Ireland is without question, one of the most underrated countries in Europe.
From the country’s wild nature and rugged landscapes to the delicious locally grown produce, the rich and captivating history to the utterly friendly people, Ireland will win your over as soon as you’ve set foot into the country.
Add to that, that Ireland is the motherland of the world-famous Guinness beer, produces some of the finest whiskey on the planet, and it’s safe to say that Ireland breaths uniqueness and authenticity.
Ooh, and there are sheep. Lots of sheep!
Having now road-tripped through Ireland for nine days, ‘the Land of Saints and Scholars’, with its many interesting features has become one of my favourite trips of the year.
Starting in Dublin, my Ireland road trip has taken me to the majority of the highlights that are found along Ireland’s popular Wild Atlantic Way, including the Cliffs of Moher, Slieve League Cliffs, Connemara National Park, and the Fanad Lighthouse to name but a few.
As a result, this itinerary reflects my 9-day road trip along the Wild Atlantic Way, and talks you through my detailed route, while also providing all the essentials in terms of accommodation, weather, transportation and more.
Here’s my Ireland road trip itinerary – enjoy sorting out yours!
RENTING A CAR IN IRELAND
I highly believe that a destination like Ireland is best explored on your own set of wheels, as it provides all the freedom to travel around at your own pace.
And while driving on the left-hand side of the road is somewhat challenging at the beginning, the road infrastructure is extremely good, not to mention the views along the way.
One crucial thing you should be aware of though, is that the costs of renting a car in Ireland are some of the highest I’ve ever seen, with prices ranging from €400 to €600 a week during the high season. This includes free cancellation, theft protection and collision damage waiver.
If you choose to opt for a car with automatic transmission (which I highly recommend if you haven’t driven on the left before), the costs of car rental will average out at €600 to €800 per week.
All in all, a road trip in Ireland is far from cheap, and with the above in mind, I’d advise booking your rental car well in advance to save a few bucks.
For car rental in Ireland, I’d highly recommend Rentalcars.com. They offer brilliant service, additional insurance options, as well as a wide selection of cars to choose from. Prices and availability here.
I’ve also written a complete guide to driving in Ireland (coming soon), so make sure you check that one out too before planning your own road trip.
Accommodation | Where to stay in Ireland
Ireland, with its exceptional natural scenery, isn’t by any means a budget-friendly destination, this is clearly also the case when we’re talking accommodation.
During my road trip in Ireland, I noticed that the starting price for a standard double room ranges anywhere from €50 to €70 per night. One big upside though, is that in many cases, you’ll be staying in quite a luxurious hotel, apartment or guesthouse for only €15 extra.
If you’re travelling on a tight budget, €25 to €35 per night should be enough to get you a bed in one of the many great hostels that are dotted throughout the country.
Though prices are a little higher than elsewhere in Europe, the accommodation options in Ireland are actually pretty luxurious, which makes it a good value for the money.
BOOKING.COM
As a solo traveller, my favourite website to find accommodation is booking.com.
If you’re curious to see my recommendations, make sure you check the accommodation options I’ve marked under each day of this itinerary. Additionally, it’s also a good idea to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak summer months.
Accommodation | Find your perfect stay here.
MY IRELAND ITINERARY DAY TO DAY OVERVIEW
DAY 1 | Arrival in Dublin
DAY 2 | Car pickup, Cliffs of Moher and Galway
DAY 3 | Connemara National Park, Achill Island and Keem Beach
DAY 4 | Down Patrick Head, Mullaghmore Head and Classiebawn Castle
DAY 5 | Secret waterfall, Slieve League Cliffs and Glen head
DAY 6 | Fanad Lighthouse, Benbulbin Mountain and Gleniff Horseshoe
DAY 7 | Hill of Tara and drive back to Dublin
DAY 8 | Lough Tay, returning your rental car and exploring Dublin
DAY 9 | Exploring Dublin and catching your flight home
Day 1 | Arrival in Dublin
Given most International flights arrive in Dublin, it is most likely that your trip will start out here.
While it’s totally possible to book your rental car from the start of your trip, I’d advise anyone to first take some time to get their bearings in Dublin before picking up their rental at the airport.
Not only is a car unnecessary when spending time in Dublin, but you will also save a bunch of money, as the parking costs will add up quickly in the city centre.
Having said that, how you plan your first day in Dublin is highly dependent on your arrival time at the Dublin International Airport.
If your flight arrives in the morning or early afternoon, I’d suggest exploring some of Dublin’s many highlights straight away.
If you arrive late, opt for a top-notch burger at Feather Blade or a few pints at the Templebar instead, before catching up on some sleep at your accommodation.
Ooh, and don’t worry, this itinerary ends with two full days in Dublin!
Where I stayed | For my first night, I opted for the Templebar Rooms, a budget-friendly apartment at only a stone’s throw away from the Dublin city centre.
How to get to Dublin | Take the Dublin Express for a quick transfer to the city. A return ticket costs only €10,- per person.
Day 2 | Car pickup, Cliffs of Moher and Galway
After your first day in Dublin, it’s time to head back to the airport to pick up your rental car.
To me, this day started off with a mix of feelings of excitement and nervousness, given it was my first time ever driving on the left-hand side of the road. If it’s your first time too, make sure you take a few moments to practise in the parking lot of the car supplier, before setting out on the road.
Now that you’ve got a feel for the car, it’s officially time to start this Ireland road trip itinerary.
And to be honest, this part of the itinerary isn’t for the faint of heart, given you will start with almost a full day behind the wheel. Still, it’s absolutely one of the most rewarding days.
After covering lots of ground, you’ll reach your first stop, and immediately one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions; the sheer Cliffs of Moher.
Slightly isolated on Ireland’s rugged West Clare coast, the Cliffs of Moher is an otherworldly natural sight and an essential stop for anyone travelling along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Once arrived at the Cliffs of Moher, it takes around 2 hours to walk along the insanely rough cliffs, with some of the most incredible views along the way.
From the Cliffs of Moher, it’s time to continue in the direction of Galway, a lively harbour city where I’d highly recommend you to stay overnight.
Upon arrival in Galway, make sure you drop by at the Dough Bros for one of the best pizzas you will ever eat – believe me, you won’t regret it as they’re freakin’ delicious.
Where I stayed | I opted for The Continental Boutique Residence, a great hotel that offers great value for the price. It’s also pretty close to the city centre of Galway.
Related | Check out my Cliffs of Moher guide (coming soon) for inspiration, travel advice and essential information.
Driving time: 4,5 – 5 hours | Distance: 343 Kilometres
Day 3 | Connemara National Park, Achill Island and Keem Beach
Day three is off to an early start, as the morning is all about hiking the Upper Diamond Hill trail in the Connemara National Park.
But first, it is time for a scenic drive through the rugged landscape of County Galway, which was one of my favourite stretches of road during this road trip through Ireland.
After around 1,5 hours of driving along picture-perfect mountain peaks and lakes, you’ll reach the Connemara National Park, one of Ireland’s most prestigious national parks, and one of the absolute highlights on this itinerary.
Situated in the northwest of Connemara, this popular national park is home to the Upper Diamond Hill trail; a gentle 6-kilometre hiking loop that offers the most stunning views of both the Twelve Bens Range and the Valley of Glanmore.
Following the hike, it’s time to head in the direction of Achill Island and Keem Bay.
Even though it’s slightly off the by Google Maps advised route, I can’t stress it enough to drive via the exceptional Doolough Valley between Leenaun and Louisburgh – trust me, this place is simply too good to miss out on.
Once you’ve arrived on Achill Island, drive all the way west over winding mountain passages until you’ll reach Keem Bay, an unspoiled stretch of white-sanded beach that is flanked by rough seaside cliffs on either side.
The views over Keem Bay are like nowhere else in Ireland and the iconic setting causes for a moody and somewhat mysterious vibe, making it the perfect place to snap some stunning photographs while also having a well-needed moment to stretch your legs.
If you haven’t packed lunch, opt for a late lunch in one of Achill Island’s typical Irish pub-like cafeterias, before heading to Belmullet, where I’d advise you to stay for the night – since it’s nearby the stops that are planned for the next day.
Where I stayed | I’ve chosen to spend the night at Broadhaven Bay View House, a cosy family-run bed and breakfast in Belmullet.
Related | I’ve written an entire guide on the Connemara National Park, so make sure to read it for inspiration, travel advice and all the essential information.
Driving time: 6 – 7 hours | Distance: 312 Kilometres
Day 4 | Down Patrick Head, Mullaghmore Head and Classiebawn Castle
For day four, my plans had originally included the 3-hour Erris Head Loop Walk, but unfortunately, the weather gods had different plans for me. However, if the weather is in your favour, I’d still recommend doing this scenic walk along the rugged coast of Erris Head.
As a result, my first stop of the day took me to another incredible highlight found along the Wild Atlantic Way; the breathtaking Dún Briste sea stack of Downpatrick Head.
This 45 metres high sea stack was once connected to the mainland, but as a byproduct of rough seas and fierce weather conditions, it eventually got separated from the mainland.
While it’s a tad frightening due to the deep abyss, the sea stack of Dún Briste is a unique landmark to behold and thus an essential stop on any Ireland road trip itinerary.
From Downpatrick Head, make your way to Sligo, a lively town that makes the perfect base for explorations around County Sligo.
After a short lunch break and a quick check-in at your hotel, continue to Mullaghmore Head for the Classiebawn Castle, a privately owned castle with the towering Ben Bulben mountain as its backdrop. Though it’s not possible to enter the grounds, it truly is an epic scene to capture.
Once you’re done capturing some Instagram bangers, head back to Sligo for an afternoon of sightseeing and relaxation. While Sligo itself is rather small, the centre is worthy of an afternoon stroll.
Where I stayed | Make sure you stay at the Glasshouse, a comfortable hotel in the centre of Sligo.
Driving time: Around 3 hours | Distance: 193 Kilometres
Day 5 | Secret waterfall, Slieve League Cliffs and Glen head
Day five of this 9-day Ireland itinerary starts early, as it’s time to head to an undiscovered gem along Donegal’s scenic coastline; the Secret Waterfall in Donegal, also known as the Largy waterfall.
Completely hidden under the cliffs of Largy, this secret waterfall is reached by an adventurous hike, which takes you along muddy farmland, a secluded stretch of beach, and several boulders of rock, before reaching the remote waterfall.
Once arrived at the Secret Waterfall, you will be welcomed by a small, yet impressive waterfall that is still largely unexplored by those travelling along Ireland’s popular Wild Atlantic Way.
Following this off the beaten adventure, it’s time to continue along the Wild Atlantic Way in the direction of the Slieve League Cliffs, a set of 600-metre high sea cliffs that are without question the highlight of this day.
Located on the Donegal coastline, these impressive cliffs are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe and are definitely a must-see for anyone road tripping along the Wild Atlantic Way.
After hiking the incredible trail at Slieve League Cliffs, it’s time to set off to your last point of call for the day; the dramatic coastal cliffs of Glen Head in Glencolmcille.
On route to Letterkenny, and nestled on the edge of the towering cliffs, Glen Head is rugged, huge in size, and incredibly impressive to behold, especially when visiting around sunset, which is the case in this itinerary.
Once you arrive at the viewpoint, roll down your windows and watch an epic sunset unfold, before continuing in the direction of Letterkenny, where you will be spending the night.
Where I stayed | In Letterkenny, I decided to go for a little more comfort, so I chose to stay at the Radisson Blu Hotel, an excellent hotel with a sauna and swimming pool in the centre of Letterkenny.
Driving time: 4 – 5 hours | Distance: 212 Kilometres
Day 6 | Fanad Lighthouse, Benbulben Mountain and Gleniff Horseshoe
This morning is fully dedicated to driving to the far most Northern tip of Ireland to visit the incredibly scenic Fanad Lighthouse.
Perched on the eponymous Fanad Peninsula, the Fanad Lighthouse has been voted one of the most beautiful lighthouses in the world and is truly a photographer’s dream.
After snapping some awesome photography shots of the lighthouse, it’s time to head in the direction of Benbulben Mountain, another incredibly picturesque spot and easily one of my favourite stops on this Ireland itinerary.
Rising high above Drumcliffe village, the Benbulben Mountain is a gigantic flat-topped rock formation in the heart of County Sligo and is also part of the Dartry Mountains.
This iconic mountain range is best enjoyed by following the leisurely Benbulben Forest walk.
Situated at only a short distance from Benbulben is your next stop, the impressive Gleniff Horseshoe, a 10-kilometre hiking loop that offers sensational views of the encircling Dartry Mountains.
In the afternoon, head back to Sligo for an afternoon of exploring and relaxing – I’ve left this part of the itinerary open for you.
Where I stayed | I stayed at the Glasshouse, a comfortable hotel in the heart of Sligo Town.
Driving time: 3,5 hours | Distance: 222 Kilometres
Day 7 | Hill of Tara and drive back to Dublin
On day seven of this Ireland itinerary, I chose to sleep in and spend some extra time at the excellent breakfast buffet of the Glasshouse, before beginning the lengthy drive from Sligo to Dublin.
After a late check-out, it’s time to make your way to the Hill of Tara, an ancient ceremonial site that has great significance, given it is known as the inauguration place and seat of the High Kings of Ireland.
Legend has it, that the site has been in use for more than 5.000 years, and that it was once the ancient seat of power in Ireland. It is also said that during both prehistoric and historic times, a total of 142 kings reigned over the Hill of Tara.
While I’d have to admit that it’s not the most picturesque stop on this itinerary, I believe its long and captivating historical timeline is enough reason to include the Hill of Tara in your Ireland road trip itinerary.
From the Hill of Tara, it’s time for the last leg of the journey back to Dublin. This part of the trip should take around one more hour.
With a bit of luck, you’ll arrive in Dublin in the early afternoon, meaning there is plenty of time for a coffee break and explorations around town.
But let’s start with the coffee part. Brother Hubbard is the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon coffee, so make sure you grab one before exploring the vibrant streets of Dublin.
If you’re looking for the best things to see and do in Dublin, I’ve written an in-depth guide on Dublin, so make sure you read that one too!
Where I stayed | I stayed in the excellent Cassidy hotel in the centre of Dublin, which was both comfortable and quiet.
Driving time: 3,5 hours | Distance: 227 Kilometres
Day 8 | Lough Tay, Kilmainham Gaol Museum and returning your rental car
Now that you’re back in Dublin, it’s time to make your way to the breathtaking Wicklow Mountains.
Situated in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, Lough Tay is a stunningly beautiful lake that has become famous for its appearance as ‘Kattegat’ in History’s blockbuster series ‘Vikings’.
While the shore is private property, and thus not accessible to the public, you’ll notice several viewpoints along the road, offering the iconic view that made the ‘Guinness Lake’ famous.
From Lough Tay, head back to Dublin for a visit at the intriguing Kilmainham Gaol Museum, a former prison turned museum that reminds its visitors to Ireland’s tragic fight for independence.
Since parking fees in the city centre of Dublin add up quickly, I’d recommend dropping off your rental car at the airport after visiting the Kilmainham Gaol Museum in Dublin.
Once you’ve returned your rental, jump aboard the Dublin Express for a short transfer back to the city centre (make sure you buy a return ticket so you can use it again tomorrow).
After you’ve returned your rental car, there’s still plenty of time to explore Dublin, so make sure to check out my guide to Dublin to make the most of your day.
Where I stayed | I’ve stayed a second night at the Cassidys Hotel.
Driving time: 2 hours | Distance: 100 Kilometres
Day 9 | Exploring Dublin and catching your flight home
Depending on your flight time, the last day of your itinerary will be all about catching your flight home.
If you have a late flight though, you can still squeeze in some sightseeing in the morning, before heading to the airport.
Since my flight was at 17:15, I was fortunate enough to visit the iconic Guinness Storehouse Factory (which is a must-visit for anyone travelling to Dublin), as well as revisiting a few spots that I visited earlier on this trip, including Murphy’s Ice Cream, Dublin’s best ice cream shop.
Then, after 9 incredible days in Ireland, it is sadly time to pack your stuff and head to the airport.
Weather in Ireland | Best time to visit
It is largely known that the weather in Ireland is far from predictable, meaning you could experience all four seasons in a matter of one day.
While you should always bear in mind the potential weather changes, I’d believe the best time to plan your Ireland road trip itinerary is during the summer months of June, July and August, when the days are longer and the weather is slightly more stable.
Additionally, the shoulder months of April, May and September will still offer enjoyable circumstances – plus you will experience smaller crowds when visiting the major highlights along the Wild Atlantic Way too.
How to get to Ireland
FLIGHTS
Whether you’re from neighbouring England or Scotland, or from the other side of the world, it is safe to say that the easiest way to get to Ireland is by air.
Most international flights to Ireland arrive at the Dublin International Airport, situated around 20 minutes north of the city centre of Dublin, Ireland’s iconic capital city.
Dublin Airport is extremely well kept and hosts a great range of international flights, including those from major hubs in Europe, North America, and the Middle East.
While Dublin International Airport is clearly your best pick, you can also choose to fly into the country via the airports at Cork, Shannon and Knock. For this Ireland itinerary, however, I’d recommend entering the country at Dublin.
For flights to Ireland, I would advise the use of Skyscanner. Not only is their website super user-friendly, but they also offer a great selection of airlines and the option to find good rates.
Safety in Ireland | Travel insurance
Given travelling in Ireland is all about the outdoors, I recommend everyone to sort out good travel insurance before setting out on their own road trip adventure.
Where we prefer that everything goes smoothly during our travels, something unfortunate can happen at any moment, whether it’s an injury during a hike, a stolen camera, or an accident on the road.
For travel insurance, I use Heymondo, as they offer full covid-19 coverage, as well as a handy app with 24-hour medical assistance. Make sure you check it out – readers of WTSW receive 5% off any insurance policy too. Additionally, I also recommend World Nomads.
