What are the Benefits of a Self Drive Tour?
Traveling through a country without speaking to a tour company means you have to do all the planning yourself. You’d need to create a practical itinerary and research the various attractions across Ireland. You then must pay for various tour tickets in a foreign currency and work out the various driving times and travel directions.
With a self-drive tour through Ireland Prestige Tours, all the planning is done for you. We will arrange your car rentals, various accommodations, and tour tickets, so you won’t need to contact anybody yourself. Our self-drive itineraries are designed by local experts who can ensure you see the famous attractions you’ll have heard of and hidden gems off the beaten track. Our local planners can also recommend restaurants and Irish pubs that you may wish to visit and can make reservations on your behalf if needed.
A self-drive tour allows you to go where you want in your private group and enjoy Ireland on your terms. We have created a sample 10-day self-drive self-drive itinerary below, but we can tailor a customized itinerary tailor a customized itinerary for you if you’d like to make some changes.
Interactive Map For Your 10-Day Self-Drive Tour of Ireland
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 Kilkenny
Upon landing in Dublin, collect your rental car and get ready to hit the road! Start driving south towards the medieval city of Kilkenny. Your first stop in Kilkenny is a guided tour of Kilkenny Castle, once the stronghold of the famous Butler family for 600 years. Wander through the castle remodeled in Victorian times, seeing drawing rooms, the Long Gallery, and the grand dining room.
Take the short walk or drive to the nearby Smithwicks Distillery, one of Ireland’s premium ales. Learn all about the ale-making process from the experts, with the opportunity to enjoy some free samples. Your evening is then your own to enjoy Kilkenny’s bars and restaurants before a good night’s sleep in your Kilkenny accommodation.
Day 2: Kilkenny to Cork
Your time in Kilkenny ends as you make your way to the historic Rock of Cashel. Wander through the impressive medieval structures, including the 12th-century round tower, Cormac’s Chapel, and the Gothic Cathedral. With the castle perches on top of the hill, you can enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, including the lush Golden Vale, one of Ireland’s most fertile landscapes.
Drive towards Cork, with a stop at Middleton to visit Jameson Distillery, giving you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Irish whiskey. Take the flagship Jameson Distillery Experience, a guided tour through the historic distillery buildings where you’ll learn about the whiskey-making process.
After finishing your whiskey tour, your final destination is Ireland’s 2nd biggest city, Cork. Spend your evening exploring Ireland’s “rebel city”, with fine cuisine and lively bars at every corner.
Day 3: Cobh Day Trip
The 3rd day of your tour sees you take an exciting day trip to the coastal town of Cobh. Your first stop is a visit to Cobh Museum, where you’ll learn of the town’s history as a transatlantic port, including its connections to the Titanic, Lusitania and Irish emigration. Next is Cobh Heritage Centre, where you will further your knowledge of Irish emigration, witnessing detailed exhibitions about the millions who departed Ireland for new lives abroad. You can also visit the Annie Moore monument. The monument symbolizes the hopes and dreams of countless Irish emigrants, dedicated to Annnie Annie the first immigrant processed at Ellis Island in New York.
In the afternoon, take a break from driving as you take a short ferry to Spike Island. The island is known as “Ireland’s Alcatraz”, and you can visit the notorious prison before enjoying scenic walking trails around the island. After getting the ferry back to Cobh, you can return to Cork for your final night in the lively city.
Day 4: Cork to Killarney
The 4th day of your self-drive tour sees you journey from Cork to Killarney, with some fantastic stops along the way. Start with a trip to the iconic Blarney Castle, where you can climb the ancient stone tower and kiss the legendary Blarney Stone, believed to grant the “gift of eloquence.” From there, head to the stunning Torc Waterfall, and if you’re feeling adventurous, consider hiking the nearby Torc Mountain Trail for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. End your day with a quintessential Irish experience: a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride through the breathtaking landscapes of Killarney National Park. As your horse-drawn carriage comes to an end, enjoy a relaxing evening at your Killarney accommodation.
Day 5: Ring of Kerry Day Trip
Depart your Killarney accommodation for an unforgettable self-drive journey around the Ring of Kerry, one of Ireland’s most scenic routes, with stunning coastal views, charming villages, and historic landmarks.
Head towards Killorglin, known for its famous Puck Fair. Enjoy panoramic views of Dingle Bay as you approach Glenbeigh, a charming village referred to as the “Jewel in the Ring of Kerry”.” Stop at Rossbeigh Strand for a peaceful beach walk before driving through the picturesque villages of Cahersiveen and Waterville, a favorite retreat of Charlie Chaplin.
As you continue along the Skellig Ring, take a detour to Valentia Island and enjoy the stunning views from Geokaun Mountain and Fogher Cliffs. Stop in Sneem for lunch and explore its colorful streets before heading toward Molls Gap, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking mountain vistas. Don’t miss Ladies View for one of the best photo opportunities along the route.
Return to Killarney in the evening, reflecting on a day filled with natural beauty, rich history, and unforgettable moments.
Day 6: Killarney to Dingle
Depart your Killarney accommodation and begin a breathtaking journey to the stunning Dingle Peninsula, one of Ireland’s most scenic coastal routes. Your first stop is the picturesque Dingle Bay where you can enjoy a luxurious boat tour of the bay, offering a unique perspective of the stunning coastline.
From Dingle Bay, your next stop is Dingle Town, where you’ll be welcomed with vibrant, colorful streets lined with artisan shops, cozy cafés, and lively pubs. Stroll through the town and enjoy an ice cream from the famous Murphy’s Ice Cream, made with local ingredients.
Head to a nearby hillside farm in the afternoon for an authentic Dingle Sheepdog Demonstration. Here, you’ll witness an impressive display of traditional Irish farming practices, admiring the incredible skill of highly trained border collies as they expertly herd sheep across the rugged terrain.
Check into your Dingle accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening. Take a sunset stroll along the harbor, enjoy a pint of Guinness in one of the town’s iconic pubs, and enjoy live traditional music as the night falls.
Day 7: Slea Head Drive & Dunquin Day Trip
From your Dingle accommodation, set off on an unforgettable day trip along Slea Head Drive, one of Ireland’s most scenic coastal routes. This route is part of the Wild Atlantic Way, and you can expect stunning views of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming villages. Take a quick stop in Ventry, a quaint village where you can take a peaceful stroll along the beach with views of Dingle Bay. Stop at one of the most iconic spots along the route, the Slea Head Viewpoint, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Blasket Islands.
Continue your drive to Dunquin, where you’ll find the famous Dunquin Pier. This steep, winding path leads down to the water and is one of the most photographed spots in Ireland. Drive to the nearby Blasket Centre, a fascinating museum that tells the story of the Blasket Islanders, who lived a traditional, isolated lifestyle until they were evacuated in 1953. The center features photographs, personal stories, and insights into island life.
Return to Dingle in the late afternoon and enjoy some free time to relax or continue exploring the town. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at one of Dingle’s renowned restaurants, followed by another night of live traditional music in one of its cozy pubs.
Tour Day 8: Dingle to Galway
Your time in Dingle comes to an end as you start an exciting journey north. To save time and enjoy a unique experience, take the Tarbert Ferry across the Shannon Estuary to Killimer, cutting out a longer inland route. The ferry ride takes about 20 minutes and offers lovely estuary views. Disembark in Killimer and drive through the heart of County Clare, known for its natural beauty and charming villages.
Your next stop is one of the most iconic attractions in Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher. Walk along the dramatic cliffs, enjoying breathtaking views of the Atlantic Coast from one of Ireland’s best natural wonders. A short drive from the Cliffs of Moher is the picturesque village of Doolin, where you can sample traditional Irish village life.
Stop at Caherconnell Stone Fort, an impressively preserved early medieval ring fort. Here, you’ll not only explore the historic site but also have a 2nd opportunity to enjoy a sheepdog demonstration, where expert farmers guide skilled border collies.
Continue the scenic 90-minute drive to Galway, where you have a free evening to enjoy the cultural heart of Ireland.
Day 9: Connemara Day Trip
Embark on an unforgettable self-drive journey through the heart of Connemara with your first stop at the charming fishing village of Roundstone. Admire the picturesque colorful cottages, shop for the famous Roundstone bodhráns (traditional Irish drums), and enjoy a peaceful walk along the waterfront. Next, continue to Clifden, often called the “Capital of Connemara.” This lively town is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with its vibrant streets, unique boutiques, and inviting pubs.
From Clifden, head north toward Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord. Here, you can relax on the Killary Fjord Cruise, gliding through dramatic landscapes with hillsides, waterfalls, and the chance to see dolphins and seabirds. After your cruise, continue your journey through the Connemara National Park and admire the landscape of mountains and bogs.
Your next stop is the iconic Kylemore Abbey. Hear the grand love story behind the abbey’s construction, explore the beautifully restored rooms, and stroll through the Victorian Walled Garden. As the day winds down, enjoy a leisurely drive back to Galway, passing more of Connemara’s wild beauty.
Day 10: Galway to Dublin
Your final day of exploration takes you from the vibrant city of Galway back to Dublin, with historic stops along the way. Your first stop is Athlone Castle, a 13th-century fortress that has played a significant role in Ireland’s history. The interactive visitor center brings the castle’s story to life with immersive exhibits detailing battles and sieges. Climb the castle walls for panoramic views of the River Shannon and the town of Athlone.
Just a short stroll from the castle is Sean’s Bar, officially recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest pub in the world, dating back to 900 AD. Step inside this historic pub and enjoy a mid-morning coffee or an early pint. From Athlone, drive 30 minutes to Clonmacnoise, one of Ireland’s most significant early Christian sites. Stroll through the historic grounds and learn more about Clonmacnoise’s role as a center of religion, learning, and craftsmanship during the early medieval period.
Enjoy the scenic drive to Dublin, where you will return your rental car and get ready for your flight home.
