Why Should I Book a Self-Drive Tour?
Planning a trip through Ireland on your own can feel overwhelming. From creating a realistic itinerary and researching attractions to booking tours, managing currency payments, and figuring out driving routes, the logistics can quickly become complicated and time-consuming.
With a self-drive tour from Ireland Self-Drive Tours, we handle every aspect of your journey. We’ll arrange your car rental, accommodations, and tour tickets, eliminating the need for you to juggle multiple bookings. Our itineraries are expertly designed by local tour planners, ensuring you experience both the famous landmarks and hidden treasures that most visitors might not have heard of.
Beyond seamless travel planning, our team can recommend the best restaurants and traditional Irish pubs, even making reservations for you if desired. Enjoy a worry-free adventure, knowing everything has been carefully organized to make your Irish journey unforgettable.
Vehicle Hire Options For This Tour
Our flexible vehicle hire options allows you to choose from econmy vehicles to luxury models.
Choose from a range of high-quality vehicles tailored to your journey, from compact cars to spacious SUVs and people carriers.
$ - Compact
$ - Economy
$$ - Standard
$$$ - Luxury
$$$ - SUV
$$$ - People Carrier
Day 1: Dublin to Galway – Cultural Heart of Ireland
After you land at Dublin Airport, collect your rental car and start the drive towards the West of Ireland.
Your first stop is the impressive Athlone Castle, a 13th-century fortress that has stood watch over the River Shannon for centuries. Explore the interactive visitor center, which brings the castle’s history to life with immersive exhibits, 3D models, and multimedia displays.
Climb the castle battlements for panoramic views of the River Shannon. Just a 1-minute walk from the castle, you can visit Sean’s Bar, officially recognized as the oldest pub in Ireland.
Depart Athlone for Clonmacnoise Monastic Site. Founded in 544 AD by St. Ciarán, you can explore the ruins of ancient churches, round towers, Celtic crosses, and high crosses, all set against the tranquil backdrop of the River Shannon.
Continue west toward Galway, passing through picturesque villages and rolling countryside.
Once you have checked into your accommodation, you can enjoy the evening exploring this charming city. Our tour planner can recommend local restaurants and lively pubs for your consideration.
Day 2: Galway to Connemara – Coastal Cruises & Historic Wonders
On Day 2, you will embark on a day trip to Connemara, one of IrelanIreland’scaptivating regions. Your first stop is the “capital” of Connemara, the vibrant town of Clifden. Take the time to wander through the town, visiting the artisan shops and local galleries. If you want a break from driving, cycle the famous Sky Road, a scenic loop offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. End your stay in Clifden by enjoying the bay views from Clifden Castle.
Continue south along the coast to Roundstone, one of the most picturesque villages in Connemara. Stroll along the charming harbor, lined with colorful boats, and visit the famous Roundstone Music & Craft shops, where you’ll find handcrafted bodhrán.
Head towards Killary Harbor, where you’ll go on a cruise along Ireland’s only fjord, Kilary Fjord. Dramatic mountains surround the fjord, and you may even see some sightings of dolphins!
The final stop of the day is at the iconic Kylemore Abbey. Hear the romantic story of Mitchell Henry building the residence for his wife. Tour the restored abbey rooms and stroll through the Victorian Walled Garden, featuring beautifully manicured flowerbeds, glasshouses, and kitchen gardens. Enjoy coffee and homemade treats at the Kylemore Tea House before you return to Galway to unwind after your second day.
Day 3: Galway to Killarney – Natural Wonders & Scenic Drives
Day 3 takes you from the lively streets of Galway to the heart of Killarney, with unforgettable stops along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Your first stop is at the jaw-dropping Cliffs of Moher, towering above the Atlantic Coast. Enjoy a cliff walk from the top of the cliffs and breathtaking views of the Aran Islands and Galway Bay. Visit the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre, where interactive exhibits tell you about the area’s geology, wildlife, and cultural significance.
Take the short 15-minute drive to Doolin, a charming village known as the home of traditional Irish music. Enjoy a relaxing lunch in Doolin, where you can enjoy fresh seafood or staple Irish dishes. Walk off your full stomachs along Doolin Pier, and walk as the ferries depart for the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher.
From Doolin, enjoy a scenic drive south through the heart of County Clare, passing rolling green hills and traditional Irish countryside. Arrive in Killarney with a free evening to explore the vibrant town. Enjoy dinner in one of Killarney’s pubs, and enjoy traditional Irish music.
Day 4: The Ring of Kerry – Ireland’s Scenic Driving Route
On the fourth day of your self-drive tour, you’ll drive across the Ring of Kerry, widely regarded as Ireland’s most scenic driving route, offering spectacular scenery, rich history, and unforgettable experiences.
Begin your journey through Killorglin, a small town famous for the Puck Fair. Continue to Glenbeigh, where a short detour takes you to Rossbeigh Strand, a pristine sandy beach perfect for a refreshing walk and panoramic views across Dingle Bay.
Next up, drive through the historic town of Cahersiveen, home to the impressive Daniel O’Connell Church, dedicated to one of Ireland’s best political leaders.
Take a detour for an off-the-beaten-path experience by following the Skellig Ring. This driving route offers jaw-dropping views of the Skellig Islands, famously featured in Star Wars: The Last Jedi.
Continue to Waterville, a picturesque seaside village once frequented by Charlie Chaplin, whose statue proudly overlooks the seafront.
As you loop back toward Killarney, drive through the stunning Moll’s Gap, a mountain pass with sweeping views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. Make sure to stop at Ladies View, one of Ireland’s most iconic viewpoints, named after Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting, who were captivated by the scene during a royal visit.
Day 5: Killarney to Kilkenny – A Medieval Adventure
For the penultimate day of your self-drive tour, depart Killarney for the legendary Rock of Cashel, once the seat of the former Kings of Munster. Explore the 12th-century round tower, Cormac’s Chapel, and the impressive Gothic cathedral, all surrounded by ancient stone walls. With the castle perched atop a steep hill, you can enjoy views of the surrounding Tipperary countryside.
Carry on your journey to Kilkenny with your first stop at the magnificent Kilkenny Castle, a Norman fortress overlooking the River Nore. Take a tour of the castle and explore the Victorian drawing room, Long Gallery, and grand dining hall, where the famous Butler family would have once dined. Stroll through the castle gardens and parklands, perfect for a leisurely walk.
After a day of exploration, relax in the evening in the medieval city, walking through cobbled streets on your way to one of Kilkenny’s renowned restaurants or lively pubs.
Day 6: Kilkenny to Dublin – Irish Heritage & Natural Beauty
Depart Kilkenny on the final day of your tour, heading towards the capital city of Dublin.
Drive through the heart of Ireland’s countryside and arrive at the world-famous Irish National Stud, a working thoroughbred horse breeding farm that showcases Ireland’s connection to horse racing. Take a guided tour of the stud farm to learn about the farm’s history, see champion stallions, and discover how world-class racehorses are bred and trained. If you visit during spring or summer, you might see adorable foals (baby horses) playing in the paddocks.
After your tour, walk through the beautifully designed Japanese Gardens, created in 1906. Wander along winding paths, cross charming bridges, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of carefully landscaped greenery and vibrant flowers.
Carry on your journey to Dublin Airport, where you can return your rental vehicle and prepare for your flight home.
