Explore the magic of Ireland on this 5-day self-drive adventure. Start with a pint of Guinness in Dublin, dive into the Emerald Isle’s past at the Rock of Cashel, spend two nights in the famous heritage village of Killarney, and journey along the Wild Atlantic Way to tour the Dingle Peninsula.

Highlights

  • Experience the ancient streets of Dublin
  • Visit Ireland's first National Park
  • Seek history along the Ring of Kerry
  • Explore the beauty of Dingle & Slea Head

Brief Itinerary

Day Highlights Overnight
Day 1 Dublin Dublin
Day 2 Killarney via the Rock of Cashel Killarney National Park
Day 3 The Ring of Kerry Killarney National Park
Day 4 Dingle Peninsula Dingle Town
Day 5 Departure  

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Dublin

Downtown Dublin, Ireland.
Downtown Dublin, Ireland.

After arriving at Dublin Airport, you'll have the day free to explore the city. Step back in time with a visit to Dublin Castle, visit Trinity College’s Old Library to catch a sight of the ancient Book of Kells, stroll down bustling Grafton Street, or relax in a cozy pub with live music and great company. No matter how you decide to spend your first few hours in the city, you'll start to experience what makes Dublin special.

Day 2: Killarney via the Rock of Cashel

The Rock of Cashel, Tipperary.
The Rock of Cashel, Tipperary.

On day two, pick up your car rental and leave the capital, traveling southwest towards County Kerry. An unmissable highlight along the way is the Rock of Cashel. Once home to the High Kings of Ireland, this group of medieval buildings is set on a spectacular outcrop of limestone. After continuing through the mountainous terrain separating Cork and Kerry, you’ll arrive in the town of Killarney, home to Ireland’s first National Park.

Driving time: 4 hours

Driving distance: 189 miles (305 km)

Plan your trip to Ireland
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Day 3: The Ring of Kerry

Sandy beach, Ring of Kerry.
Sandy beach, Ring of Kerry.

Today’s adventure takes you on a 28-mile (45 km) drive to the world-famous Ring of Kerry. Considered one of the most spectacular locations in Ireland, this route will offer you dramatic landscapes of rugged coastline, golden beaches, picturesque villages, and green mountains.

If you feel like a hike, drive about 13 miles (22 km) to Derrynane National Park near Caherdaniel. The Derrynane Loop, a moderate 5.5-mile (9 km) walking route, follows some of the old mass path pilgrimage route and the Kerry Way. You'll pass through the hillside woodland above the Derrynane Blue Flag Beach and the imposing Derrynane House.

 After a long day of sightseeing, driving, and hiking, you'll head back to Killarney for the night.

Driving time: 1 to 1.5 hours

Driving distance: 28 miles (45 km) to 41 miles (65 km)

Day 4: Dingle Peninsula

Colorful shopfronts in Dingle Town.
Colorful shopfronts in Dingle Town.

Dingle is your destination today, as you explore this dramatic peninsula littered with archaeological and historical wonders. Your first stop is Inch Beach, famous for being the place where an inch is 3 miles long. Take a short walk along its golden sands, then head west to the edge of Europe, also known as Slea Head. Feast your eyes on breath-taking scenery of its rugged coast, windswept beaches, and the magnificent Blasket Island, before ending your day in the colorful seaside village of Dingle Town.

Driving time: 1 hour

Driving Distance: 40 miles (64 km)

Day 5: Departure

Departure
Departure

After breakfast, you’ll drive back east to Dublin to return your car rental and bid farewell to the Emerald Isle.

Driving distance: 215 miles (346 km)

Driving time: 4 hours

Map

Map of Ireland Self-Driving Tour: Dublin, Killarney & Dingle - 5 Days
Map of Ireland Self-Driving Tour: Dublin, Killarney & Dingle - 5 Days