Last Updated on March 22, 2026

When you think of rugged landscapes, Guinness beer, warm hospitality, and driving on the left side of the road, you’re thinking of Ireland! After an incredible trip to Iceland, my friend and I decided to keep the road trip tradition alive. And Ireland was calling our names! We spent 11 unforgettable days exploring the Emerald Isle on a fantastic road trip. In this article, I’m excited to share our 11-day Ireland road trip itinerary, along with some handy tips to make your trip smooth and memorable. Let’s dive in!

Estimated reading time: 26 minutes

10 Useful things to know before traveling to Ireland

1. Driving on the left: Ireland drives on the left, which can take some time getting used to. To make it easier, we requested a car with automatic transmission so we could focus on the road rather than shifting gears.
2. Currency differences: Ireland uses euros (€), but Northern Ireland (part of the UK) uses pounds (£). Since this itinerary covers both, bring both currencies or a card that works in both regions.
3. Small rental cars: Rental cars in Ireland often have limited trunk space. Pack a soft-sided suitcase. It’s easier to fit than a hard-shell one.
4. Expect narrow roads: Many rural roads in Ireland are narrow and winding. Drive slowly and confidently. Allow extra travel time to enjoy the scenic routes. You might want to make some extra stops to enjoy the views.
5. Check your Insurance: Make sure you have comprehensive car rental insurance before your trip. Many roads in Ireland are narrow and lined with stone walls, making scratches or bumps more likely. Double-check if your credit card or travel insurance covers rentals, or consider purchasing extra coverage for peace of mind.
6. Offline maps are essential: Cell service can be spotty, especially in rural areas. Download offline maps like Maps.me or rent a GPS with your car to avoid getting lost.
7. Plan your stops in advance: We mapped out our itinerary ahead of time, including realistic daily stops. This ensured we had enough time to fully enjoy each destination without feeling rushed.
8. Be weather-ready: Ireland’s weather is famously unpredictable: sun, rain, and wind can all happen in one day. Pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and sturdy shoes to stay comfortable.
9. Bring a travel adapter: Ireland and Northern Ireland use Type G plugs. Don’t forget an adapter to keep your devices charged throughout the trip.
10. Tipping culture: Tipping in Ireland isn’t mandatory, but is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, leave 10-15% if the service charge isn’t included.

Overview 11-day Ireland road trip itinerary

Day 1: Dublin to Ballymena

After landing in Dublin, we picked up our rental car and set off on our adventure! The drive to Ballymena was smooth and scenic, with lush green fields and charming villages along the way. We arrived at the Adair Arms Hotel, a cozy and welcoming spot in the heart of Ballymena. It had the perfect blend of comfort and charm, making it a great choice for our one-night stay. After unpacking, we took a quick stroll around the town to get a feel for the local vibe.

Day 2: Ballymena to Londonderry

After breakfast, we hit the road to visit the Titanic Museum in Belfast (location), where we had pre-booked tickets and an audio guide (consider Viator or GetyourGuide for pre-booking your tickets). The museum, located near the Titanic slipways and Harland & Wolff Shipyard, tells the full story of the Titanic, with exhibits like wreckage, a replica of the ship’s rooms, and the names of those who perished. It was an impressive experience. Next, we explored the SS Nomadic, Titanic’s tender ship, located at Hamilton Dock. It’s the last White Star Line ship in existence and has been fully restored.

Tip: if you like game of thrones, make sure to have a seat at the Glass of Thrones. It’s free and just around the corner of the SS Nomadic.

We then wandered into Belfast, passing Victoria Street to reach the City Hall (location). The city hall is a beautiful building to see. You can enjoy a guided tour of the City Hall. Tour tickets are available on a first-come, first served basis. We were also very impressed of the street art in Belfast. They all have a different message/story.

Walking down the lively Duke of York Street, we stopped by a popular bar with live music before heading to the Belfast Cathedral (location). Inside, a hand-crafted pall honors the 1,517 Titanic victims. You are welcome to explore the cathedral yourself. There is a small £3 admission charge and they offer a guidebook for £1. If you wish to use our Audio Guide or have a Cathedral Steward take you on a guided tour, the charge is £7. Guidebooks are available in English, Spanish, Italian, French, German and Mandarin.

Our journey continued to the Dark Hedges (location), a picturesque beech tree-lined road famous for appearing in Game of Thrones and Transformers. Despite the crowds, it was a must-see. The trees form an arch, creating a beautiful sight. You need to park your car nearby and walk the last part. Although it was quite crowded when we were there, it was definitely worth it.

Tip: GetyourGuide offers a great fully-guided Game of Thrones day tour to the Giant’s Causeway from Belfast. This tour takes you to see the famous sights and the stunning scenery along the Antrim coast before reaching the Giant’s Causeway.

Before we drove to our B&B, we passed The Giant Causeway (location). The Giant Causeway is a long road with large basalt blocks. This area is a Unesco World Heritage Site. We took an audio guide along the way. As we walked, different stories about the history of The Giant Causeway were told. The views were fantastic. You can choose to walk, but you can also take a bus, which takes you to a few points. There is also a visitor centre at this area. At the visitor centre, there was a small shop and you could find more information about The Giant Causeway. Visit the official website for more information.

We stayed this night at B&B Arkle House in Londonderry.

Day 3: Londonderry to Letterkenny

We kicked off the day with a city walk in Londonderry, soaking up its rich history and nice atmosphere. Our first stop was the stunning Bishop’s Gate (location), where we crossed the old city walls, offering glimpses of the past. Londonderry is a city that tells its story through its streets, and walking through it was like stepping back in time. We also passed by The Diamond War Memorial (location), a poignant tribute to the citizens who gave their lives in military service during World War I.

Next, we visited the Guildhall (location), a stunning building with a lovely square in front. Once a hub where traders came to collect taxes, the Guildhall is now a cultural center with beautiful stained-glass windows and a rich history. I think it’s a must-see for anyone visiting Londonderry.

Our next stop was the St. Columb’s Cathedral (location), the oldest church within Londonderry’s city walls. The cathedral is home to a gorgeous organ and intricate stained-glass windows, adding to its serene charm. Entrance is free, though donations are appreciated to help preserve this historic gem.

From there, we continued our way to Grianan of Aileach (location), a stone perched atop a hill. The views from here are simply breathtaking. You can see the water sparkle and you have a good overview of the entire Inishowen peninsula.

A little further down the road, we visited Slieve League (location), one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs. The views were nothing short of spectacular, and with its rich history, Slieve League is definitely a must-see heritage site!

Before heading to Letterkenny, we drove through Glenveagh National Park (location), a remote nature reserve offering endless opportunities for outdoor exploration. We took a free scenic walk along the water, with the magnificent Glenveagh Castle (location) visible in the distance. The Castle is open daily for Self Guided (Adult €7) and some limited Guided Tours (except Wednesdays). A Castle Tour cannot be booked in advanced of your visit.

We wrapped up the day at Dillon’s Hotel in Letterkenny, a cozy place to relax after a day filled with adventure.

Day 4: Letterkenny to Mayo

We kicked off the day with a stroll through Letterkenny, a charming town nestled between the stunning Donegal mountains and the glacial fjord of Lough Swilly. Letterkenny is an arts and culture hub, with vibrant streets and plenty of local charm. We couldn’t miss St. Eunan’s Cathedral (location), a 19th-century church that stands proudly in the heart of the town. Its impressive architecture and graveyard make it a must-visit spot in Letterkenny.

Next, we headed to the magical Fairy Bridges (location) and The Wishing Chair, hidden gems along the Wild Atlantic Way and well worth a visit! The rock formations look like bridges. Don’t forget to sit on the Wishing Chair. It’s said that if you follow the ritual (sitting slowly, tapping the chair twice, and keeping your wish secret), your wish just might come true! 😉

We then drove by Classiebawn Castle (location), a magnificent mansion that was featured in the series The Crown. From the viewpoint, you can see the impressive castle perched above the coast, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

For lunch, we stopped in Sligo, a charming port town and the capital of County Sligo. With its cozy square, quirky shops, and friendly cafés, Sligo made for the perfect pitstop to enjoy a homemade treat.

Our next stop was Pul Na Sean Tinne (location), part of Downpatrick Head (location), where you can clearly see the fault line in the rock formations caused by years of wave erosion. The unique coastal landscape here is fascinating, with three holes in the rock where the sea has worn through. One of the highlights here is Dún Briste (location), a towering, freestanding rock at the edge of the cliffs. It’s one of the most stunning spots we visited on this trip and it was perfect for taking in the view and snapping some memorable photos.

Before heading to our cozy B&B, we made a final stop at the Claggan Mountain Coastal Trail (location). This well-maintained path leads you through Ballycroy National Park, with a panoramic viewpoint offering sweeping views of the landscape. A perfect way to stretch our legs and take in the fresh air!

We ended the day at Woodview House, a charming B&B in Achill Sound, Mayo, where we rested up for another day of exploring.

Day 5: Mayo to Galway

We kicked off the day with a relaxing beach walk at Dugort Beach (location), where we arrived just in time to catch a yoga class on the sand. It was a peaceful start to the day.

Afterward, we headed to Slievemore Deserted Village (location), an ancient settlement of around 100 stone cottages. While only a few remnants of these houses remain, it’s believed that people lived here for over 5,000 years, up until the 19th century.

Next, we made our way to Keem Beach (location), a nice spot with stunning views once you arrive. The drive there is a bit winding, but totally worth it. After soaking in the beach vibes, we continued to the White Cliffs of Ashleam Viewpoint (location). The narrow, zigzagging road takes you to one of the most scenic panoramic views of the cliffs and the wild Atlantic Ocean.

From there, we drove to Grace O’Malley’s Castle (location), a 15th-century national monument perched on the Mayo coastline. Built to protect the region and keep an eye on the coastline, the castle’s historic charm adds to its already incredible location.

For lunch, we stopped in the charming village of Westport (location). This town has so much to offer, from delicious food and drinks to lively pubs perfect for a bit of dancing. After a pleasant stroll around town, we headed to our next stop: the Leenane Hotel in Galway. This cozy hotel had incredible views of Killary Fjord, making it the perfect place to unwind for the next two nights.

In the evening, we drove to Aasleagh Falls (location). The falls are a hidden gem, tucked away near a sharp bend, so many people miss it. But the path and jetty near the falls give you a perfect view of the rushing water. Iif you’re lucky, you might even spot fish leaping above the surface!

Day 6: Galway and Connemara

The next morning, after a hearty breakfast, we set off for Kylemore Abbey (location), built in 1868. The stunning abbey and its surrounding gardens are open to visitors, though we decided to admire the view from a nearby viewpoint. The scenery was simply breathtaking. We then drove along the famous Sky Road (location), starting and ending in Clifden, the capital of Connemara. The viewpoint along the way offered fantastic views of Clifden Bay and the surrounding landscapes.

From there, we headed to Pines Island (location), one of our favorite spots of the trip. This small island on Derryclare Lough is a photographer’s dream, with the majestic Twelve Bens mountains in the background. It was one of those places where you just have to pause and take it all in.

On the way back to our hotel, we passed through Recess and stopped at the Ashford Castle (location) and St. Mary’s Church (location), both offering their own slice of Irish history and charm. Ashford Castle offers a unique experience with accommodations in a historic 800-year-old castle. Here you can enjoy activities like horseback riding, fishing, falconry, archery, and spa treatments, as well as guided tours of the castle.

Day 7: Exploring cliffs, charming towns, and cozy stops

We kicked off Day 7 with a visit to the Cliffs of Moher (location), one of Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders. The area is vast, with a visitor center, winding paths along the cliffs, and O’Brien’s Tower (location), a 19th-century observation point. Admission to the Cliffs of Moher Experience includes access to the visitor center, walking paths, O’Brien’s Tower, and additional services like free Wi-Fi, restrooms, and a picnic area. Prices for tickets are lower if booked online ;). Gate rates for adults are €12. The climb to the top was steep at times, but the breathtaking views of the Atlantic made it worth every step. I recommend to visit outside peak hours (11 am – 4 pm) for a quieter experience.

Next, we hit the road to Ennis, the capital of County Clare. From there, we drove to Adare, often called Ireland’s prettiest village. At The Good Room (location), we indulged in delicious tea, coffee, and homemade treats.

Afterward, we wandered through the park and visited the Trinitarian Monastery (location), famous for its intricate stonework and stunning stained-glass windows.

Finally, we arrived in Killarney, a vibrant town in County Kerry known for its beautifully decorated facades and friendly vibe. We checked into our cozy stay at Tara Farm B&B, where we spent two relaxing nights.

Day 8: The scenic Ring of Kerry

The next morning, we set out to drive the Ring of Kerry, a spectacular 179-kilometer loop showcasing the natural beauty of the Iveragh Peninsula. We stopped at the Ladies View (location) and Torc Waterfall (location). Two free sights with amazing views!

We then explored Muckross House (location), a 19th-century manor surrounded by beautiful gardens and paths leading to Muckross Abbey, a monastery with a graveyard. For full details on admission, opening hours, and ticket options, visit Muckross House’s website. The unique feature of this monastery is the tree that grows right in its center. It was also a shoot location for the Dutch television program Het Perfecte Plaatje (The Perfect Picture), a photography competition featuring Dutch celebrities. The monastery is truly a stunning and special place. When we visited, sunlight filtered through the trees, creating magical lighting that resulted in some truly beautiful photos.

Next, we stumbled upon the Killarney Brewing & Distilling Co. (location), a local gem producing whiskey and beer. Each region in Ireland boasts its own whiskey, and this was the perfect place to sample County Kerry’s offering. The brewery offers a guided experience where you can explore the brewing process and enjoy a selection of Killarney beers. The tour lasts about 60 minutes, showcasing the artistry behind brewing with views of the surrounding mountains. You’ll also get to taste the brewery’s finest beers in a dedicated tasting room. For more details or to book, check out the tour here.

Continuing the loop, we stopped at the Mountain Stage Viewpoint (location) for sweeping vistas of valleys and countryside. Hiking trails here are perfect for stretching your legs while soaking in the scenery.

As we drove along, we reached the dramatic Kerry Cliffs (location), offering panoramic views of the rugged coastline. Nearby, we explored the Beehive Villages (location), ancient stone huts once used by monks or locals as shelters.

Along the way, we couldn’t resist a stop at the Skelligs Chocolate Factory (location), where we sampled unique, locally-made chocolates. Of course, we brought some home as souvenirs! 🙂

The route took us past landmarks like Loher Stone Fort (location), Farraniaragh Viewpoint (location), and eventually back to our accommodation in Killarney.

Day 9 and 10: Kerry to Dublin

After packing up our bags once again, we set off for a long travel day across the country. While our goal was to reach Dublin “early,” we couldn’t resist a few memorable stops along the way.

Our first break was in Bantry, a charming town in County Cork. Known for its historic harbor, it truly felt like stepping back in time.

Next up was Cork, where we headed straight to the iconic English Market (location). This bustling market is a feast for the senses, offering everything from freshly baked bread and sushi to tea, coffee, meat, and fish.

Afterward, we strolled through the streets of Cork. While we enjoyed our visit, we had slightly higher expectations for Cork. It just didn’t wow us as much as we’d hoped. Still, it was worth a stop to experience Ireland’s second-largest city.

After a long drive, we finally arrived in Dublin, where we checked into the Plaza Hotel for our last two nights of this amazing Ireland road trip itinerary.

Day 11: Exploring Dublin

The next morning, we headed into the city early. Driving in Dublin wasn’t too bad for us. We compared it to Amsterdam, but Dublin felt less hectic. Parking was easy. We found a spot in a car park and were in the city in no time.

Our first stop was Trinity College (location), where we wandered through the historic campus before heading into the famous Old Library. This space usually houses around 200,000 books, but many were being restored during our visit. Even with only a portion of the collection on display, the sight was absolutely magical. A special highlight was Gaia, a stunning illuminated sculpture of Earth by artist Luke Jerram.

Fun fact: This artwork had previously been displayed in the Woudagemaal Steam Pumping Station in Lemmer, Friesland, my hometown!

Next, we dived into the Book of Kells Experience (location), where we learned all about this beautifully illustrated 9th-century manuscript. The intricate calligraphy and illustrations are breathtaking. While you can’t take photos in the secure room housing the manuscript, the experience itself was unforgettable. Visit the official website to get a glimpse of all the available tours.

Kim had brought along a guidebook with curated walking routes, so we set off to explore Dublin’s must-see spots. Early in our walk, we stumbled upon the Keywest singers performing on a street corner. Their music created such a lively, cheerful vibe. It was definitely a highlight of our trip!

Our walking route took us past:

• Fusiliers’ Arch (location)
• St. Ann’s Church (location)
• The National Museum of Ireland (location)
• St. Andrew’s Church (location)
• Dublin Castle (location)

We also visited the iconic Temple Bar neigborhood (location), and let me tell you, it’s just as charming as you’d imagine! The colorful facades, authentic decors, and live bands made it the heart of Dublin’s pub culture. It was cozy, lively, and oozing with Irish charm.

After all that walking, we were ready to refuel. We stopped by the River Bar (location), caught some of the Olympics on TV, and enjoyed a delicious meal. It was the perfect way to wrap up our final day in Dublin and our Ireland road trip.

Conclusion

Ireland is an absolutely stunning country, with its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and charming mix of cities and villages. If you’re looking for adventure, culture, or just a place to relax, Ireland has it all! I hope this itinerary gave you an idea of what to expect when visiting Ireland. Make sure to keep the 10 tips at the beginning of this article in mind when preparing for your Ireland road trip. I hope you will enjoy Ireland as much as I did. Trust me, it’s a place you definitely don’t want to miss.

If you have any questions about the above mentioned information, please let me know in the comment section below. I’m happy to help you. Safe travels!

Author: Reizenbytamara (insta: @reizenbytamara and tiktok: @reizenbytamara).
All photos by Reizenbytamara

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