Ireland 8-Day Self-Drive Tours & Itineraries

Explore 6 self-drive trips designed by local kimkim specialists to get ideas for your trip to Ireland.
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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.

Winding roads through Connemara National Park.
Map of North Ireland Road Trip: Belfast, Donegal & Galway - 8 Days
North Ireland Road Trip: Belfast, Donegal & Galway - 8 Days

Discover the scenic highlights of Ireland's north on this varied 8-day self-drive 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 Belfast and tick the Giant's Causeway off your bucket list in Northern Ireland before crossing into Ireland to hike in the majestic Connemara National Park, discover the atmospheric music town of Westport, and end your adventure in the vibrant cultural capital of Galway. 

The Giant's Causeway
Map of Northern Ireland & Dublin Road Trip - 8 Days
Northern Ireland & Dublin Road Trip - 8 Days

Independent travelers will experience the magic of Northern Ireland on their own terms with this self-guided road trip itinerary. Start with an informal walking tour of Dublin, then pick up your rental car and begin your adventure. You'll experience the vibrant culture of Galway, go hiking in Connemara and Glenveagh National Parks, tick the Giant's Causeway off your bucket list, explore Belfast, and see more charming corners of the Emerald Isle.

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 colorful town of Cobh, the Titanic's last port of call
Map of Ireland's Beautiful Cities: Dublin, Galway & Cork - 8 Days
Ireland's Beautiful Cities: Dublin, Galway & Cork - 8 Days

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.

Antrim Coast
Map of Dublin, Northern Ireland & the Isle of Islay - 8 Days
Dublin, Northern Ireland & the Isle of Islay - 8 Days

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.

Other durations: 7 days · 8 days · 9 days · 10 days · 11 days · 12 days · 13 days · 14 days