands in the distance on a clear day.

If you have the time, and the weather is nice, make sure you take a trip to the Skelligs, home to puffins and landscapes that can be seen in the latest Star Wars movie.

The Ring of Kerry roads are extremely narrow, so make sure you drive with care.

While the rest of the country boasts a world class coastline and jaw-dropping landscapes, for those with a love of culture and history then Ireland’s Ancient East is a destination where one day can easily turn into seven.

You can begin your journey in this fascinating area with a night (or more) at Waterford, delving into the Viking history that has been around for over 1000 years. Don’t miss out on the King of the Vikings virtual reality exhibition!

Head to Wexford and take a tour of the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience. This authentic, interactive exhibition of what it was like to travel in an immigrant ship (complete with the actual Dunbrody ship!) back in the 1700s is absolutely remarkable, and while we are usually dubious of recreations, this was world class!

Enniscorthy is a gorgeous heritage village that was also home to centuries of sometimes tragic history.

The castle is well worth visiting, but don’t miss out on the views from Vinegar Hill, which was actually the location of a fierce battle between British and Irish soldiers in 1798.

Hook Lighthouse is the oldest operational lighthouse in the world, and if you’re looking for an iconic photo you’d be hard-pressed to find a better place than here.

By far the best attraction in Ireland’s Ancient East is the Irish National Heritage Park .

This sprawling venue has been built to showcase more than 9000 years of Irish history. Kids and adults alike will be completely entranced by walking around the traditional dwellings that have been recreated on the grounds.

Passionate actors share stories of what it was like to live in the times when humans first settled in the Emerald Isle, and the hardships endured over the years.

To complete the experience don’t miss out on a traditional Viking dinner in the restaurant. Expect ribs cooked underground on coals, hearty soups and fresh bread, all washed down with craft beer!

You’ll be required to dress up in old-fashion clothes as well, but don’t worry about the quality of food – it’s absolutely impeccable, and much healthier and tastier than would have been found back in the day.

The entire west coast of Ireland has become known as the Wild Atlantic Way , and the slick marketing campaign by the tourism board isn’t without just cause – It’s absolutely phenomenal, and should be the main objective of any Ireland road trip.

One of the more incredible, yet often skipped, areas of the country is Donegal County up in the far north of the Republic of Ireland.

The town of Donegal itself is enjoyable, with some great pubs, cafes and restaurants to keep you entertained, but it’s only when you hit the coast that you start to see the county’s true potential.

Slieve League is the main attraction, with its marvellous hiking trails that offer stellar views over the Atlantic Ocean and cliffs that almost rival the ones found in Kerry.

The drive out to Meencarrick is superb, and it is one of the nicest coastal routes in the country. Don’t miss driving out to the headland for some hiking next to the cliffs.

The entire length of ocean roads in Donegal is great, but make a special detour to Malin Head, the northernmost point in the Republic of Ireland (even further north than Northern Ireland).

It will be super windy, but the views are great and the bucolic roads to get there are alone worth the trip.

In the list of big attractions in Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher are right near the top. These soaring, vertical rock faces tumble into the sea, and stretch for kilometres like an impenetrable barrier against the Atlantic.

They are also supremely crowded with tourists.

Instead head a bit further south to the Loop Head Peninsula, where you can find similar landscapes and scenery with no entrance fee charged, and almost nobody else to get in the way.

You won’t find fences here either. If you want to walk right up to the edge of the cliffs, you can (just be careful).

If you have time, do both. But if you just want to choose one, skip the Cliffs of Moher and instead hit up Loop Head Peninsula.

Although the Giant’s Causeway is actually in Northern Ireland, it is still one of the best places on the Emerald Isle and should not be missed during your road trip itinerary.

Thousands of basalt, hexagonal columns rise out of the sea creating one of the most magnificent geological environments in the United Kingdom.

Legend has it that a giant built the Causeway as a path to connect Ireland with Scotland so he could take part in a fight, and if you use your imagination you can almost picture the columns forming a bridge between the two nations.

Walking around the Giant’s Causeway can easily take a few hours, with plenty of great photo opportunities and even some hiking trails around to occupy your time.

The audio tour that can be purchased from the wonderful visitors centre tells the legend, geology and history of the Giant’s Causeway, and is worth the price.

If you’re trying to keep your costs down though you can actually visit the Giant’s Causeway for free. Park in the closest town and hitch or take a bus to the site, then walk around the visitors centre.

When we were driving around Ireland we met one or two people that had mentioned a place called Achill Island, but it never came up as a ‘must do’ in our conversations.

Still, when we realised it would only be a short detour to check it out, we decided we had nothing to lose by making the visit.

It was one of the best decisions we made.

Achill Island is an absolute delight, and boasts ridiculously beautiful beaches, wonderful headlands, quaint fishing villages and fun adventure activities to enjoy.

After crossing over on the bridge we drove to the end of the road, and couldn’t believe the kind of views that surrounded us.

Sheep wandered on the steep farmland with an impossible ocean vista rolling out in every direction. Hills climbed all around us, offering great hiking for those feeling active.

We ended up watching sunset from a water reservoir that looked out over the whole town of Keel, and finding a place to camp next to an inland lake close by.

With more time you could rent some surfboards or kites and hit the ocean, or head up into the mountains for some trekking.

When we return to Ireland we’ll definitely be giving Achill Island a bigger portion of our schedule.

The Ring of Kerry is the go-to for road trips in Ireland, but the nearby Ring of Beara is just as beautiful, without the people.

Just like its neighbour, the Ring of Beara is a coastal loop that takes in the absolute best vistas of the Beara Peninsula.

You’ll find sheep grazing on pastures that butt up against the ocean. The roads twist and wind like a snake weaving through a field, and requires a lot of concentration to navigate.

Unfortunately the weather was quite bad on the day we did the Ring of Beara, but even then whenever we did get a glimpse of the landscape we were absolutely blown away.

Stonehenge might be the most famous Neolithic site in the United Kingdom and Ireland, but it definitely isn’t the oldest.

Only a few hours north of Dublin is the spectacular Newgrange archaeological site; a huge, circular stone structure that was built over 5200 years ago as a passage tomb and temple.

Approaching Newgrange is not what you would expect. It is surrounded by farmland, and you can see cows and sheep walking around just on the other side of the fence. But the site itself is wonderful.

The main tomb takes up over an acre of land, and stands 15m tall with an 85m diameter. It’s part of a larger complex as well, surrounded by other tombs named Knowth and Dowth.

One of the most remarkable things about Newgrange is that the entrance passage is aligned to let in a beam of light during sunrise during the winter solstice.

Guides can show you this phenomenon at any time of year though using flashlights.

You must head to the Visitors Centre to purchase your tickets first, which is actually a bit far away from the Newgrange site.

They offer free bus transport with your ticket from the Visitors Centre to Newgrange, but we recommend taking your own car to the site.

We didn’t know you could do this and spent almost 2 hours total waiting – not because of crowds, but because that was just the way the bus schedule worked. Save yourself the headache and drive your own car to the site.

Ireland Road Trip Itinerary

We ended up renting our campervan to try and find the best Ireland road trips for two weeks and managed to see a lot of the country.

However it did end up being a bit rushed, and you could easily extend this to a month if you wanted to do all the amazing side trips and hiking excursions around.

This is the exact itinerary that we followed, although where possible we’ve given alternatives that might be worth spending the night in.

Our trip was plagued with storms and a hurricane (yes, a hurricane), so we had to skip a few things.

We don’t mention many places to stay, because most of the time we slept in our campervan, and you can find your own spots along the way, or stay in any one of the dozens of epic B&Bs in the country .

We’ll definitely be adding to our list once we do our next Ireland road trip.

Once you’ve picked up your campervan in Dublin (and of course visited the Guinness Storehouse, which is a must see) head out of the city aiming for the town of Wexford in Ireland’s Ancient East.

The drive itself won’t be overly beautiful, but chances are you’ve picked up the rental in the afternoon and the goal is to just get out of the city.

In Wexford and the surrounding area there are plenty of things to do that could take up a few days of your itinerary. Some of the best things to do around Wexford are:

• Visit the Dunbrody Famine Ship Experience in Wexford.
• Do the King of the Vikings Experience in Waterford.
• Go to Hook Lighthouse.
• Spend a few hours at Dunmore Adventure Centre , which has a tonne of activities to enjoy, like kayaking, sailing, climbing, windsurfing, and our absolute favourite, the Wibit Waterpark. Ever seen the show Wipeout? Well Dunmore East has one of these giant inflatable parks set up out in the harbour! One of the funnest things we have ever done.
• Hang out at Ireland’s National Heritage Park.
• Go cycling along the Waterford Greenway.
• Hang out in Enniscorthy and climb Vinegar Hill.

You can take your time driving to Cork and visit some of the great attractions in the area, or just enjoy the beautiful country scenery.

Get out and enjoy the beautiful coastal walks around Ardmore, and have lunch at the phenomenal Cliff House Hotel.

The roads are quite good and Cork itself is a fun city. Plenty of great pubs and restaurants to enjoy, and some great attractions nearby:

• Visit Blarney Castle and kiss the famous Blarney Stone. Also don’t forget to spend some time walking around the stunning grounds.
• Eat at Cliff House Hotel…Trust us on this one.
• See the colourful houses in Cobh.

Leave early on this day because the plan is to tackle the beautiful Ring of Beara driving loop on the way to Killarney.

From Cork take the backroads to Ballylickey, then head onto the Beara Peninsula. You’ll be thankful you left early because this loop will take you all day with all the photo stops.

Once you finish the loop spend the night in Kenmare, which is a beautiful little village.

Some of the main attractions along the way are:

• Drive the spectacular Ring of Beara.
• Walking around Kenmare.

After a delicious breakfast in Kenmare head west onto the Ring of Kerry, and make sure those camera batteries are charged!

This loop is the most famous, and arguably the most beautiful, drive in all of Ireland, and if you get a sunny day it might end up being one of the best road trips of your life!

If you’re into hiking, or want to do some of the day excursions around the Ring of Kerry you might need to break up your trip into two or three days.

• Visit the Skelligs – Two rocky islands off the coast of Ireland home to an old monastery, puffins, and was used as a film scene in the latest Star Wars movie.
• Hike around the Kerry Cliffs.
• Hang out at Derrynane Beach.

Be careful of the roads along the Ring of Kerry – they are twisting, narrow and often busy with tour buses!

After a few days of driving you deserve a well-earned rest. Except you’re now in Killarney, and there are so many things to do in Killarney that you could easily fill a week with activities!

We spent 4 days in Killarney before we started our road trip, and loved it so much we came back! You’ll be spoilt for choice here, whether you’re into history, gardens, adventure activities or simply drinking beer.

• Rent a bicycle and explore Killarney National Park.
• Go on a river cruise .
• Visit Ross Castle and the Abbey.
• Check out Muckross House and the gardens.
• Get into nature at Torc Waterfall.
• Head out to the Gap of Dunloe and admire the world-class scenery.
• Drink delicious beer at Killarney Brewing Company.
• Climb Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest mountain.

If you want to splash out and enjoy a night outside of your campervan, then head to the best luxury hotel in Killarney, Muckross Park Hotel .

Once you’ve managed to pry yourself away from Killarney (it might take a while), you have another epic drive to check out on your Ireland road trip.

Drive out to Dingle, a wonderful town that would make a nice base for a day or two, and move out to the end of the Dingle Peninsula.

This captivating area is home to the Slea Head Drive, another magnificent loop that features rolling hills jutting up against steep ocean cliffs.

As you’re now on the Wild Atlantic Way you can expect to see more than your fair share of coastal scenes, but this one around Slea Head is pretty special.

It’s not just cool scenery – there’s also a bunch of history, with stone beehive huts peppered along the coast and the impeccable Gallarus Oratory adding to the awesomeness of Slea Head Loop.

Spend the night in Tralee after doing some of the best attractions around Dingle:

• Head out on the Slea Head Drive.
• Visit the Gallarus Oratory, and all the beehive huts along the way.
• Drink some Dingle Gin.
• Do a boat trip to see Fungie the Dolphin.

Today isn’t a long day driving, and you really have two options on how you want to head to Lahinch – you could take the ferry, creating an excellent short cut, or drive out to the city of Limerick.

We personally decided to skip Limerick, even though we had heard good things, as we much prefer to be in the countryside. Plus there’s a massive highlight to see along the way!

While it’s only a short drive today your timing will be dependent on the ferry schedule that gets you across the small harbour from Tarbert to Killimer. Make sure you get there early in case you have to wait.

Once you get on the other side drive out to Loop Head Peninsula, home to some of the most wonderful cliffs in the entire country, and they’re completely free!

If you have time, or really love cliffs, you could also do the Cliffs of Moher, although these are very touristy. Spend the night in Lahinch, a wonderful beach town with a colourful main street.

• Take the ferry from Tarbert to Killimer.
• Drive out to Loop Head Peninsula and see the cliffs.
• Visit the Cliffs of Moher.
• Rent a surfboard and hit the waves in Lahinch.

On this day we unfortunately had to wipe all the attractions from our schedule as a hurricane hit the country, and we ended up bunkering down in the small town of Ennis to wait out the storm.

However if we had our time again, we would drive from Lahinch to Doolin, which is meant to be an amazing little beach village that gets a lot of rave reviews from our friends.

Then keep following the coast, eventually finishing up in Galway.

This stretch also could be turned into a two-day journey, with all the things to do.

• Take a boat out to the Aran Islands, a World Heritage Site where the locals speak Irish as well as English and ancient, ruined churches are just waiting to be explored.
• Grab a pint in one of Doolin’s colourful pubs.
• Follow the sea and enjoy the Wild Atlantic Way views.
• Go out to Spanish Point.
• Party the night away in Galway.

If you’ve ended up partying a little too hard in Galway you might need to break this journey up into two days, as you’ll be leaving late. But if you’re feeling fresh get a move on early!

The first stop is going to be Kylemore Abbey, a sensational old castle with some of the most beautiful gardens in all of Ireland.

Keep following the road around and make a beeline for Achill Island, where if you’re not careful you may get stuck for a day or two.

• Wander around Kylemore Abbey and the gardens.
• Reach the end of the road on Achill Island and be blown away with the views.
• Take a swim at the beach in Keel.
• If you have more time enjoy all the hiking and surfing opportunities around Achill Island.

The beautiful drive takes in the countryside around Ballycroy, which is surprisingly delightful and has lots of great hiking opportunities.

The area around Ballina has some cool, old friaries, and once you get to Sligo you’ll find tonnes of outdoor adventures to enjoy.

If you have time before settling in Donegal do the drive out to Slieve League, otherwise you can do it in the morning.

Finishing up in Donegal hit up one of the excellent restaurants and down it all with a pint of Guinness.

• Go for a hike in the Ballycroy National Park.
• Visit the 600-year-old friaries near Ballina.
• Head up one of the mountains or lakes in Sligo.

It’s another long drive today, which could also be broken up if you had the time, because the Donegal area has a lot of epic scenery and activities to enjoy.

The first thing you should do is enjoy the coastal drive out towards Slieve League, taking the side roads that turn down into the tiny fishing villages along the way.

Slieve League is hugely impressive, and with more time you could do the hike to the cliffs, or if you’re trying to fit it all in a day you can simply drive to the top and check out the views.

Get back in the car and head straight up to Malin Head, the northernmost point in Ireland. Afterwards head back south towards Londonderry.

We personally headed to Quigley’s Point and stayed at the Foyleside Caravan Park as we needed power to charge our laptops, and we enjoyed the spot.

• Don’t miss out on Slieve League – epic cliffs and gorgeous ocean views.
• The road to Meencarrick has some beautiful, old village and surf beaches to check out.
• Fall in love with the scenery around Glenveagh National Park.
• Stand at the northernmost point of the Republic of Ireland in Malin Head.

You’ll be spending the next few days in Northern Ireland, which means you’ll get to visit one of the United Kingdom’s most popular tourist attractions, the Giant’s Causeway.

Stick as close to the coast as possible on the drive to the Giant’s Causeway, stopping along the way to take some pictures.

Spend a few hours wandering around the famous basalt hexagonal columns, then get back in the car and make the drive into the countryside.

Swing by The Dark Hedges in Ballymoney – an avenue of enormous, twisting beech trees that is one of the most photographed places in the whole country.

It was already a popular spot, but when the HBO series Game Of Thrones filmed a scene there it was propelled into another level of busyness. Still, it’s worth seeing, even if you don’t know anything about the series.

Afterwards head into Belfast for the night, or pick a caravan park outside of town.

• Enjoy the coastal road in Northern Ireland.
• Walk across the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge near Ballintoy.
• Walk (don’t drive) down the Dark Hedges.
• Check out the Giant’s Causeway. Remember you don’t have to pay to enter if you don’t want to visit the information centre or use the carpark.

The Northern Ireland capital is filled with intense history, fascinating murals, a world-class museum and more than its fair share of awesome pubs.

Belfast is a city that oozes with grungy atmosphere, and whether you love it or hate it, you can’t deny that it has an overwhelming character that should be experienced.

We were really looking forward to visiting Belfast, and it did not disappoint. To really appreciate the city though you should be willing to embrace the tragedies of the last few decades, and admire how it has bounced back.

• Spend a few hours in the marvellous Titanic Belfast, known for being one of the world’s leading tourist attractions. Get your ticket here .
• Join a free walking tour of Belfast to learn about the city’s political history.
• Check out the Crumlin Road Gaol.

For the last full day jump on the highway and head south of Belfast. You can easily be in Dublin in 2 hours, but it’s worth stopping off at the Neolithic site of Newgrange.

As mentioned above, Newgrange is one of the real highlights of any Ireland road trip, and learning all about the massive passage tomb is splendid, especially when you consider it’s older than Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids!

If you need to be in Dublin tonight then you can be in the city quite easily, but personally we recommend heading to the fishing village of Howth , only 30 minutes from the city.

Howth is genuinely wonderful, and the perfect place to finish up your Irish road trip. You can park your van by the dock and head out to get fish and chips, or if you want a perfect place to stay head into the only hotel in town (yes, the only hotel in town), King Sitric .

• Visit the ancient Neolithic site of Newgrange.
• Go for a hike around Howth, or enjoy the best seafood in the country at King Sitric Restaurant.

Tips For a Road Trip of Ireland

Driving a campervan around Ireland is definitely the best way to see the country.

Having your own wheels is one thing, but having your own home is the icing on the cake!

Still there are some things you need to keep in mind before you start this fun adventure. For another good reference, check out this article on renting a motorhome in Europe.

Here are some tips for renting a campervan in Ireland.

• Bigger isn’t always better:  The roads in Ireland can be notoriously narrow, and having a giant RV isn’t ideal in the Republic of Ireland. We went with the Aero model from Bunk Campers and it was a good balance of size and comfort, without being too big for the roads.
• Try to free camp where possible:  This is the whole bonus of having a campervan – You get to save on accommodation! In the Republic of Ireland we never had a problem finding a carpark or patch of grass to pull up for the night. We stayed next to a lake in Achill Island, behind a bus station in Ennis, on top of Vinegar Hill and plenty of other spots. It’s not always glamorous, but at least it’s free!
• Sometimes you’ll have to stay in a caravan park: In Northern Ireland wild camping is illegal, so you have to stay in a caravan park. They’re not too expensive (sometimes 20 Euros or less), but they come with the added bonus of amenities like laundry, proper bathrooms, electricity hook ups and wifi.
• Buy a prepaid SIM card from 3: Having data on the road is important, and we picked up a prepaid SIM from the telephone company 3. For 20 Euro we got unlimited 4G data and unlimited texts and calls for a month. We could also hotspot our laptops off of our phone with it. Get one from any 3 store.
• Don’t underestimate driving distances: You might look at one leg and think, “Oh it’s only 150km, we’ll be there in 2 hours,” but that’s not always the case. Road conditions can slow you down, as will the hundreds of photo stops along the way. Don’t be too ambitious when planning your schedule.
• Head south and drive clockwise: The weather in Ireland moves from the Atlantic Ocean and moves across the country heading northeast. A tip we got from the manager at Bunk Campers is to head south to Kerry County and drive clockwise. That way if you get nice weather you can basically follow it north.

[box] Our Ireland road trip adventure was made possible thanks to our partnership with Bunk Campers and support from Failte Ireland . All thoughts, opinions and pints of Guinness drunk at Irish pubs are, as always, our own.[/box]

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Loved reading this post! Really appreciate how comprehensive this all is. helps a lot as we try to figure out a two week itinerary for us taking a car over from France on the ferry!

Best Itinerary and photos.. Thanks for sharing the content.

This itinerary sounds great. It would be helpful to have a map. We are hoping to book vrbo’s along the way. We will rent a car and drive the coastline. Would love any tips.

Hello, I know you shouldn’t drink and drive anywhere but I rather ask the question and be safe. It seems that it would be difficult not to have a beer or two at a pub while in Ireland, so… what is the law regarding alcohol level allowed while driving? also… is there any law against having a bottle of wine or any other spirit in the motorhome to enjoy while parked?

Hi Marcelo, you definitely should not drink drive anywhere as you are putting yourself and other people in danger. You could harm yourself or others. Or worst, you could even kill someone or yourself. Definitely no go in any country.

As for the alcohol limit and the alcohol in the motorhome, we are not too sure. Sorry

Kylemore Abbey is not actually a castle. It is a monastery built on the grounds of the Castle. There are nuns who live there now and it also has a beautiful walled garden.

I am Irish and while you did see a lot on your trip, there is a lot more for you to discover when you next arrive here.

I would love a map of your route! I would also love to know where you parked each night. Did you stay at campsites or just parked in random spots. Thanks

Hi did you have a map. so I can download..it looks amazing.. we are going in April for 2 weeks .just me the wife and ted the dog ..happy holidays steve

Hi Steve, we had downloaded maps.me and the areas we need offline. You can pick up a sim card with data for cheap and we used this. There is great apps to help you plan your trip in Ireland also.

Hi Ashley, we had downloaded maps.me and the areas we need offline. You can pick up a sim card with data for cheap and we used this. We used Safe Nights Ireland to find cheap camping spots and there are many websites on the internet recommending free spots. All the best. Happy planning

Wow, Amazing pictures and fantastic guidelines. Thanks for the share!

Thank you so much. 🙂

Just reading your blog on the ferry from Cairnryan to Belfast with our camper van down below. So thanks for sharing your route with us. We are travelling around the world for a year and have 2 weeks in Ireland on our itinerary.

It would be great if you could also add a screen shot of a google map with your route. That would be helpful for readers to get a picture of your route.

Thanks for the pics and tips.

Hi Carolyn, what a trip. Sounds like you are going to have a great time. We followed the island anti – clockwise but you can definitely make up your route as everyone want to see something different. All the names above are in google and easy to find. There is also an app called Wild Atlantic Way. This is great to route out a road trip also. Have a great

Hola me gusto mucho la ruta en autocaravana por Irlanda, queremos ir en Agosto pero solo tenemos dos semanas incluyendo dia de llegada y salida desde Estados Unidos. Somos 6 y no quisieramos dormir todos los dias en el autocaravana. Cree usted que podamos ir rentando hoteles en el recorrido los dias que nesecitemos o seria complicado ya que es temporada alta?

” Hello, I really liked the motorhome route through Ireland, we want to go in August but we only have two weeks including day of arrival and departure from the United States. We are 6 and we would not like to sleep every day in the motorhome. Do you think we can rent hotels on the tour on the days we need or it would be complicated since it is high season?” comment above

Thank you for your message Yannet. I just translated it above as it may help others too. What a great trip you have planned. In the quieter towns you can easily book a hotel. But in the bigger cities such as Belfast, Killarney, Dublin, Dingle and other popular tourist places you may struggle. Definitely book ahead as your party is large and you know all 6 of you will have accommodation. There are great websites for freedom camping or low cost camping. Have a wonderful trip

Amazing trip – you’ve inspired us to do a week travelling in a campervan with our family in July, but yes only a week. We have family in Dingle to look up so will definitely be heading south and going clockwise. It looks cheaper to hire a campervan from London area (where we live) and ferry over instead of hiring in Ireland. Bit nervous to wild camp but hopefully it will workout! Would we need to pre book any campsites?

Hi Katherine, that is amazing. What a trip it is going to be. Dingle and the surrounding area is stunning. When you rent the camper from London make sure insurance covers you to go over to Ireland and Northern Ireland (if you are planning on going up there also). Personally with one week I would stick to the south and do a loop. There are some stunning drives down there. With wild camping in Ireland, it is illegal but tolerated. Just obey the leave no trace policy (even toilet paper). There is a a website called Safe Nights Ireland where you can park in peoples properties for a small fee if that feels better for you. If you are in a city and need to find a campground check out Camping Ireland website. Here is a great article below about camping in Ireland. If you do plan to stay in a campground definitely pre book as July may be busy. Have a great family trip and take lots of photos. 🙂

https://www.bunkcampers.com/en/holiday-advice/camping-guide/wild-camping/

Ireland road trip is very attractive to enjoy with awesome memories.

It definitely is. It is a stunning country. 🙂

We will be cruising with stops in Belfast, Dublin and Cork…Any suggestions of where to start a road trip as I don’t think we will need to go back to these places.

Hi Christine, Starting in Dublin and do a little loop of the south heading back past Dublin and then a loop in the north. When you do rent, make sure you can take the rental car/camper into Northern Ireland. Sometimes there are issues. Hope I answered your question. Let me know if I didn’t. Have a great trip.

Awesome recall of your trip! I am heading there next week and getting a campervan as well. Considering I have never traveled this way, reading stories like yours makes me even more excited!

So awesome. You will have a blast. We love Ireland. It was a lot of fun with the campervan. Have a great time and watch those tight Irish roads. It can get a little crazy sometimes.

This sounds amazing! I’m planning a trip (in July) to Ireland- but will only have 4 days 🙁 eek. Going to be a challenge to decide on which places to visit! (will most likely hire a car though to get around)

Hi Mel, so awesome you are heading to Ireland. Your trip is short but doesn’t mean you can’t see some awesome places. There is a lot to do and see. There are tour companies that will do trips up or down to place. Just be prepared for full on days with incredible views. If you don’t want it to be so hectic there is a lot to do around Dublin. Have an amazing trip and you can head back there in the future. 🙂

Your photos are gorgeous! Thank you for sharing! I love traveling by campervan, so it’s great to know that is an option in Ireland.

Thanks so much Veronica. Ireland is a perfect place to campervan.

Stunning photographs! I love this post and so much detail. I am from the UK and still haven’t made it over to Ireland! Hopefully in the near future though! Thanks for sharing and the huge inspiration!

Thank you so much Mike. Ireland is amazing. Such a beautiful country. You will be amazed. Hope you get there soon. Happy travels.

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The Ultimate 7 and 8 day driving tour of Ireland

Last summer we took a road trip around Ireland with the aim to see as much of the country as possible with the limited time we had. Overall we wanted to spend around 7 or 8 days in Ireland, and we wanted to use that time to drive around and see the sights. Ireland is the perfect place to do a road trip, even if some of the roads are narrow and, you have to wait a good 10 minutes to let a farmer and his cattle cross to the other side on occasion (true story). But the things you will see are unforgettable.

Starting in Dublin and ending in Sligo we have put together this 7 and 8 day Ireland itinerary. We list all the key spots that we think you should visit, as well as where to stay and how much money you might need.

Here is our ultimate driving tour of Ireland to help you plan your own trip in the future. We have included a, 7 days in Ireland itinerary as well as an 8 day Ireland itinerary if you do have a little extra time. 

Disclaimer : This post contains affiliate links, so if you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.

Ireland Itinerary Factsheet

7 days in ireland or 8 days how long do you really need, 8 day driving tour of ireland, less time what about a 7 day ireland itinerary, ireland 7 & 8 day self drive itinerary and tips on renting a car, tips for planning your ireland 7 & 8 day self drive itinerary, day 1, wicklow mountains & glendalough, day 2, kilkenny , day 3, rock of cashel & cork, day 4, blarney castle, bantry, & killarney , day 5, killarney national park, ring of kerry & tralee, day 6, cliffs of moher & galway, day 7, aran islands & galway, day 8, sligo  , how much money do i need for my 8 days in ireland, what currency do i need for my 8 days in ireland, ireland itinerary 7 & 8 days- a recap.

Capital: Dublin

Currency: Euros

Famous for: Guinness, Whisky, Greenery, Pubs

Visit if you like: Quaint places, enjoying nature, folk stories,

  Also known as: The Emerald Isle

Ireland is known as the Emerald because of its rolling green fields, and if you love nature, and the great outdoors then you really should start planning your 7/8 days in Ireland immediately.

Ireland might not be big especially compared to say the likes of the USA, but there are hundreds of different accents in the country. Also, there are two official languages in Ireland, Gaelic and English. Don’t worry though English is spoken pretty much everywhere, but you will notice road signs in both languages.

And if you are wondering if Ireland is worth visiting this is a handy post.

If you are wondering how long you need in Ireland well the honest answer is the longer the better. 7 days in Ireland seems to be the more common timeframe among people we speak to. It allows for a full week of exploring the country, and tasting the delicious food and drink on offer, before heading home. We did a full 8 days before flying back to the UK but seriously we could have spent way longer here. 

Here is a quick plan of our 8 day Ireland itinerary which we will go into more detail about below:

Day 1- Wicklow Mountains & Glendalough

Day 2- Kilkenny

Day 3 – Rock of Cashel & Cork

Day 4- Blarney Castle, Bantry & Killarney

Day 5 – Killarney National Park, Ring of Kerry & Tralee

Day 6 – Cliffs of Moher & Galway

Day 7 – Aran Islands and Galway

Day 8 – Sligo

For more Irish inspiration you can also check out our Ireland bucket list .

A lot of people tend to spend 7 days in Ireland rounding their time off to a solid week. If this is the case then you will need to cut out a couple of the stops we have listed above. We will go into more detail below on each stop and provide suggestions on where to save time, but we would recommend cutting out a day in Kilkenny if you want to plan a 7 day Ireland itinerary. 

7 Days in Ireland Day 1- Wicklow Mountains & Glendalough (Great for a break if you are driving from Dublin)

7 Days in Ireland Day 2 – Rock of Cashel & Cork (Cork is an absolute must when visiting Ireland so you don’t want to miss out if you can help it)

7 Days in Ireland Day 3- Blarney Castle, Bantry & Killarney (The Blarney Castle should be high on your list, especially if you are after the ‘gift of the gab’. If you are short on time though you can skip Bantry as it is a little further out.)

7 Days in Ireland Day 4 – Killarney National Park, Ring of Kerry & Tralee (Killarney National Park, and Ring of Kerry are great for hikes and gorgeous scenery, and Tralee is a good place to rest your head for the evening before heading towards Galway). 

7 Days in Ireland Day 5 – Cliffs of Moher & Galway (The Cliffs of Moher are absolutely stunning, and even though they are super touristy a trip to Ireland would not be complete without a visit).

7 Days in Ireland Day 6 – Aran Islands and Galway (For a real Irish experience you should see the Aran Islands, although this does mean another night spent in Galway, so again if you are short for time this might be worth skipping).

7 Days in Ireland Day 7 – Sligo (Sligo might be a small town but the county itself is full of natural beauty and it really is Ireland’s best kept secret. If you are looking for an Irish experience with few tourists Sligo is a must). 

Before you start to plan your Ireland 7 & 8 day self drive itinerary here are a few tips that you should bear in mind when renting a car.

☘ The majority of cars in Ireland are manual (use a gear stick) so if you want an automatic car arrange this in advance.

☘ If you are planning to drive in Northern Ireland be aware that it is kilometres in the Republic and miles in the North.

☘ Bigger is not always better in terms of car size in Ireland. The roads can be quite narrow at times so keep this in mind.

☘ If you rent a car and return it at a different location as mentioned in this post then you will be charged a fee for dropping the car off in a different location. It was not a big deal during our 8 days in Ireland but with shorter trips you will notice the cost.

☘ We recommend booking your accommodation in advance. We then knew where we were staying each night and didn’t have to worry about places being full. You can book your accommodation through hotels.com for some great deals.

☘It is better to plan your 8 day Ireland itinerary in advance so that you have a clear idea of where you want to go and how to get there.

☘Allow time to make unscheduled stops too.

What to see in Ireland in 7 & 8 days

Here is our guide on what to see in Ireland in 8 days and a sample itinerary for you to use. If you are looking for a 7 day Ireland itinerary you will need to cut one of the days out.

After an incredibly delayed flight we landed in Dublin Airport and collected our rental car. If you do rent a car remember that bigger isn’t always better. Some of the roads in Ireland are rather narrow so our advice is pick something economical and small.

On this trip we decided to give Dublin a miss mostly because we were short on time, and had been there several times in the past. In fact you can read about that  right here .

After navigating the motorways we left Dublin with haste and began our drive through the Wicklow Mountains. We stopped a lot to take pictures and soak up the views of this rugged hilly land. The drive really is beautiful and what made it even more special was that we passed so few cars on the journey. Although that is probably a good thing considering the width of the road in some parts.

Things to do in the Wicklow Mountains

Some of the top things to do in the Wicklow Mountains/ County Wicklow that you can add to your 7/8 Day Ireland itinerary are:

• Climb Sugarloaf Mountain
• Drive to the Blessington Lakes for some quiet time
• Head to Ballinastoe for some incredible views. There are a number of scenic walks you can do around here.
• Explore Powerscourt House and Gardens and visit the Powerscourt waterfall

Eventually we arrived at Glendalough which literally means Valley of the two lakes. The site is probably best know for its monastic heritage. It’s a great place to walk around especially by the lough and it is one of those places that gives you a sense of inferiority that can only be felt by standing next to something so beautiful. Glendalough also makes for a great day trip from Dublin too .

Things to do in Glendalough

Here are some of the top things to do when visiting Glendalough:

• Glendalough monastic site
• Hike the upper and lower lakes
• Visit the Whiskey Distillery

Where to stay

We spent the evening in Avoca, a very small town in County Wicklow. Avoca was great because it was very quiet and not massively touristy. It kind of had that whole Irish countryside vibe. Alternatively you can stay closer to Glendalough though but do make sure you book well in advance as accommodation can fill up quite fast.

We decided the spend the second day in Kilkenny and spent the morning driving to the town. It was a great opportunity to explore the city and participate in a well earned pub crawl. One of the most prominent sights in Kilkenny is the Castle, which also has an incredible rose garden you can walk around in. If you are looking for a drink, we stumbled upon Kyteler’s Inn (and stumbled back out of after a few drinks) which was recommended to us by the locals. Kilkenny is a great place to explore and has a fantastic cafe culture. So don’t forget to walk around those back streets for a true taste of the town. Read more on Kilkenny here.

Things to do in Kilkenny

Here is a rundown on some of the best things to do in Kilkenny that you can add to your 8 days in Ireland.

• Visit Kilkenny Castle and wander around the gorgeous rose garden
• Do a boat tour and admire the views
• Do a historical walking tour to learn more about this medieval city
• Do a hysterical historical walking tour!
• Visit the National Design and Craft Gallery
• St Mary’s Cathedral
• Medieval Mile Museum
• Explore the Rothe House and Gardens a historical museum
• St. Canice’s Cathedral

Where to stay in Kilkenny

Kilkenny is only small so if you stay in the centre you won’t be far from the main tourist spots. There are a range of accommodation options from high end hotels to budget B&Bs.

Another early start as we drove towards the Rock of Cashel, a historic site located in County Tipperary. But of course not before stopping for a traditional Irish Breakfast close to the site.

We clambered up to the entrance alongside the dozens of passengers who were emptying out of the tourbuses. It was a beautiful site and we were lucky enough to be standing in the ruins of the cathedral when a choir broke out into full song.

If you love history then you will love visiting the Rock of Cashel. Just make sure you try and arrive early because it does get swarmed with tourists. It really is a beautiful place to explore and take in some of the history that makes Ireland what it is. There are a few walks you can go on around the Rock of Cashel as well, so don’t forget your camera and some walking shoes. Oh and it is Ireland after all so maybe an umbrella too!

Moving on we headed to Cork, a very colourful and contemporary city located in the Southwest of Ireland. It’s also a vibrant city full of quirky bars and restaurants. Our highlights included a visit to the English Market where they sell locally produced foods. If you have time we recommend doing a historical walking tour in the city to learn absolutely everything you can.

We also visited St Anne’s Church where you can ring the bells, and make your way to the top of the church for a 360 degree view of the city. Just a word of warning this is not ideal if you are claustrophobic or afraid of heights (or both). It can get pretty tight climbing up and I’m pretty sure at some point we had to negotiate our way around a giant church bell. You do get giant noise cancelling headphones to wear as the bell is still in use so make sure you use them. One of our favourite things though was ringing those church bells. There is a book and it tells you which rope to pull to play certain songs. I tried my hand at Walzting Matilda and failed miserably.

Things to do in Cork

Here are the highlights of things to do in Cork:

• Stroll through the English Market
• Visit the Crawford Municipal Art Gallery
• Visit Cork City Gaol
• Do a food tasting tour
• Explore St Fin Barre’s Cathedral
• Enjoy a harbour cruise
• Ring the Bells at St Anne’s Church
• Do a Cork Harbour cruise
• Do a historical guided tour

If you are tossing up between Dublin and Cork , here is a handy guide.

For more Cork tips make sure you read our post here .

Where to stay in Cork

This 7/8 day Ireland itinerary only really covers a day in Cork. Because of that we recommend staying in the city centre. You are smack bang in the middle of all the hustle and bustle as well as several bars and restaurants. Make sure you book accommodation in advance for the cheapest rates.

On to day 4 where I have to stress no trip to Ireland is complete without a trip to Blarney Castle. The weather wasn’t great when we arrived but this did not deter us. The must do thing at Blarney Castle is of course kissing the Blarney Stone. To get to the stone you must first walk up to the top of the castle via a very narrow and winding staircase. Once at the peak you join a line of fellow kissers and wait. You lay on your back and reach out to kiss the stone which is suspended over a severe drop. Unfortunately my fear of heights got the better of me, although Dave did manage to do it. His reward was ‘the gift of the gab’ or so it is foretold (which he hasn’t shut up about).

It is also worth exploring the Castle grounds. There are some beautiful gardens to get lost in, and being Ireland a lot of green places to take pictures.

Armed with this new gift of the gab though we left Blarney castle and we drove to the seaside town of Bantry. We parked up and got to spend a little bit of time walking around breathing in the sea air and feasting on some very fresh fish and chips. We were then mobbed by seagulls and had to eat the rest of the food in the car.

Bantry is a really beautiful place to visit. There are so many seaside walks to go on, and if you get the chance make sure you explore some of the quaint back streets.

Things to do in Bantry

• Bantry House and Gardens
• Get a ferry to Garnish Island
• Whale watching

Traumatised by our seagull attack (and yes I know it was my fault)  but still going strong we drove to Killarney, a very touristy and quaint town. The town was filled with pubs and restaurants and you could even travel by horse drawn carriage around the town if you really wanted to. It was the perfect place to have a nice traditional Irish meal and sip a few pints before going to bed. If you are looking for more ideas for things to do in Killarney we have this post .

Where to stay in Killarney

Killarney might be small but it certainly has a fantastic atmosphere. We wanted to stay in the centre for this reason, but unfortunately because we had a car we had to stay about a 10 minute walk away from the centre. Just something to think about when planning your own 7/ 8 days in Ireland.

Killarney is the perfect place to base yourself if you plan to drive the Ring of Kerry. We woke up early had a full Irish breakfast and set off to do the Ring of Kerry. You can read about it in more detail here.

But first when you leave Killarney you will find yourself driving through Killarney National Park. Driving through you are surrounded by giant trees and moss covered rocks. There are so many walks you can do around the park and our highlight was walking around Torc Waterfall which is at the base of Torc Mountain.

Also not to be missed is Ladies View, where you can stop off and enjoy some sweeping views of the mountains and lakes that make up Killarney National Park. There is a conveniently located cafe here too in case you need some sustenance on your journey.

Things to do in Killarney National Park

• Muckross House and Gardens
• Torc Waterfall
• Ross Castle
• Ladies View
• Do a Lakes of Killarney boat cruise
• Gap of Dunloe tour

The national park also forms part of the Ring of Kerry route. The Ring of Kerry is a scenic drive around the Iveragh Penninsula in County Kerry. You pass through incredible mountainous terrain, as well as crystal clear ocean water. This was one part of the drive where we stopped a lot and had to switch up the driving frequently.

We trailed off before completing the full ring and spent the evening in Tralee which gave us a good start for the following days journey.

Another must see in Ireland are of course the Cliffs of Moher. At a maximum height the cliffs are 214 meters high. The day we visited was quite overcast and they do allow you to use your ticket on another day if this is the case. As we were pushed for time we couldn’t take advantage of this, but luckily the rain cleared up for a short time while we visited.

You can read all about our adventures at the Cliffs of Moher here .

Leaving the cliffs and the rain behind we then headed to Galway. A stunning harbour city, Galway is an excellent place to experience some Irish culture. From its fine dining and seafood restaurants to it’s quirky Irish bars, Galway is a popular tourist destination. The Latin Quarter is one of the more lively places to go out and experience some of these bars and restaurants. It is also full of buskers and jovial tourists enjoying this fine city.

Things to do in Galway

• EAT! Galway is a foodies paradise – here is a great food tour you can do
• Enjoy the pub culture – particularly in the Latin Quarter
• Listen to the buskers along Quay Street
• Galway City Museum
• Do a hidden gems bike tour
• Enjoy a Lake Cruise
• Visit Salthill
• Do a Hop On Hop Off bus tour
• Do a walking tour
• Go to a trad music session

Where to stay in Galway

You definitely want to stay somewhere in the centre of Galway especially around the Latin Quarter. There is a lot of entertainment here and it makes for a great night out.

Galway is also the perfect gateway to the Aran Islands . We left our car at the hotel and took a bus out to Rossaveal where ferries depart frequently to the Aran Islands.

We visited Inishmore which is the island accessible from Galway. Once you are on the ferry it usually takes about 45 minutes to reach Inishmore. Do be prepared for choppy waters, as the Atlantic Ocean can be a little fierce at times.

The best way to see the islands in our opinion is to do a bus tour. The guides really know their stuff and will let you in on some insights to what life is really like living on the islands.

After spending the day we arrived back in Galway in the evening, just in time for a few pints and some fantastic seafood. Because of its close proximity to the sea Galway is one of the best places in Ireland for seafood so if you are a fish fan do take advantage.

Our final destination was Sligo, a town along the Wild Atlantic Way coastal route that exudes natural beauty. Sligo is also Yeats Country and this is where the poet was inspired to create some of his best work. Sligo is one of our favourite places in Ireland and really is a hidden gem.

One of the best things about Sligo is that it is not over run by tourists. So you can explore its natural beauty without having to share it with a bus load of tourists.

From serene lakeside walks to forests that are worthy of a thousand picnics for us Sligo is the perfect place to spend your last few days in Ireland.

Sligo is also pretty famous for its surf school, located at Strandhill one of the many beaches Sligo boasts .

It’s about a 40 minute drive to Knock Airport which has regular flights to the UK as well as other European destinations so if you are travelling from the UK its an easy base to fly home from.

Things to do in Sligo

Visit the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery

• Admire Benbulben
• Climb Knocknarea
• Explore Lough Gill
• Visit Sligo Abbey
• Walk around Rosses Point
• Enjoy the surf at Strandhill
• Visit W B Yeats grave at Drumcliffe Parish Church
• Admire the Gleniff Horseshoe

Where to stay in Sligo

We would recommend staying either around Strandhill or Rosses Point, particularly if you want to be close to the beach. Otherwise base yourself in the city centre – just make sure you check if your hotel has parking.

You might be wondering how much money you will need for your 8 days in Ireland. A lot of that is going to depend on what you want to see and do. Ireland can be expensive particularly in places like Dublin.

Keep in mind you will have to budget the following:

Hotels : Average at €90 – €120 per night

Rental Car – €600 average for a week but consider what insurance you are getting and any additional costs

Petrol : Petrol prices are pretty high these days, and it’s hard to gauge the exact cost. This will depend on where you go to fill up (smaller towns are often cheaper) but also how economical your car is.

Other : For things like tourist activities, food, shopping etc, we would probably budget about €100 – €150 between 2 people per day. Again this will depend on where you go to eat, how many activities you want to do, etc.

Ireland is part of the EU and therefore the currency is Euro. One Euro is equivalent to 100 Cents. Euros are made up of a mixture of coins and notes. The coins tend to be Cents so you get 1,2,5,10,20 and 50 Cent coins, as well as a 1 and 2 Euro coin. Notes are made up of 5,10,20,50,100,200, and 500 Euros. With the notes we don’t recommend carrying around the higher denominations as some places won’t take anything over a 50 for security purposes. And honestly, I don’t think we have ever seen a 200 or 500 Euro note! So if you do find one let us know.

You can pay on card for most things in Ireland, but we do recommend carrying some cash on you especially in the smaller towns as some places may only accept cash.

Whether you are looking to spend a full 7 days in Ireland or 8 days in Ireland we hope this itinerary is useful for you. And so our Irish road trip came to an end. We saw and learnt so much, and of course Dave now has the gift of the gab so expect plenty more blog posts on Ireland in the future.

If you have found this guide to 7/ 8 days in Ireland useful please make sure that you pin it for later.

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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Irish Classic Self-Drive

Starting from $2,145

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Circle around the Emerald Isle's breathtaking coasts

Trip details.

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Tour end Dublin

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Featured Attractions

Blarney Castle

Perhaps you'll choose to climb the steep, winding staircase to kiss the famous Stone of Eloquence and see if the legend is true – will it really give you the gift of the gab?

Cliffs of Moher

We recommend you visit to marvel at the stunning views from these cliffs, rising 700 feet above the Atlantic Ocean.

Giant's Causeway

You might visit the Giant's Causeway. Created by volcanic activity 60 million years ago – or, according to Gaelic legend, by a giant – mammoth hexagonal stone columns rise from the earth in a striking formation.

Westport House

You might tour Westport House, an elegant 18th-century home complete with its original contents, including portraits, furniture, silver, and porcelain.

Medieval Castle Banquet

Feast like a lord or lady of old in a genuine medieval castle, enjoying delicious food and music in a fun atmosphere.

Dunbrody Famine Ship

Perhaps you'll choose to explore a replica of the vessel used during the 1840s famine to transport emigrants to North America.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 Dublin

Day 2 belfast, day 3 belfast, day 4 derry, day 5 westport, day 6 westport, day 7 galway, day 8 killarney, day 9 killarney, day 10 waterford, day 11 dublin | taylors three rock, day 12 dublin, day 13 tour ends in dublin, where you’ll stay.

Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin, Ireland

Boasting a garden, a fitness centre as well as a bar, Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin is set in...

Hilton Belfast Hotel Belfast, Northern Ireland

Relax at the Hilton Belfast with an idyllic location on the banks of the Lagan River, only a two-...

Ebrington Hotel

Wyatt Hotel Westport, Ireland

In the heart of Westport, this hotel on the famous Octagon offers lively...

Limerick Strand Hotel Limerick, Ireland

The 4-star Limerick Strand Hotel is the ideal riverside base when exploring the Wild Atlantic Way...

Killarney Plaza Hotel Killarney, Ireland

The 4-star Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa offers elegance in the heart of Killarney Town. Home to...

Granville Hotel Waterford, Ireland

The Granville Hotel in Waterford overlooks the River Suir and is a 5 minute...

Aloft Dublin City Hotel Dublin, Ireland

Set 1,300 feet from St Patrick's Cathedral, Aloft Dublin City is located in Dublin and offers a...

Inclusive Self-Drive Packages

What's included?

• Your hotel stay
• Full daily breakfast and many meals*
• An evening of Irish entertainment
• Your choice of Hertz rental cars
• Complimentary GPS
• One additional driver
• Many of your daily attractions
• All entrance fees to attractions
• Comprehensive travel itinerary

*Breakfast is not included on Day 1

Our welcome gift to you

• A travel backpack
• Travel adapter
• Rain poncho
• Luggage strap and tags
• Documents wallet

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Hyatt Centric The Liberties, Dublin

Boasting a garden, a fitness centre as well as a bar, Hyatt Centric The Liberties Dublin is set in the Dublin City Centre of Dublin, 650 feet from St Patrick's Cathedral. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free Wi-Fi. All guest rooms come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a coffee machine, a shower, a hairdryer and a wardrobe. At the hotel all rooms are fitted with a private bathroom.

• 24-hour Front Desk
• Business Center
• Disabled Facilities
• Dry Cleaning
• Fitness Center
• Wifi in Public Areas (Complimentary)
• Air Conditioned
• Cable/Satellite Television
• Coffee & Tea-making Facilities in Room
• Daily Maid Service
• In-Room Wifi (Complimentary)
• Iron/Ironing Board
• Private Bathroom
• Room Service

Hilton Belfast Hotel, Belfast

Relax at the Hilton Belfast with an idyllic location on the banks of the Lagan River, only a two-minute walk to the city center. Amenities and convenience make this Belfast hotel a favorite for visitors. Take in the river view and dine on Irish and British cuisine at the hotel's Sonoma Restaurant.

Hilton Belfast

• Coffee Shop
• Laundry Facilities
• 24-hour Room Service
• Luggage Racks
• Work Desk & Lamp

King Hilton Guest Room

Ebrington Hotel,

Wyatt hotel, westport.

In the heart of Westport, this hotel on the famous Octagon offers lively entertainment each night and a fine location for enjoying the friendly townand County Mayo. All rooms in the hotel are tastefully decorated, and the delightful bistro-style Wyatt restaurant and JW’s brasserie are perfect for an enjoyable meal. Cobblers Bar & Courtyard allows you to enjoy a Westport welcome over a relaxing drink.

Wyatt Hotel

Limerick Strand Hotel, Limerick

The 4-star Limerick Strand Hotel is the ideal riverside base when exploring the Wild Atlantic Way offering stunning panoramic views overlooking some of Limericks most historical landmarks. The multi-awarding winning hotel offers 184 newly refurbished bedrooms in a purpose-built state-of-the-art facility with complimentary 200mb Wi-Fi as well as 13 meeting rooms, onsite parking, Energize leisure centre & award-winning dining from Executive Chef, Tom Flavin (Fáilte Ireland Food Champion).

Limerick Strand Hotel

• Complimentary Bottled Water

Killarney Plaza Hotel, Killarney

The 4-star Killarney Plaza Hotel & Spa offers elegance in the heart of Killarney Town. Home to an award-winning Spa, a vibrant Cafe Bar, the Tan Yard Restaurant, and designated conference and events spaces, all within beautiful surroundings overlooking Killarney National Park. Take in the graceful, contemporary décor, delivered with an attentive personal hotel service in this luxury hotel in the magical Kingdom of Kerry and at the gateway to the Ring of Kerry & Wild Atlantic Way.

Killarney Plaza Hotel

Granville Hotel, Waterford

The Granville Hotel in Waterford overlooks the River Suir and is a 5 minute walk from St Patrick’s Cathedral. It offers air-conditioned rooms with free internet access, and an award-winning restaurant. Rooms at the Hotel Granville include bathrooms with baths, showers and heated towel racks. They also have safes and there is a 24-hour room service menu. The Bianconi Restaurant overlooks the quayside and serves traditional Irish and international cuisine. 

Granville Hotel

Aloft Dublin City Hotel, Dublin

Set 1,300 feet from St Patrick's Cathedral, Aloft Dublin City is located in Dublin and offers a rooftop bar, restaurant and panoramic views of the city. The property is set 0.7 mi from Guinness Storehouse and 0.6 mi from St. Stephen's Green. Each of the spacious guest rooms feature a 49-inch LCD TV, a walk-in shower and complimentary Bliss toiletries. Free high-speed Wi-Fi is provided throughout the hotel.

Aloft Dublin City Hotel

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Our Southern Loop Tour (7 nights) is a fantastic introductory trip to Éire. This week-long escape draws a ring from Dublin through the south half of the island and back again, stopping in Cork, Kerry, Clare, Galway and the Midlands. Enjoy getting to grips with Ireland’s roads as you explore hills, valleys, mountains and villages behind the wheel of your personal rented car. This self-driving tour of Ireland will leave you dying to visit again!

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Our long self-drive vacations really are something special. These tours are the best of the best, bucket-list entry trips that encompass everything it means to be Irish. When it comes to self driving tours of ireland, these three vacations are cream of the crop.

Our Historical Ireland Tour (11 nights) is designed to showcase the long, rich and colourful past of our fair little island. Ireland is bursting with sites of historical importance, including Kilmainham Gaol and Croagh Patrick. As you drive through cities and countryside you’ll learn more of our struggles and culture, watching the past come to life.

The Wild Atlantic Way (12 nights) is an absolute must-do, once-in-a-lifetime trip. This self-drive vacation stretches from Malin Head to Mizen Head, the northern- and southernmost points in Ireland. Drive alongside the gorgeous coastline, atop cliffs and through coastal towns. This tour is perfect for adventurous souls!

The longest of our Ireland driving tours is The Full Circle (14 nights). This bucket-list vacation is a fortnight long and will take you on a complete journey of Éire. Drive the island yourself, discovering little-known spots and wandering off the beaten path to see Ireland your own way. This vacation will truly be the best one you’ll ever take – we promise!

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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.

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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.

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99+ Free Ireland Self Drive Tours (All Done For You)

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: August 21, 2023

We spent 8 months and €16,000 creating the world’s largest collection of free Ireland self drive tours.

Why? Well, planning an Ireland itinerary can be stressful – especially if you don’t know the lay of the land.

So, we’ve done  all the hard work for you ! Each of our self driving tours of Ireland:

• Can be filtered by length, how fast you like to travel + more
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Some quick need-to-knows about our Ireland self drive tours

WAIT – please take 10 seconds to read the points below before you scroll. It’ll help when it comes to browsing our Ireland self drive tours:

1. They cover every possible angle

We’ve tried to cover every possible want or need with our itineraries. Below, you’ll be able to pick a free driving tour of Ireland based on:

• Trip length : From 2 to 28 days
• Start point : All major ferry terminals and airports in Ireland
• How fast you like to travel : Fast or slow
• Your fitness level:  High fitness or medium-to-low fitness

2. Our free self drive tours vs what other companies charge for

There are countless companies that charge for creating self guided tours of Ireland. You’ll generally pay them a hefty fee and they’ll customise a trip based on your likes and dislikes. Some also help you book hotels along with renting a car in Ireland . 

We  don’t do any of this . We’ve simply created an extensive library of  detailed  road trip itineraries that we  definitely could charge for – but we don’t.

3. Jump to the tour length you want

Right – time to get stuck in! The easiest way to browse our self drive Ireland tours is to select how much time you have and work from there. Select a trip length below:

3 day driving tours of Ireland

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3 days in Ireland is a  tiny  chunk of time so you need to be careful – it’s easy to end up trying to do way too much.

With this trip length, the danger is that you’ll end up with a packed schedule, and most of your time will be spent in the car.

The best Ireland self drive tours for 3 days is one that uses a central base and that sees you explore around you on day trips.

4 day Ireland self drive itineraries

Those of you with 4 days in Ireland have the ability to explore a corner of Ireland in depth. 

However, a word of caution – if you have the ability to choose  when to visit Ireland , try and visit during spring or summer.

These seasons have the advantage of long and mostly bright days, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore.

These shorter road trips can be tricky to map out at times so, when it comes to planning a trip to Ireland with only 4 days to work with, take your time.

The best Ireland self drive tours for 4 days is one that uses 1 – 2 ‘bases’ max and that explores a specific corner of Ireland, e.g. Kerry and West Cork.

5 day self driving tours of Ireland

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5 days in Ireland is arguably the ideal length of time to explore a specific corner of Ireland, e.g. Galway and Mayo.

These 5 day trips our most popular self guided tours of Ireland. The reason for this is people  often  panic trying to squeeze in too much.

Chill! Each of our 5 day self guided tours of Ireland follow clear and logical routes.

6 day self guided Ireland tours

6 days in Ireland is a lovely amount of time that provides you with  endless  opportunities.

The best Ireland self drive tours for 6 days, in my opinion, is one that doesn’t stretch itself too thin.

If you’re starting in Belfast, for example, tackle the Causeway Coastal Route and then explore the many places to visit in Donegal .

7 day self guided tours of Ireland

If you’re spending 7 days in Ireland you’re in for a treat. A week gives you lots of options and a good whack of time to play with.

Longer Irish road trips like these give you loads of flexibility in terms of what you can do (even if it means the cost of a trip to Ireland increases).

If you’re visiting for 7 days, try and visit during summer or spring as the weather in Ireland tends to be better then and you’ll get more bang-for-your-buck.

8 day self drive tours of Ireland

Those with 8 days in Ireland have options, which is a luxury. 

You’re not overly constrained by time, and 8 long days guarantee that you won’t need to hurry at any point (unless you want to, that is!).

With 8 days, you have the chance to explore multiple counties in depth. Or, if you like, you can go all-out and pack in as much as is physically possible.

The best driving tours of Ireland for 8 days, for me, would be starting in Dublin and then working down through Wicklow, Wexford, Waterford and then around through Cork and Kerry.

9 day Ireland self drive tours

So, you’re spending 9 days in Ireland . Wonderful! However, you want to see all of the ‘main’ attractions during this time and you’re worried it’s too much.

It’s likely (and I’m basing this on getting emails from endless visitors) that you’re trying to pack in too much to the point that you’ll spend all your time moving accommodation and travelling.

9 days is a lovely chunk of time. But don’t get carried away. You can see and do  a lot  during this time frame. You just need to decide how much travelling about is ‘too much’.

10 day driving tours of Ireland

Our 10 days in Ireland guides are the second most popular trip length and we first published them several years back.

Since then, they’ve been edited based on endless feedback and they have now been refined into tours that we’re proud of!

This is a mighty amount of time for an Irish road trip and it gives you a huge amount of flexibility.

For this trip length, you could easily pick 3-4 bases and fit a huge amount in while still taking it nice and handy. Or, you could go full whack and try and see as much of the island as possible!

11 day Ireland self drive itineraries

Those spending 11 days in Ireland are the envy of many. This is a lovely chunk of time and it allows you to really explore until your heart’s content.

You can pick one of our Ireland self drive tours based on your starting point (e.g. Shannon or Belfast), your fitness level and how fast you like to travel.

Many people doing a trip of this length tend to edge towards fitting in as much as possible. However, avoid going overboard if you can.

12 day self guided Ireland tours

If you’re spending 12 days in Ireland , you’re in for a treat. You can see a whole lot in 12 days, from the  many  castles in Ireland to islands, cliffs and lots more.

You don’t have to worry too much when it comes to picking a start point for a trip of this length, as you’ve a bit of room for error.

If I had the option, I’d start in Cork and drive the Wild Atlantic Way, taking in the likes of Kinsale , the Beara Peninsula , Doolin and Achill Island .

13 day self driving tours of Ireland

If you have 13 days in Ireland you’ll be the envy of many, and for good reason – you can cover a lot of ground on one of our 13 day driving tours of Ireland.

We’ve created 56 different self guided tours of Ireland for a 13-day trip (yes, 56) and they’ve been used by over 100,000 people in only a few short months.

The different routes take in everywhere from County Mayo and County Clare to some of the most charming small towns in Ireland . Check ’em out below!

14 day Ireland self drive tours

Our 14 day self guided Ireland tours were some of the most enjoyable to research, plan and write as we had a fair idea that this trip length would be popular.

Thankfully, it was! Those of you planning a 2-week Ireland trip itinerary are on the cusp of a bucket list road trip that you’ll remember for a life time.

Although I’d argue that there’s no best Ireland itinerary for a trip this length, we’ve created 56 different options for you to choose from at the link below.

15 day self guided tours of Ireland

15 days in Ireland poses an endless amount of adventure opportunities. You have a trip that’ll be the envy of many ahead of you.

Now, with 15 days you have a lot of flexibility. You could easily explore opposite ends of Ireland with this amount of time (e.g. 5 days in Donegal, 3 in Antrim and then remainder in Cork and Kerry).

We spent a huge amount of time mapping out our 17-day Ireland self drive tours and, based on initial feedback, they’re going down very well already!

16 day self guided Irish road trip

16 day Irish road trips give you the chance to see a huge amount of Ireland.

As was the case with all of our self guided tours of Ireland, we spent a lot of time planning our 16-day guides.

At the link below, you’ll be able to pick a trip based on start point, fitness level, mode of transport and how fast you like to travel.

17 day self drive vacations Ireland

Although we don’t encounter many people spending 17 days in Ireland , this trip length does crop up from time-to-time.

To be honest with you, we found the 17 day self guided Ireland tours tricky to plan out.

However, we published and then heavily edited again after 5 months of feedback and our 17-day tour guides have now been read well over 30,000 times.

The best Ireland self drive tours for this length of time are ones that use carefully selected bases and avoid moving accommodation too frequently.

18 day self drive Ireland itinerary

18 day Irish road trips are the stuff of dreams. It’s worth comparing our ‘Fast’ and ‘Slow’ 18-day driving tours of Ireland to see what’s possible with a trip of this length.

Those of you looking to see and do as much as possible will fit plenty into 18 days.

Those looking to explore at a leisurely pace might be surprised at what’s possible when following one of our 18-day self guided Ireland tours.

19 day self guided Ireland tour

A 19 day Irish road trip is hard to bate, however, and I know I’m like a broken record at this stage, it comes with pros and cons.

Planning self guided tours of Ireland of this length often lead people to think, ‘Ah, we’ve plenty of time – we can just head to Ireland and take it as it comes’ .

Don’t be that person as you’ll regret it when you get here. A trip of this length requires careful consideration and a  lot  of planning.

Luckily, we’ve 50+ 19-day driving tours of Ireland for you to browse at the link below.

20 days self driving tours of Ireland

Very few people, aside from those of us who live here, have the chance to spend 20 days in Ireland . This is bucket list territory. 

This trip length provides you with two options:

• Explore a specific region of Ireland in depth
• Cram in as much as possible

For example, you could explore Kerry (the Ring of Kerry , Dingle Peninsula , etc.) and then progress through West Cork, Waterford, Wexford, and more.

The best self guided tours of Ireland for 20 days is one picks an adequate number of bases near key areas of interest and that avoids falling into the trap of trying to ‘fit everything in’.

21 days in Ireland self guided

If you have the luxury of spending 21 days in Ireland , you’re in for a treat. An unforgettable experience awaits.

This was one of the hardest of our Ireland self drive tours to map out as there’s a danger of doing either too much or too little with a trip of this length.

It took us 8 days to research these 21-day itineraries and twice that to write and edit them. Enjoy!

FAQs about the best Ireland self drive tours

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from Ireland vacation ideas to detailed train itineraries.

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.

Can I tour Ireland on my own?

Yes. Although many people tackle driving tours of Ireland with friends or family, many people go it alone. Ireland is relatively small which means that you can see a lot, even on day trips.

How many days do you need to drive around Ireland?

Although we have free self drive Ireland tours ranging from 2 to 28 days, the minimum we’d recommend for driving around Ireland is 7 days. Just keep in mind that you’ll be very limited in what you can see and do.

How do I plan a driving tour of Ireland?

Start with how long you have to play with and work from there. Once you have your trip length, move to when you can visit and then proceed to what part of Ireland you can arrive into.

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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