Welcome to the greenest part of Emerald Isle. Untamed, uncrowded, and unspoiled, Ireland's northwest is one of the most diverse wildernesses in Europe. Threaded with miles of empty roads, it's ripe for exploring by car. On this 12-day self-drive trip, you'll head directly west from Dublin and journey north up the Wild Atlantic Way, into a world of dramatic peninsulas, flower-specked marshland, sacred mountains, and Neolithic monuments.
Road-tripping for two weeks in Ireland is manageable, even with young children. You can visit at least six destinations, though focusing on the country's north or south is best. Explore Belfast and the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland using Dublin as a jumping-off point. If venturing south, you can drive the Ring of Kerry, and it's easy to include the Cliffs of Moher in every itinerary. You'll surely experience family time at historical castles, on hiking trails, and along stunning coastlines.
Starting from Dublin, this itinerary takes you on an anti-clockwise self-drive adventure around the Emerald Isle. Delve into history and folklore as you explore Ireland's dramatic landscape over 11 days. The trip includes guided tours of Boyne Valley’s ancient sacred sites, “haunted” Leap Castle, and a walk around Dublin’s Medieval Quarter. On the west coast, you’ll discover the enchanting setting that inspired the poetry of WB Yeats.
Eight days in Ireland is enough time to explore three to four destinations in one region. Using Dublin as a jumping-off point, discover the West Coast's iconic Wild Atlantic Way or venture to Northern Ireland to wander among Belfast, Antrim's waterfalls, and islands in the Scottish Hebrides. Another option is to city hop arts-loving Galway to cosmopolitan Cork. More active travelers might consider a walking adventure of western Ireland's The Burren, Aran Islands, and Connemara.
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 that you'll forage for yourself. A series of small-group tours means you'll likely meet other keen foodies along the way.
Ten days is enough time to experience five to six destinations in Ireland. With popular stops like Dublin and Killarney, the Family Adventure is great for first-timers. The West Coast Road Trip's treasure hunts and farm visits are a hit with young ones and animal lovers, while the abundance of sports, such as surfing, on the South and West Road Trip makes it ideal for older kids and active families. The variety of the Outdoor Adventure, including toy-making and Celtic hurling, fits families of diverse ages and interests.
In seven days, you can see three to four areas and many of Ireland's highlights. Consider a road trip, as this makes exploring much easier with kids. Sightsee in Dublin and then enjoy activities beyond the city, like kid-friendly hikes, beach time in the Connemara region, learning about history through castles and museums, a "magical" fairy trail walk in County Offaly, a ghost tour in colorful Kinsale, wandering by old stone structures on the Aran Islands, and taking a less-traveled route to the Cliffs of Moher.
Explore the castles and coastline of the Emerald Isle on this two-week family adventure. Choose your own pace as you wind your way from Dublin to the wild west coast and onto the iconic landscapes of the Ring of Kerry. Along the way, you'll hang 10 in one of Europe's best surf spots, capture the kids' imaginations in historic castles, and hike and bike through scenic national parks before circling back to Dublin for some educational fun at the Epic Museum.
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.
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.
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 rich history of the area 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.
This two-week family adventure starts with a drive from Dublin to Belfast, Northern Ireland's capital city. Learn about the historic HMS Titanic and see the murals of Belfast's Peace Walls, then visit the natural wonders of the Giant's Causeway and Antrim Waterfalls. Tour a working sheep farm, see wild deer in Glenveagh National Park, and explore the night skies at County Mayo's Dark Sky Park. Your trip ends back in Dublin with the interactive EPIC Museum and the city's many family-friendly parks.
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.
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!
This fun-filled family tour of Ireland starts in Dublin, where you'll visit some of the city's most iconic parks and say hello to the animals at the Dublin Zoo. Then, you'll pick up your rental car and head to Connemara for hikes in Connemara National Park, a beach day on the peaceful shores of Coral Strand, and a deep dive into the history of castles such as Athlone, Aughnanure, and Clifden. The trip ends back in Dublin, with more castles, museums, and an ocean walk on the city's Great South Wall.
Take the family on an epic adventure through Ireland on this seven-day self-drive tour. Land in Dublin and hit the road, driving to the town of Athlone for historic castles and gorgeous scenery. Then, set off for the Connemara region, where you'll enjoy a beach day on the beautiful Coral Strand and take a sunset kayak tour of Mannin Bay. Walk the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, learn to surf on the beaches of Lahnich, then head back to Dublin for more castles, parks, and museums.
Immerse your family in the wonders of Ireland on this seven-day self-drive tour. Start in Dublin, where you'll stroll through St Stephen's Green Park and visit the hallowed halls of Trinity College. Then, it's off to Kinsale for the good-luck charms of the Blarney Stone and a kayak tour of Ireland's most infamous pirate routes. Bike through the greenery of Killarney National Park, paint your own toy soldiers at Europe's only toy soldier factory, and commune with the little folk on Offaly's enchanted "fairy trails."
This 10-day, self-drive Irish adventure is ideal for families with kids of all ages, from toddlers to teens. Starting in Dublin, you'll drive west to Athlone and then continue on a loop around western and southern Ireland, visiting the Connemara region, the Cliffs of Moher, Killarney National Park, and other natural and cultural highlights. Along the way, you'll enjoy a range of fun activities and outings—from touring "haunted" castles to sunset kayaking and adventurous hikes.
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.
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.
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.
Experience highlights of both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland on this adventure-filled 13-day trip. Pick up your SUV rental car in Dublin and drive counterclockwise, first to Belfast, then on to the dramatic northern Causeway Coast, and down the west coast’s Wild Atlantic Way. There’ll be castles and culture aplenty, but the driving itself is one of the stars of the show, with spectacular views of mountains, lakes, cliffs, and sweeping beaches.
Nine days in Ireland affords you enough time to explore the natural highlights, including the Cliffs of Moher, Dingle, and the Ring of Kerry, as well as the city hotspots in Dublin. Spend less time in the Republic of Ireland and concentrate on the dramatic scenery of Northern Ireland. Visit Giant's Causeway and see Ardara's waterfalls along the Wild Atlantic Way. Choose a historic route that covers Kilkea Castle, Leap Castle, and Blarney Castle, or spend a few days hiking along the Wicklow Way and cover trails in Glenmalure, Glendalough, and Roundwood.
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.
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.
Combine the energetic capitals of Ireland and Northern Ireland with beautifully wild coastal adventures and remote island-hopping day trips on this well-rounded eight-day self-drive discovery. You'll go from the historical streets of Dublin to buzzing Belfast and on to the castles, waterfalls, and magnificent scenery of Antrim. Leave the mainland behind to explore the traditional islands of Rathlin and Islay—which lies in the Scottish Hebrides—before ultimately returning to Dublin.
This exciting self-guided road trip creates a major loop through the upper half of the Emerald Isle, hitting an impressive number of key attractions along the way. Start your adventure in Dublin and Belfast before heading counterclockwise along the northern coast, west to County Donegal, and south on the Wild Atlantic Way. Active types will appreciate the many opportunities to hike among Ireland's awe-inspiring scenery—and your feet will be rewarded with a luxury castle stay at the end of the trip.
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.
This nearly two-week adventure in Ireland is perfect for couples who seek a bit more luxury during a road trip. Your scenic route meanders through several western counties—Clare, Cork, Galway, Kerry, and Leitrim—where you'll partake in activities that range from hiking at a national park to horseback riding on a beach. Of course, there'll also be opportunities to relax at a spa. Start and end the trip with free time to explore Dublin, perhaps with a tour of Trinity College to see the Book of Kells.
Adventure, history, and nature await on this 11-day itinerary covering Ireland's eastern coast into Northern Ireland. Start your journey with a road trip from Dublin to Londonderry/Derry, stopping at places like Cooley Peninsula and Belfast. The second part of the trip is all about hiking, so lace up your walking shoes and immerse yourself in the verdant and breathtaking natural beauty of the Wicklow Mountains.
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.
Discover the treasures of Ireland and Northern Ireland during this nine-day self-drive adventure. Explore crumbling castles and ancient monasteries, sail to a historic Scottish island, and follow in the legendary footsteps of giants. Set off on cliffside treks and visit beautiful waterfalls—tackle the trail to the amazing secret waterfall if you dare. There's a modern side to this trip, too, with visits to thriving cities where you can hit the shops, stroll the streets, and take your pick of cutting-edge restaurants.
Experience Ireland's legendary "craic" (good times) in and around three of the country's best-loved cities. This round-trip self-drive from Dublin takes you to arts-loving Galway and the breathtaking hills of Connemara, then on to cosmopolitan Cork and the myth-shrouded Blarney Castle. There's plenty of time to stroll character-packed streets, admire historic landmarks, and check out traditional bars; perfect for independent travelers looking for a mix of sightseeing and downtime with the locals.
Six days in Ireland gives you enough time to explore the highlights, including Dublin, Kilkenny, and Galway. Or spend less time in the Republic of Ireland and focus on Northern Ireland's rugged landscape. Check out Giant's Causeway and drive the Wild Atlantic Way. Spend a few days hiking in the Wicklow Mountains National Park and cover trails in Marlay Park and Roundwood, or take a self-guided expedition on the west coast of County Kerry through Tralee, Annascaul, and Dingle.
Discover the best of Northern Ireland in less than a week on this self-guided road trip. First, get your feet wet in Dublin before you drive north to explore the up-and-coming capital of Belfast. Then visit famous coasts and natural attractions (some featured in Game of Thrones) like the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Portstewart Strand, and Wild Atlantic Way at your own pace. Before driving back to Dublin, you'll also get a night in medieval Londonderry (Derry)—known for its live-music scene.
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.
Experience all that Ireland has to offer on this six-day road trip. Travel back to the medieval streets of Dublin, where you can see one of the world's oldest manuscripts, then head to Kilkenny to touch the cool stone walls of its famous castle. Drive the Ring of Kerry to marvel at breathtaking views, and sit down to a feast in Galway, the first place in Ireland to be designated a European Region of Gastronomy. Whether looking for history, nature, or the adventure of a lifetime, this road trip has it all.
For a solid itinerary that covers Dublin or Belfast, plus outdoor activities in a few different counties, a 10-day trip is a great choice. With less time, you can still cover a lot of ground with a well-planned road trip. And lucky travelers with two weeks or more can hit several highlights around the entire island at a more relaxed pace. Check out some possible itineraries from 5 to 14 days below.
Ireland makes the ideal choice for a holiday with your true love: beautiful, mystery-steeped, constantly surprising and delighting, and one of the most warmly welcoming places on the planet. The enchanting Emerald Isle is country singer Johnny Cash's '40 Shades of Green', after all. Yes, you risk trading sunshine for far-wilder weather, but with some of the most dazzling coastline around, several millennia of poignant history and world-famous traditional music at its best when starting impromptu in a cosy traditional pub, this is a land highly charged with romance. Here are the best destinations for a honeymoon in Ireland.
Ten days in Ireland is enough to get to know a particular region, like the Dingle Peninsula or to travel more widely and see the country's highlights. Opt for a road trip around Northern Ireland, go on a western cycling tour of medieval castles and whiskey distilleries, hike the Dingle Peninsula and Blasket Islands on an outdoorsy adventure, or drive yourself around to the country's top attractions, including the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry.
With two weeks to spend, you can see as much of Ireland as you'd like—classic highlights and remote wonders alike—plus exploration of Northern Ireland. Take a road trip that includes key attractions, like the Cliffs of Moher and Ring of Kerry, or focus your time on one region—for example, you can drive the Wild Atlantic Way, hike the Dingle Peninsula, or bike the windswept coastal landscapes of the north.
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.
Looking for a trip to Ireland that mixes culture and history with outdoor adventure? This ten-day road trip has it all. Kick off the trip in Dublin, where you'll sightsee and taste locally brewed beer, then move onto colorful Galway before visiting one of the Aran Islands. You'll hike in Connemara National Park and visit 19th-century Glenveagh Castle, finishing up the trip with a trip to Giants Causeway and a final day and night in bustling Belfast.
Discover the scenic highlights of Northern Ireland on this well-rounded road trip. Starting in the ancient streets of Dublin, you'll set off by car to tour wild coastlines and charming towns at your own pace. Explore historic Belfast, cross the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, and wander through the medieval city of Londonderry before driving back to the capital city, where the trip ends.
In seven days, you can road trip through many of the country's best-loved places or stick to one region to go beyond the highlights. Pick up a rental car and hit the road to explore Killarney National Park and the Dingle Peninsula, enjoy urban adventures in Limerick, Belfast, and Galway, hike along the Antrim Coast, or cycle the beautiful Ring of Kerry: read on to learn more about your options.
Five days in Ireland is just enough time to visit a few key destinations. Start in Dublin and road-trip to Cork and the Cliffs of Moher—or, alternatively, to Dingle and the magnificent Ring of Kerry—or opt for a hiking adventure in Donegal or Kerry, where you'll have the chance to meet local people and hear traditional Irish music and language. Another option is to start in Belfast and drive to the northern coast to hike and horseback ride around the Glens of Antrim.
Experience the unique character of Irish cities on this self-drive tour around the county's urban centers. This weeklong trip takes you to the capital city of Dublin as well as colorful Cork, Limerick, and Galway. You'll dine in corner pubs, explore farmer's markets, tour medieval castles, and even escape to Blarney Castle—a short side trip from Cork—to kiss the famous Blarney Stone.
With the highest mountain range in Ireland as a backdrop, this self-guided cycling tour follows the world-famous Ring of Kerry. Starting and ending in Killarney National Park, the journey traces the coastline of the Iveragh Peninsula, taking you through picturesque villages and natural wonders on a mix of inland and coastal routes.
Explore Ireland’s hidden treasures along the Wild Atlantic Way on this unique 5-day self-guided tour in North Donegal. A unique Irish experience, this itinerary will inspire you with majestic mountains, beautiful coastlines, astounding sunsets, and picturesque landscapes: if you get lucky, you may even see the Northern Lights.
Spend five days exploring Northern Ireland's beautiful north coast. Featuring the Glens of Antrim, the Giant's Causeway, historic castles, attractive beaches, and a Bushmill's distillery where you can taste local whiskey—and even take home a bottle with your name on it.
