Best of Doolin

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Doolin
On the Wild Atlantic Way of Ireland’s west coast, the tiny village of Doolin is renowned for its traditional music scene. A handful of pubs both in Doolin and in nearby Roadmore host live jams all year long. Doolin lies near the Burren, a karst limestone landscape of caves, cliffs and craggy rock formations that once lay at the bottom of an ancient sea. Just south of Doolin, you can take in edge-of-the-earth views above the crashing waves from atop the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s biggest attractions. Doolin is also a gateway to visiting the Aran Islands, a windswept archipelago with yet more dramatic scenery. 

There are various ways to see the Cliffs of Moher. You can hike along the rocky headlands enjoying the impressive views along the way, or head out on a boat excursion to see the soaring rockface from the water. Inland, you can explore sections of the 100-mile (161-km) Burren Loop by car or on a bicycle. You can see the ruins of medieval castles and monasteries (like the 13th-century Corcomroe Abbey), photograph megalithic tombs and walk the pathways of old stone forts. Another highlight in the area is the seaside village of Liscannor, where you can paddle along the coast on a kayak or stand-up paddle board.
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Sunset over Doonagore Castle in Doolin
Map of West Coast of Ireland Road Trip - 8 Days
West Coast of Ireland Road Trip - 8 Days

Buckle up for a wildly beautiful road trip around Ireland's west coast. This eight-day adventure takes you along dramatic coastal routes, past ancient landscapes dotted with archaeological treasures, and into charming towns and villages. By day, you'll travel parts of the iconic Wild Atlantic Way, from the mighty Cliffs of Moher to the Irish-speaking Aran Islands. Come the evenings, settle down in authentic Irish pubs for fine food and traditional music.

The Cliffs of Moher
Map of Western Ireland on Foot: The Burren, Aran Islands & Connemara - 8 Days
Western Ireland on Foot: The Burren, Aran Islands & Connemara - 8 Days

Immerse yourself in the glorious scenery of western Ireland on this eight-day walking itinerary. Start in the coastal village of Doolin to hike through the lunar landscape of The Burren, along the Cliffs of Moher, and out to the Irish-speaking island of Inis Mór. Skirt inland mountain ranges and the lakes of Connemara to end your adventure in Galway, where cozy pubs and live music await. Luggage transfers and daily breakfasts mean all you have to do is set off with your day pack and enjoy the scenery.

Doonagore Castle, near Doolin
Map of Ireland Road Trip: Castles & Coast - 9 Days
Ireland Road Trip: Castles & Coast - 9 Days

This nine-day itinerary embraces the drama and diversity of Ireland's coast, from paddleboarding at Oysterhaven Beach to an Aran Islands voyage and drives beside sweeping beaches and headlands. Discover a history of battles and hauntings at epic castles and their atmospheric grounds. With three guided tours and car rental included, you'll have everything you need for a classic Irish adventure.

Admire the sunset over the Irish coast with the kids
Map of Iconic Ireland Family Road Trip: Dublin, Cork & the West Coast - 10 Days
Iconic Ireland Family Road Trip: Dublin, Cork & the West Coast - 10 Days

Experience the unmatched natural beauty of Ireland with this charming 10-day family trip that takes you from historic Dublin down to Cork, across the Killarney National Park, and through the lush, unspoiled Hidden Heartlands. Along the way, you and the kids will explore castles galore, kiss the Blarney Stone, sail to the Aran Islands, and discover the warmest of welcomes in the country known as the Emerald Isle.

The path from Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher
Map of Heart of Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Clifden, Doolin & Killarney - 11 Days
Heart of Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Clifden, Doolin & Killarney - 11 Days

Discover some of Ireland's most iconic natural landscapes on this unforgettable 11-day road trip. Starting in the capital of Dublin, you'll strike out toward the west coast to admire the beaches, castles, and villages of Connemara and County Clare, then hop on a ferry to the remote Aran Islands. Your trip winds down in Killarney with kayaking and cycling around the national park, before circling back to Dublin for a final night on the town.

The trail to Dunquin
Map of Ultimate Southwest Ireland Hiking Adventure - 15 Days
Ultimate Southwest Ireland Hiking Adventure - 15 Days

Explore Ireland's most picturesque locations on foot with this rugged 15-day itinerary. Begin your adventure in Dublin, a city steeped in history, before moving on to Killarney for a cruise through its lakes and a hike along the ancient "butter road" to Kenmare. Head to Sneem to learn about the area's rich history and explore its natural beauty. Enjoy a walk around Slea Head, trek along the wild Cliffs of Moher, and end your journey with a night at the medieval Kinnity Castle.

A young family explores beautiful Killarney National Park
Map of Family Adventure in Ireland - 7 Days
Family Adventure in Ireland - 7 Days

Uncover Ireland's unmatched natural beauty with this week-long, family-centered trip to the Emerald Isle. Enjoy a swashbuckling adventure as you venture from colorful Kinsale to Limerick, playing pirates atop a 17th-century fort and learning the art of falconry at Adare Manor. Sail across the waves to the remote Aran Irelands and explore the famous Cliffs of Moher as you and the kids receive the warmest of welcomes on this charming tour.

The dramatic Cliffs of Moher
Map of Ireland Self-Drive Adventure: Dublin, Galway, Doolin & Kinsale - 6 Days
Ireland Self-Drive Adventure: Dublin, Galway, Doolin & Kinsale - 6 Days

In under a week, this Irish road trip loops through a land of epic landscapes and even more epic history. Start in Dublin with a walking tour of the city's medieval and Georgian past, then set out toward the cultural and culinary capital of Galway. Gallop along the windswept beaches of Spiddal, take in dizzying views from the Cliffs of Moher, drive the scenic Ring of Kerry, and go kayaking by starlight on the saltwater lake of Lough Hyne.

Killarney National Park
Map of Irish Traditions Self-Drive Road Trip - 11 Days
Irish Traditions Self-Drive Road Trip - 11 Days

With empty roads and a landscape of spectacular cliffs, windswept castles, and dreamy pastures, Ireland is made for driving. A warm welcome awaits in the cozy towns and villages, including Doolin, the country's traditional music capital. It's easy to get around on your own, so set off in a rental car to create your own adventure on this 11-day itinerary. You'll start and end in Dublin, driving clockwise for a stretch on the Wild Atlantic Way, learning about Ireland's fascinating history and traditions as you go.

Cycle around the rugged coastline of Inishmore, the largest of Ireland's Aran Islands
Map of Ireland Self-Guided Cycling Tour: Dublin, Galway, Doolin & Dingle - 12 Days
Ireland Self-Guided Cycling Tour: Dublin, Galway, Doolin & Dingle - 12 Days

Soak in western Ireland's inspiring coastal landscape on this 12-day itinerary, which features both two and four wheels. Flying into Dublin, you'll head directly west to Galway and journey down the Wild Atlantic Way. Between short drives, you'll cycle around striking scenery, from the lunar-like Burren region to a host of awesome peninsulas. There'll be time to discover key sites on foot, too, from the Cliffs of Moher to Muckross House, as well as Dublin's highlights.

Stand at the edge of the famous Cliffs of Moher for those impressive snapshots
Map of Road Tripping in Ireland: Dublin, Killarney, Doolin & Galway - 12 Days
Road Tripping in Ireland: Dublin, Killarney, Doolin & Galway - 12 Days

Explore some of Ireland's most memorable sights on this 12-day self-drive adventure. Start in Dublin with a tour and tasting at the famous Guinness Storehouse, then head to Blarney Castle and give a good-luck kiss to the Blarney Stone. Hike Killarney National Park, descend into the wondrous caves of Doolin, and see the magnificent Cliffs of Moher via boat. End your trip with a drive back to Dublin for a whiskey tasting at Jameson Distillery and a tour of the somber halls of Kilmainham Gaol.

Soak up innovative cuisine and great craic on a tour of Ireland's best foodie hotspots
Map of Culinary Trip Through Ireland - 12 Days
Culinary Trip Through Ireland - 12 Days

Spend 12 days discovering Ireland's gastronomic highlights on this clockwise self-drive tour of the southwest and west coast. With a combination of independent discovery and guided tours, you'll browse markets, sample homegrown produce, and explore culinary hotspots such as Galway (which regularly tops lists of foodie destinations) and Ireland's "gourmet capital" of Kinsale. There'll also be the chance to sip whiskey and gin at distilleries and dive into Ireland's high-spirited pub culture.

Brightly painted houses in the seaside town of Cobh
Map of Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Galway & Belfast - 14 Days
Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Galway & Belfast - 14 Days

Get ready to immerse yourself in Irish culture, history, and landscapes with this two-week, self-drive adventure. Starting in Dublin, you'll head south to explore highlights like the Rock of Cashel, the Ring of Kerry, and Killarney National Park. Continue up the wild west coast to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, and make a quick detour to the windswept Aran Islands. Revel in the culture and traditional music of Doolin, Westport, and Galway before crossing into Northern Ireland, where you'll discover the otherworldly geology of the Giant's Causeway and end your journey in the bustling streets of Belfast.

Make memories with your family as you explore Ireland's the Ring of Kerry
Map of Action-Packed Ireland Family Road Trip - 14 Days
Action-Packed Ireland Family Road Trip - 14 Days

Starting in historic Dublin, get ready for a two-week road trip that immerses your family in the best of Ireland. Drive onward to Kinsale, Kenmare, Tralee, Doolin, and Birr to experience unbeatable natural beauty, stately castles, rich history, friendly locals, and cultural experiences. You and the kids will be falconing one minute, sailing the next, whale watching, and hiking—and that's all just in the first few days. Buckle up and prepare to make some memories!

Sea views from historic Charles Fort in Kinsale
Map of Ireland Castles & Hiking Road Trip - 14 Days
Ireland Castles & Hiking Road Trip - 14 Days

Discover the splendor of the Irish landscape, and the atmospheric castles that embellish it, on this active two-week road trip. As you drive clockwise from Dublin, there are opportunities galore to explore the great outdoors. Hike on enchanting trails through remote mountain ranges, cycle the riverside Waterford Greenway, kayak under the stars, and set off on horseback from neo-Gothic castle grounds.

Take a drive through the Irish countryside
Map of South Ireland Scenic Road Trip - 8 Days
South Ireland Scenic Road Trip - 8 Days

A great choice for families or travelers who prefer a little independence, this itinerary will take you on a leisurely road trip through some of Ireland's most scenic cities and natural sites. Experience the allure of Ireland as you drive along the coast and over verdant hills between stop at the medieval Rock of Cashel, Killarney National Park, and the Cliffs of Moher.

Ring of Kerry
Map of Highlights of Ireland Road Trip - 10 Days
Highlights of Ireland Road Trip - 10 Days

Explore the magic of Ireland independently with this self-drive itinerary. You'll go from the ancient streets of Dublin to the rebel city of Cork, the quaint village of Killarney, and the breathtaking Ring of Kerry. Keep going to the spectacular views of the Cliffs of Moher and the buzzing cultural scene of Galway before you ultimately return to Dublin.

Stay two nights in the charming town of Westport while exploring County Mayo
Map of Ireland's Ultimate Self-Drive Adventure - 15 Days
Ireland's Ultimate Self-Drive Adventure - 15 Days

Take 15 days to loop around the island of Ireland at a relaxed pace. Starting in Dublin, head clockwise to check off several beautiful counties in the south and west, like Wicklow, Cork, Kerry, Clare, Mayo, and Donegal while staying in charming towns along the way. Spend the last few days of the trip exploring Northern Ireland's transformed capital and its coastal gems to complete this once-in-a-lifetime journey.

Visit historic castles and landmarks, like the Rock of Cashel
Map of Discover Scotland & Ireland: Castles & Cuisine - 13 Days
Discover Scotland & Ireland: Castles & Cuisine - 13 Days

On this 13-day jaunt through Scotland and Ireland, you'll visit iconic landmarks and immerse yourself in local culture. In Scotland, visit Edinburgh Castle while enjoying food and distillery tours. Then fly to Northern Ireland and experience Belfast before heading south to iconic Irish highlights like the Cliffs of Moher and Kilkenny Castle—eventually winding down in raucous Dublin with tasty visits to the Jameson and Guinness factories.

Discover Galway's thriving culinary scene
Map of Culinary Adventure Through Ireland - 15 Days
Culinary Adventure Through Ireland - 15 Days

Spend 15 days discovering Ireland through your taste buds on this food-themed road trip. Driving clockwise from Dublin, you'll stop at culinary hotspots focused along the south and west coast, where dramatic landscapes lie around every bend. The produce couldn't be more local, from County Kerry beef to seafood on the Aran Islands and edible seaweed you'll forage for yourself. A series of small-group tours means you'll likely meet other keen foodies along the way.

Cliffs of Moher in Western Ireland
Map of Explore the West of Ireland by Bike - 10 Days
Explore the West of Ireland by Bike - 10 Days

Explore the West of Ireland on bike with this scenic tour of coastal counties Clare, Galway, and Mayo. Cycle along the Shannon Estuary and up the coast to the Cliffs of Moher, where you'll stop for traditional music in Doolin and explore the famous Burren region. Transfer to the Aran Islands by ferry and cycle through this remote and traditional landscape, returning to the mainland via the bustling foodie city of Galway. End the trip in Northern Mayo by cycling through Neolithic fields, visiting a 19th-century castle, and tasting whiskey at Connacht Whiskey Company.

Slea Head
Map of Ireland's Scenic Hikes & Drives - 9 Days
Ireland's Scenic Hikes & Drives - 9 Days

This road trip is the perfect introduction to some of Ireland's best-known sights and hikes, with a few off-the-beaten-path gems featured along the way. Over nine days, you'll explore the Emerald Isle's wild landscapes on breathtaking drives and fresh-air walks. Big names include the Cliffs of Moher, the Wicklow Way, and the Ring of Kerry, but there's equal joy to be found in strolling quaint towns or settling down in a traditional pub for an evening of folk music.

Snap those family pics as you explore Ireland's great outdoors
Map of Family Outdoor Adventure in Ireland - 10 Days
Family Outdoor Adventure in Ireland - 10 Days

This charming 10-day family tour of Ireland introduces kids, big and little, to a taste of Irish rural life as they explore the country's stunning natural beauty. Let screens and email become a distant memory as you journey from Dublin to the breathtaking scenery of Wicklow and onward to Kinsale, Kenmare, and Doolin. Make memories as you learn bushcraft with the kids, experience the 3,000-year-old Celtic sport of hurling, and discover the myths and legends of the mysterious Cliffs of Moher.

the sea cliffs at Downpatrick Head on the coastline of County Mayo, Ireland
Wild Atlantic Way Self Drive Adventure - 14 Days

Get ready for mile after mile of unforgettable memories. On this road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way— the longest defined coastal route in the world—you'll enjoy rugged scenery, gorgeous coastline, and off-the-beaten-path adventures from County Donegal’s remote Northern Headlands down to the picturesque southern peninsulas.

Cliffs of Moher
Map of Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Killarney, Doolin, Westport & More - 14 Days
Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Killarney, Doolin, Westport & More - 14 Days

This ultimate self-driving tour of Ireland is filled with adventures in historic towns and along scenic coastlines. Start in Dublin before exploring the villages of Laragh, the medieval Rock of Cashel in Cork, and the hiking trails in Kinsale. Then, tour Killarney, the Ring of Kerry, and Inch Beach off the Dingle Peninsula. The final leg of the road trip takes you to the must-see Cliffs of Moher, bohemian Galway, and two historic national parks before a final night in Derry.

Colorful Dingle High Street
Map of Ireland's Food &  Culture - 11 Days
Ireland's Food & Culture - 11 Days

Fresh farm produce, seafood plucked straight from the Atlantic, and generations-old baking recipes—Irish cuisine is nourishing and comforting in equal measure. On this 11-day self-drive tour, you'll spend each night in a different location, focusing on the knockout food scenes of the southwest and west coast. Browse local markets, dine in a Michelin-starred pub, and tour culinary hotspots such as Galway (which regularly tops lists of foodie destinations) and Ireland's "gourmet capital" of Kinsale.

Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way
Map of Road Trip Adventure on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way - 15 Days
Road Trip Adventure on Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way - 15 Days

Explore Ireland's famous Wild Atlantic Way on this adventurous 15-day road trip. Start in Dublin, where you'll walk the River Liffey and visit historic Trinity College. Then, it's off to Cork and Kenmare for a drive of the scenic Sheep's Head Loop and the ancient stone circles of Bonane Heritage Park. Travel via cable car over the ocean to Dursey Island, drive the rugged coastlines of the Ring of Kerry, and hike to the top of the majestic Sliabh Liag before returning to Dublin for museum visits and whiskey tastings.

Wildflowers and Limestone Rock in Ireland
Map of Hike, Bike & Surf Western Ireland - 7 Days
Hike, Bike & Surf Western Ireland - 7 Days

Explore Ireland's western coast by combining outdoor activities with luxury accommodation in 5-star castle hotels in County Clare and County Mayo. Your excursion begins with a guided walk through the limestone landscape of the Burren, followed by a cycle across Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands, and a surfing lesson. You'll transfer north to hike the hills of Connemara National Park and bike along the country's famous Great Western Greenway.

Other popular travel destinations in Ireland
Dublin · County Kerry · Killarney · Galway · Dingle Peninsula · Dingle Town · Northern Ireland · Killarney National Park · Belfast · Cork · Kenmare · County Cork · Kinsale · Westport · Donegal · Birr · Tralee · Ballycastle · Letterkenny · Laragh · Clifden · Sligo · Limerick · Aran Islands · Kilkenny · Waterford · Donegal town · Portmagee