Ireland is a country made for road trips. Its winding roads take you past lush green fields, ancient castles, and breathtaking coastal views. But let me tell you—driving in Ireland was an adventure in itself! This was my first time driving on the opposite side of the car and the road, so the learning curve was steep.
At first, the highways were relatively easy, but the narrow rural roads were a different story. Picture this: stone walls lining both sides, barely enough room for two cars to pass, and my heart pounding as I squeezed through tight one-way roads. At one point, I nearly drove up a wall to avoid an oncoming car (thankfully, no scratches!). While driving was a central theme of this trip, the real highlights lay in the stunning landscapes, historic landmarks, and vibrant local culture we discovered along the way.
This itinerary will guide you through Ireland's highlights while sharing tips to make driving less daunting in this enchanting country.
Ireland What to Do: Unforgettable Stops on a 5-Day Road Trip
Day 1: Arriving in Dublin
After landing in Dublin in the morning, I was relieved to leave driving for another day and explore the city on foot. Dublin is a blend of history and modern energy, and I jumped right in by visiting Dublin Castle, a historic site that has been everything from a Viking fortress to a seat of British rule.
Next, I wandered to Trinity College to see the Book of Kells. This stunning illuminated manuscript is over 1,200 years old, and the surrounding Long Room Library, with its towering shelves of ancient books, felt like stepping into a fairytale.
Lunch at Queen of Tarts provided a cozy break before I headed to Temple Bar, a vibrant district buzzing with street performers and tourists. Naturally, I enjoyed my first pint of Guinness at the Guinness Storehouse, where the rooftop bar offered panoramic city views.
Day 2: From Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher
When I picked up the rental car, I adjusted nervously to sitting on the vehicle's opposite side and navigating the road's opposite side. The drive westward included a stop in Athlone, where I explored Athlone Castle, a medieval gem perched on the River Shannon.
Reaching the Cliffs of Moher was a moment of pure awe. Standing at the edge with the Atlantic crashing below felt like a reward for the drive. I parked at the visitor center and walked up and down the walkway along the cliffs. Afterward, I enjoyed dinner in Doolin at McGann's Pub—fresh fish and chips accompanied by traditional Irish music. That night's nearby Airbnb, tucked into the countryside, offered a peaceful escape as I fell asleep to the sound of crickets.
Day 3: Burren National Park and Valentia Island
The following day began with a drive to Burren National Park. Almost out of nowhere, the landscape transformed, and I found myself surrounded by surreal limestone pavements and wildflowers. Unsure of exactly where to park, I stopped at a marked trailhead and began walking along the road. A short distance later, I noticed more cars parked closer to where the Mullaghmore Loop trail actually started; I probably would have parked there in hindsight.
Hiking the Mullaghmore Loop was an adventure in itself. As we made our way across the jagged rocks, the weather turned—rain began to fall, and the wind picked up as we climbed to the top. The dramatic views and the sight of wild goats roaming the backside of the hill made it all worthwhile.
Once back at the car, we set off for Valentia Island, driving through County Kerry's incredible scenery. The stunning landscapes along the way made me wish I had more time to explore.
Valentia Island offered its own magic. My first stop was Glanleam Beach, a secluded cove tucked into a subtropical forest—a hidden gem. From there, I drove to Geokaun Mountain & Cliffs, where a small entrance fee allowed us to drive to the island's highest point for panoramic views that took my breath away.
By the time I reached Portmagee, I was ready for a meal. At Fisherman's Bar & Skellig Restaurant, I treated myself to delicious fish and chips. I was lucky enough to visit during an England Euro Cup match and joined the locals in the adjoining pub, squeezing onto a stool to cheer along.
The evening ended with a tranquil walk along the Bray Head Loop, where I took in sweeping Atlantic views. I loved sharing the path with grazing sheep and cows—a charming and quintessentially Irish experience.
Day 4: Killarney National Park and the Southern Coast
Leaving Valentia Island, I drove to Killarney National Park to start the day with breakfast, a scenic bike ride around the lakes, and a leisurely exploration of Killarney House and Gardens. The park's lush landscapes and tranquil paths were the perfect setting to enjoy the crisp morning air and recharge for the day ahead.
From Killarney, I continued toward Inchydoney Beach, making a stop along the way at Gougane Barra. The serene valley, with its iconic tiny chapel, looked like something out of a postcard. However, since it was raining and I hoped to escape the weather, I didn't linger long—just parked, walked around briefly, and moved on.
At Inchydoney Beach, the sun made a valiant effort to peek through the clouds, but the strong, cold winds ultimately shortened my visit to a brief walk along the sandy shoreline.
Next, I headed to Kinsale for dinner. Despite high expectations, the restaurant I chose didn't live up to the hype. But I didn't let that dampen my evening, and I enjoyed walking through the town and taking in the lively marina views.
After returning to my Airbnb in Kilbritain, I ended the day with a peaceful moment on the seawall. With a glass of Kylie Minogue Rosé in hand, I reflected on the day's adventures and enjoyed the serene beauty of the Irish coast as the night fell.
Day 5: Castles and Historic Highlights
The day began with breakfast in Kinsale before heading to Blarney Castle, one of Ireland's most iconic landmarks. It wasn't just about climbing to the top and kissing the Blarney Stone—though that was a highlight! I spent hours exploring the castle's extensive gardens, which felt like stepping into another world. From tranquil waterfalls to mysterious rock formations like the Wishing Steps, every path held something new to discover.
After the gardens, I took some time to browse the shops at the nearby Blarney Woollen Mills, a charming mall filled with Irish crafts, wool goods, and unique souvenirs. It was the perfect spot to pick up gifts and keepsakes before continuing my journey.
Next, I headed to Kilkenny, where I not only visited the majestic Kilkenny Castle but also took a leisurely walk through the cobblestone streets of this medieval town. The vibrant shopfronts and historic charm made it a delightful place to wander. I stopped at a cozy local café for a snack and a much-needed coffee, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
As the day wound down, I made my way to my Airbnb in Shillelagh, a peaceful countryside retreat. After settling in, I tried to find somewhere nearby for dinner, but the options were limited. The closest place I could find was a small restaurant in a town 25 minutes away. The drive was inconvenient, but the simple bar food hit the spot after a long day of exploring.
Day 6: A Rainy Farewell
When I woke up, a stormy night had knocked the power out at the Airbnb. Thankfully, the large windows allowed for packing by morning light. Driving into Dublin's morning traffic was its own adventure, but I eventually returned to the rental car and boarded my flight home.
Slán to Ireland: A Journey to Remember
Ireland is more than a destination; it's an experience that unfolds with every twist and turn of its winding roads. While the driving presented challenges, it also opened doors to a deeper connection with the country's landscapes and culture.
From misty cliffs to vibrant cities, every mile of this road trip added to a tapestry of unforgettable memories. My advice to fellow wanderers? Embrace the challenge and savor every view. Slán go fóill—until we meet again.
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