Best Ireland Self-Drive Tours & Itineraries - Compare 42 Trip Ideas

The Cliffs of Moher on Ireland's wild western coast

Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway - 5 Days

Hit the road and see the best of the Emerald Isle on this 5-day self-driving jaunt through Ireland. Walk the ancient streets of Dublin, kiss the Blarney Stone in Cork, visit the famous heritage town of Killarney, take in breathtaking views of the Cliffs of Moher, and revel in the energy of bohemian Galway. From windswept Atlantic coastlines to bustling city streets, this itinerary is perfect for independent travelers looking to pack some of Ireland's most iconic sights into a short space of time.

Classic Ireland Adventure - 7 Days

This guided road trip is the perfect introduction to Ireland for newbies. Over a week, you'll visit both classic icons and some off-the-beaten-path sites—paired with beautiful landscapes and gentle walks to breathe in the fresh air of Ireland's spectacular Wild Atlantic Way. In the evenings, partake in the local pub experience with a pint of Guinness and traditional Irish music. The tour starts and ends in Dublin, where you can bike and kayak to some of the capital's best sites.

Take a drive through the Irish countryside

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.

The medieval ruins of Ross Castle, Killarney National Park.

Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Killarney, Dingle & Galway - 7 Days

Experience the best of Ireland's coastal scenery, historic sites, and vibrant cities on this week-long self-drive adventure. Starting in Dublin, this circular route takes you south to the Rock of Cashel and Ireland's second city of Cork, before heading into the wilds of Killarney National Park and along the spectacularly scenic Ring of Kerry. After a day spent exploring the Slea Peninsula and the seaside village of Dingle, you'll head up the west coast to hike along the Cliffs of Moher and spend a final night in Galway, enjoying the music, arts, and "craic" of the European cultural capital.

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.

A young family explores beautiful Killarney National Park

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 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.

Southwest Ireland Road Trip: Cliffs of Moher, Dingle, Ring of Kerry, Dublin - 9 Days

See the best of southwestern Ireland and Dublin on this self-driving tour through some of the Emerald Isle's best-loved counties. You'll discover Ireland's history in Adare and at Bunratty Castle, explore the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, wander the streets of Dingle, and view County Kerry's sparkling lakes and iconic green meadows. Before exploring Dublin's Trinity College and Grafton Street shops, you'll visit Cobh to sample local foods at The English Market and hear the bells of Shandon Steeple.

Brightly painted houses in the seaside town of Cobh

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.

Winding roads through Connemara National Park.

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 beautiful beaches of Achill Island, County Mayo

Northern Ireland & Dublin Road Trip - 7 Days

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.

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.

Wander Northern Ireland's Belfast and hop aboard the Belfast Eye

North Ireland Road Trip: Belfast, Donegal, Westport & Galway - 10 Days

This relaxed 10-day trip takes you on a scenic self-drive tour of Ireland's north. Pick up your car in Dublin and head to Northern Ireland to spend two days exploring Belfast and the Giant's Causeway. Cross into Ireland to journey through the counties of Donegal, Sligo, Mayo, and Galway, where you'll stand atop the majestic Slieve League cliffs, hike up Connemara National Park's rugged mountains, and drive sections of the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way. Spend your evenings in charming and atmospheric towns like the music hub of Westport, the picturesque harbor of Portstewart, and the bustling bayside of Donegal.

Ireland Self-Drive & Hiking Highlights - 9 Days

Take yourself through the scenery of Ireland on your own power with this self-driving and hiking itinerary. Your path will take you through buzzing cities rich with history, like Dublin and Cork, along with the natural wonders of the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands, with plenty of opportunities to get out to stretch your legs and see the country from the trails along the way.

Spectacular views from the Ring of Kerry

Ultimate Ireland Road Trip: Dublin, Kilkenny, Killarney & Galway - 6 Days

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.

Northern Ireland Self-Drive Adventure - 10 Days

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.

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.

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.

Walk across the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge while exploring the Antrim Coast

Northern Ireland & Dublin Road Trip - 6 Days

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.

The colorful town of Cobh, the Titanic's last port of call

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.

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.

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.

Check out Northern Ireland's Dunluce Castle

Northern Ireland & The West Road Trip - 9 Days

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.

Admire the sunset over the Irish coast with the kids

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.

Cross the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge in Ballycastle

Northern Ireland & the West Coast - 13 Days

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.

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.

Kick off the trip in Northern Ireland as you drive along the scenic Antrim Coast

Irish Self-Drive Adventure: Belfast to Dublin - 11 Days

Explore the cities, coast, villages, and countryside of Ireland's north on this active 11-day adventure. It begins in Belfast with city tours, followed by a road trip to highlights like the Antrim Coast, Giant's Causeway, and Glenveigh National Park. After sampling fine Irish whiskeys at the Bushmills Distillery, you'll visit castles and hill forts on your way to colorful Galway, eventually finishing the trip on the wild streets of Dublin.

Stand at the edge of the famous Cliffs of Moher for those impressive snapshots

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.

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.

Adventure in Southern Ireland: Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway - 11 Days

On this 11-day journey through southern Ireland, you'll eat, drink, and travel like a local. In Dublin, you'll see highlight landmarks on walking tours plus imbibe at the famous Jameson Distillery and Guinness Storehouse. Then hit the road and enjoy the stunning scenery of counties Cork, Kerry, and Galway as you take boat trips, visit the Cliffs of Moher, embark on nature hikes, tour historic villages, and much more.

Begin and end your Irish adventure in Dublin

Ireland Self-Drive Cultural Tour - 9 Days

Go off the beaten track on this self-drive history and cultural tour of Ireland that takes you to some of the country's most beautiful regions and noteworthy landmarks. From Dublin, you'll visit ancient burial mounds, travel the Wild Atlantic Way, hike through national parks, and tour historic castles. For a bit of fun, you'll enjoy nights out at local pubs and walking tours of vibrant cities like Galway and Dublin.

Walk up to a waterfall in Northern Ireland at Glenariff Forest Park

Best of Northern & Western Ireland - 13 Days

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.

Make memories with your family as you explore Ireland's the Ring of Kerry

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!

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.

Explore County Kildare and see idyllic sights like the old ruins of Ballinafagh Church

Self-Drive Southern Loop of Ireland: Dublin to Kildare - 12 Days

See Ireland's beautiful scenery on this epic 12-day self-drive tour, which will take you on a loop from Dublin to Kildare. Explore Dublin's attractions and Medieval Quarter, hike in Wicklow Mountains National Park, and relax on the Copper Coast Beaches. Then head to Cork for a food tour and castle visit, drive the picturesque Ring of Kerry, and see the Irish-speaking Aran Islands before finishing your journey in Kildare and returning to Dublin.

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.

See Northern Ireland's natural wonder, the Giant's Causeway

Emerald Isle Self-Drive Adventure - 15 Days

This epic 15-day road trip covers the best of Ireland, from the cities to the countryside. It begins with walking tours of Dublin, then you'll hop in a car and drive south to the castles and colorful towns of gorgeous County Cork. Among the other highlights of this unforgettable trip, you'll drive the Wild Atlantic Way, visit the Cliffs of Moher, tour whiskey distilleries, and cross over to Northern Ireland to discover vibrant Belfast and explore the scenic Antrim Coast.

The Slieve League, Irelands highest sea cliffs

Ireland's Wild Northwest - 12 Days

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.

Soak up innovative cuisine and great craic on a tour of Ireland's best foodie hotspots

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.

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.

Sea views from historic Charles Fort in Kinsale

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.

Snap those family pics as you explore Ireland's great outdoors

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.

There's plenty of sand and surf as you roadtrip along Ireland's west coast

Ireland Castles & Coast Family Road Trip - 14 Days

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.

The path from Doolin to the Cliffs of Moher

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.

Ireland's Heritage & Legends - 11 Days

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.

Experience the highlights of Ireland's southern counties, like historic Kilkenny

Road Trip Through Ireland's South - 13 Days

Grab your passport and keys because you're off on an epic road trip around Ireland's scenic south. See firsthand why they call this the Emerald Isle as you drive along rolling green hills, shimmering lakes, medieval villages, and historic castles on your way through various countries, from Cork to Limerick. As a bonus, you'll enjoy city tours of Dublin, hiking coastal cliffs, whiskey tastings, and more.

Discover Galway's thriving culinary scene

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.

Spot rainbows as you drive along the famous Ring of Kerry

Southern Ireland & Dublin Grand Tour - 13 Days

Explore the south of Ireland at your own pace on this unforgettable 13-day road trip. You'll experience its history, culture, and great outdoors on a variety of excursions that include nature hikes, visiting working sheep farms, touring coastal villages, exploring national parks, and sailing across glassy lakes. As if that's not enough, you'll drive the legendary Ring of Kerry and cap the trip the Irish way—with a whiskey tasting.