The Ultimate Ireland Road Trip Itinerary (3 weeks)

Galways nightlife is absolutely a highlight. Here’s what I recommend seeing and doing at night here:

• Dún Aonghasa: First on your list should be Dún Aonghasa, an ancient stone fort perched dramatically on the edge of a cliff. The views from here are absolutely breathtaking, with the Atlantic Ocean stretching out endlessly before you. The walk up to the fort is part of the experience, so take your time and soak in the rugged beauty of the landscape.
• The Wormhole (Poll na bPéist): If you’re up for a bit of an adventure, head over to the Wormhole. This natural rectangular pool carved into the rocks by the sea is unlike anything you’ve seen before. It’s a bit of a hike to get there, but the stunning sight is worth every step.
• Kilronan Village: Spend some time wandering around Kilronan, the main village on the island. It’s a charming spot with a few shops, cafes, and pubs. Grab a bite to eat or just relax with a coffee while you watch the world go by.
• Seal Colony: Take a leisurely bike ride or walk to the Seal Colony on the island’s southern coast. These playful creatures are often seen lounging on the rocks, and it’s a peaceful spot to spend some time.
• Na Seacht dTeampaill (The Seven Churches): Explore the ruins of this ancient monastic site, which dates back to the 8th century. The weathered stone buildings and surrounding cemetery offer a glimpse into the island’s rich history.
• Kilmurvey Beach: If the weather’s nice, make your way to Kilmurvey Beach. This beautiful sandy beach is perfect for a stroll, a picnic, or even a quick dip if you’re feeling brave. It’s one of the best spots on the island to just relax and take in the scenery.

Start your day by taking an early morning ferry back from Inis Mór to the mainland. Once you arrive in Galway, pick up your car and prepare for a day of breathtaking scenery.

The drive from Galway to Connemara is approximately 50 to 60 kilometers (31 to 37 miles), and typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to drive. The N59 is a scenic route that offers beautiful views of the Irish countryside, including lakes, mountains, and rolling hills.

Next up is a drive to Doo Lough Valley, a serene and stunningly beautiful region in County Mayo. Along the way, you’ll discover charming villages, historic sites, and some of the most stunning natural scenery Ireland has to offer. Let’s explore the must-see spots along the route:

• Leenane Village: As you drive towards Doo Lough Valley, stop in the quaint village of Leenane. This charming spot is known for its picturesque setting on Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord. It’s a great place to enjoy a cup of tea and take in the views.
• Aasleagh Falls: Just outside Leenane, these beautiful waterfalls are worth a quick visit. The falls are particularly impressive after heavy rain, creating a powerful and dramatic display.

Doo Lough Valley is renowned for its haunting beauty and tragic history. The valley’s rugged terrain, crystal-clear lakes, and steep mountains create a dramatic and unforgettable backdrop.

As you leave Westport and head toward Achill Island, you’re traveling along a section of the Wild Atlantic Way. This route offers stunning coastal views, with Achill Island being one of its standout destinations.

The Atlantic Drive on Achill is a particularly scenic part of the Wild Atlantic Way, with breathtaking ocean views and rugged landscapes that are quintessentially Irish. The drive takes about 1 hour, and the breathtaking scenery along the way will make the time fly by.

As you make your way towards Achill Island, you’ll pass by Clew Bay, which is dotted with 365 small islands, one for each day of the year. The views across the bay are breathtaking, especially on a clear day.

• Deserted Village at Slievemore: Venture to the base of Slievemore Mountain to explore the Deserted Village, a hauntingly beautiful site with the ruins of nearly 100 stone cottages. These structures date back to the 19th century and offer a glimpse into the island’s history and the impact of the Great Famine.
• Minaun Heights: For those who enjoy a bit of hiking, Minaun Heights offers a short but steep climb that rewards you with panoramic views of the island and beyond. The view from the top, especially at sunset, is simply unforgettable.
• Slievemore Cemetery: Before leaving the island, consider a short visit to Slievemore Cemetery. Located near the Deserted Village, this historic site offers a quiet place for reflection, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the island.

After Keem Bay, take the scenic Atlantic Drive, which offers some of the most spectacular coastal views in Ireland. The drive loops around the island, providing panoramic views of the rugged cliffs, rolling waves, and scattered islands off the coast. There are plenty of spots to pull over and take in the scenery, so take your time and enjoy the journey.

A two-and-a-half-hour drive from Achill Island is the vibrant town of Donegal. With its rich history, stunning coastline, and lively music scene, it’s referred to as the “coolest place on the planet” by National Geographic and LonelyPlanet! The town is famous for its castle, traditional Irish music, and beautiful craft shops.

Don’t miss these must-see spots:

• Mweelrea Mountain: For those feeling adventurous, Mweelrea is the highest mountain in Connacht and offers challenging hikes with rewarding views. Be sure to check the weather conditions and bring proper gear if you decide to tackle this climb.
• Classiebawn Castle: On your way to Donegal, take a slight detour to see the majestic Classiebawn Castle in Mullaghmore. While it’s not open to the public, the views from the surrounding area are spectacular.
• Slieve League Cliffs: These cliffs are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe and offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. There are several viewing points, and a hike to the top is well worth the effort for the incredible scenery.
• Donegal Castle: Once you arrive in Donegal, visit this 15th-century castle located in the heart of the town. The castle has been beautifully restored and offers guided tours that delve into its fascinating history.

Donegal has some of Ireland’s most beautiful beaches. Rossnowlagh Beach is perfect for a long walk and is known for its stunning sunsets. In winter, the beaches are much quieter and offer a peaceful retreat.

Dining Tip: For a delicious meal, try The Olde Castle Bar & Red Hugh’s Restaurant for fresh seafood and hearty Irish dishes. Don’t miss out on trying a pint of the local craft beer, Kinnegar Brewing, which is brewed right in Donegal!

• Peace Bridge: This iconic bridge spans the River Foyle and symbolizes the unity between the different communities in Derry. It’s a lovely place for a walk, especially at sunset.
• St. Columb’s Cathedral: This historic cathedral, dating back to 1633, is one of the city’s most important landmarks. The interior is beautiful, and the staff are very welcoming and knowledgeable.
• Tower Museum: Located within the city walls, the Tower Museum offers two main exhibitions: one on the history of Derry and another on the Spanish Armada. The views from the top of the tower are also fantastic.
• Ebrington Square: This revitalized area on the opposite side of the Peace Bridge is great for a leisurely stroll. It often hosts events and markets, especially in summer.
• Craft Village: This quaint area within the city center is home to local artisans, shops, and cafes. It’s a perfect spot to pick up unique souvenirs and enjoy a coffee.

For a scenic walk, head to Ness Woods and Ervey Wood, located just a short drive from the city. The area offers beautiful forest trails and a stunning waterfall.

Though the UK left the EU in 2020, there’s no “hard border” or customs checks between the two countries. Just be aware that Northern Ireland uses the British pound (GBP) instead of the euro. Additionally, most places accept card payments, but it’s handy to have some local currency on you. Road signs will also switch from kilometers to miles, so keep that in mind as you drive.

Depending on your mobile provider, crossing into Northern Ireland may result in roaming charges. Check with your provider beforehand and consider downloading maps or setting your phone to airplane mode to avoid unexpected fees.

Heading from Derry to Belfast today, you’re in for a treat! Belfast is a city buzzing with energy and history. Once known primarily for its shipbuilding prowess, including the construction of the Titanic, Belfast has reinvented itself with a thriving arts scene, fantastic eateries, and rich history.

The journey takes about 1.5 hours, so let’s get going and explore some amazing stops along the way:

As our amazing Irish road trip comes to an end, we’re making our way from Belfast back to Dublin. This final leg is filled with opportunities to explore some fantastic spots along the way. Let’s make the most of this journey back and discover a few gems en route!

• Direct Route (2 hours): M1/A1 motorway.

This is the fastest and most direct route, making it ideal if you’re looking to get back to Dublin quickly. The road is straightforward and well-maintained, ensuring a smooth drive.

• Scenic Coastal Route (3.5 hours): From Belfast, take the A2 to Carrickfergus, then follow the A2 along the coast to Larne. From Larne, take the A8 and join the M2 motorway south to Belfast, then take the M1/A1 to Dublin.

Before you pack your bags and hit the road, here are a few key things to think about for your Irish adventure.

Deciding the best time for your Ireland road trip can enhance your experience, as each season offers its own unique charm.

• Spring (March to May): Spring in Ireland is a wonderful time to visit. The countryside bursts into bloom with vibrant wildflowers, and the weather starts to warm up. It’s also less crowded than the summer months.
• Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season with the warmest weather and the longest days. Festivals are in full swing, and everything is lush and green. However, it can be quite crowded, especially at popular attractions.
• Autumn (September to November): The fall foliage is stunning, and the weather is still relatively mild. Tourist crowds thin out, making it a perfect time for a more peaceful road trip.
• Winter (December to February): Winter is the quietest time, with fewer tourists and a cozy, festive atmosphere in towns and cities. The weather is colder and can be wet, but it’s a great time to enjoy Ireland’s indoor attractions and pub culture.

My favorite time to visit Ireland is in the autumn. The fall colors are spectacular, and the weather is still pleasant without the summer crowds.

Determining how many days to spend on your Ireland road trip will help you plan an itinerary that covers the country’s highlights at a comfortable pace.

• 7-10 Days: This is a good amount of time to get a taste of Ireland’s highlights. You can explore Dublin, head to the west coast to see Galway and the Cliffs of Moher, and maybe even dip into the south to visit Cork and Killarney.
• 10-14 Days: With a couple of weeks, you can take a more leisurely pace and dive deeper into each region. This allows you to explore the stunning landscapes of Connemara, the historical sites in Kilkenny, and the scenic drives of the Ring of Kerry.
• 14+ Days: If you have more than two weeks, you can see almost everything on your Irish bucket list. Take your time to enjoy the lesser-known gems, like Donegal’s rugged coast, the charming villages of the Beara Peninsula, and the beautiful beaches of the southeast.

For a truly immersive experience, I recommend spending at least 10-14 days on your road trip. This gives you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace and really soak in the beauty and culture of Ireland.

If you have more time and want to see even more of what Ireland or the Wild Atlantic Way has to offer, consider adding these fantastic spots to your itinerary:

• Dingle Peninsula: This area offers stunning coastal scenery, charming villages, and ancient archaeological sites. The Slea Head Drive is one of the most beautiful drives in Ireland.
• Achill Island: Connected to the mainland by a bridge, this island boasts rugged landscapes, beautiful beaches, and the highest sea cliffs in Ireland. It’s perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures.
• Sligo: Known for its literary connections to W.B. Yeats, Sligo features beautiful landscapes, including Benbulben Mountain and Lough Gill. It’s a great spot for poetry lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
• Cork’s Wild Atlantic Way: Explore the hidden gems along this scenic coastal route, including the Beara Peninsula and the Mizen Head Signal Station. These areas are less crowded but equally stunning.
• Aran Islands: A short ferry ride from Galway, these islands offer a glimpse into traditional Irish life. Visit Inishmore, the largest island, to see the ancient fort of Dun Aonghasa and enjoy cycling around the island.
• Donegal’s Slieve League: These cliffs are among the highest in Europe and offer breathtaking views over the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a quieter but no less impressive alternative to the Cliffs of Moher.

Planning your Ireland road trip is super exciting, but you might have some questions. Here are answers to common queries to help you plan your adventure.

If you’re short on time but want to experience the highlights, here’s a condensed 5-day itinerary:

• Day 1: Dublin: Explore the Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College and the Book of Kells, and stroll through Temple Bar. Enjoy dinner in one of the traditional pubs.
• Day 2: Kilkenny: Visit Kilkenny Castle, the Medieval Mile, and the Smithwick’s Experience. Take a walk in the beautiful gardens.
• Day 3: Cork: Check out the English Market, Blarney Castle, and the picturesque town of Cobh. Try some local seafood.
• Day 4: Killarney and Ring of Kerry: Drive through Killarney National Park, visit Muckross House, and take in the stunning views along the Ring of Kerry.
• Day 5: Galway: Wander through the Latin Quarter, visit Galway Cathedral, and enjoy the lively atmosphere at Eyre Square.

The total driving time depends on your route, but you can expect around 20-25 hours of driving spread out over your trip. For example, Dublin to Kilkenny is about 1.5 hours, Kilkenny to Cork is 2 hours, and Cork to Killarney is about 1.5 hours.

Absolutely! Here’s a sample 7-day itinerary:

• Day 1: Dublin: Explore the city’s top attractions.
• Day 2: Kilkenny: Discover the medieval charm and historic sites.
• Day 3: Cork: Visit key landmarks and enjoy the vibrant culture.
• Day 4: Killarney and Ring of Kerry: Experience stunning landscapes and charming towns.
• Day 5: Galway: Enjoy the lively city and scenic surroundings.
• Day 6: Cliffs of Moher and The Burren: Marvel at the dramatic cliffs and unique landscapes.
• Day 7: Dublin: Return to Dublin and explore any sights you might have missed.

A comfortable, fuel-efficient car is ideal for this trip. Given the variety of terrains and some narrow country roads, a compact or midsize car is perfect. If you plan to explore more remote areas or want extra space, consider renting a small SUV.

Yes, there are a few toll roads in Ireland, mainly around Dublin. Make sure to have some change ready for these tolls, although many accept card payments. The M50 around Dublin uses electronic tolling, so you might want to check how to pay this online.

Exploring Ireland without a car is possible but less convenient. Major cities like Dublin and Cork are well-connected by buses and trains, but public transportation options to destinations like Killarney, the Ring of Kerry, and more remote areas are limited. Consider joining organized tours for those areas or renting a car for more flexibility. Driving a car is the best way to get around and visit all the stops on this itinerary!

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