14 Day Ireland Self-Drive Tour

Day 1 – Dublin to Kilkenny

On the first day of your self-drive tour, collect your rental vehicle in Dublin and begin the scenic drive to Kilkenny, a city rich in history and charm. Begin with a guided tour of Kilkenny Castle, where you’ll discover its fascinating past while exploring the elegant interiors and strolling through the beautifully landscaped gardens.

Next, head to Smithwick’s Brewery for an insightful tour that reveals the craft behind brewing this iconic Irish ale.

In the evening, enjoy some free time to explore Kilkenny at your leisure—wander its cobbled streets, browse local shops, and unwind in one of the city’s lively bars or restaurants.

Day 2 – Kilkenny to Cork

Enjoy the scenic journey from Kilkenny to Cork, starting with an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of royalty, as you visit the Rock of Cashel, the former seat of the Kings of Munster.

Enjoy a guided tour of the castle, with beautiful views of the surrounding Tipperary countryside. From Cashel, make your way to Middleton for a tour of the famous whiskey distillery, the Jameson Distillery. Sample some of the finest Irish whiskey and learn the process and craftsmanship behind the whiskey-making process.

Your evening concludes in the rebel city of Cork, where you can visit notable attractions such as the English Market and enjoy the vibrant food scene.

Day 3 – Cork to Cobh

Set off to the coastal town of Cobh on the 3rd day of your self-drive tour, starting with a guided tour of Cobh Museum to learn about the town’s maritime history. Cobh Heritage Centre is your next destination, where you will learn about Irish emigration through interactive exhibits and personal stories.

Take a boat trip to Spike Island, also known as the “Alcatraz of Ireland.” Walk through the ancient prison of Fort Mitchel and scenic walking trails with views of the Cork Harbour. After arriving back in Cobh, continue your journey into Irish emigration with a visit to the Annie Moore Monument, the first emigrant to be processed at Ellis Island in New York in 1892. After a day filled with history and stunning coastal views, return to your Cork accommodation for a relaxing evening.

Day 4 – Cork to Killarney

Your journey on day 4 blends history, natural beauty, and a touch of traditional charm. Start the journey from Cork to Killarney, with your first stop at the iconic Blarney Castle. Explore the medieval stronghold, climb to the top of the castle, and, if you wish, kiss the world-renowned Blarney Stone.

Drive toward Killarney National Park and visit the stunning Torc Waterfall. Take a short, scenic walk to the waterfall’s base, or climb the Torc Mountain Trail for panoramic countryside views.

Experience one of Killarney’s most traditional activities in the afternoon – a jaunting car ride. Your driver will share fascinating stories and local legends as you travel by horse-drawn carriage through Killarney National Park.

Take it easy in the evening by relaxing in one of Killarney’s local restaurants or traditional Irish pubs.

Day 5 – Killarney to Ring of Kerry

After breakfast, depart your Killarney accommodation for an unforgettable journey along the famous Ring of Kerry, a 179-kilometer circular route showcasing Ireland’s most spectacular landscapes.

Drive through charming villages like Killorglin, Glenbeigh, and Cahersiveen, stopping to admire stunning coastal views, rugged mountains, and pristine beaches. Visit Rossbeigh Strand for a peaceful walk, explore the Kerry Bog Village, and enjoy panoramic vistas from Ladies View and Moll’s Gap.

Optional detours include the Skellig Ring, offering breathtaking views of the Skellig Islands.

Return to Killarney for a relaxing evening and another overnight stay in this vibrant town.

Day 6 – Killarney to Dingle

Depart your Killarney accommodation and embark on a scenic drive to the breathtaking Dingle Peninsula.

Your first stop is Dingle Bay, where you can admire the stunning coastal views or take a boat tour to experience the bay from the water. Next, explore Dingle Town, a charming harbor village known for its artisan shops, galleries, and inviting cafés. In the afternoon, visit a local farm for a Dingle Sheepdog Demonstration, where you’ll watch expertly trained dogs herd sheep across the hills under the farmer’s guidance.

The evening is yours to relax and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Dingle.

Day 7 – Dingle to Slea Head Drive & Dunquin

Your 7th day features an unforgettable journey along the famous Slea Head Drive, one of Ireland’s most scenic coastal routes. This circular drive offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged cliffs, and offshore islands while passing through charming villages and historic sites.

Continue your drive to the picturesque village of Dunquin. Visit the famous Dunquin Pier, known for its steep, winding path leading down to the water—a popular spot for photographers. You can take even a short ferry trip from here to explore the Great Blasket Island during the summer months.

Day 8 – Dingle to Galway

Head north toward County Clare, with the option to shorten your journey by taking the Tarbert Ferry across the Shannon Estuary to Killimer. From there, enjoy a scenic drive through the Clare countryside.

Your first major stop is the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most iconic natural wonders. Rising 214 meters above the Atlantic and stretching 8 kilometers, the cliffs offer spectacular views of the Aran Islands and the rugged coastline. Next, head to the nearby village of Doolin, renowned for its traditional Irish music scene and quaint thatched cottages. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy lunch or a quick coffee while soaking in the village’s charming atmosphere.

Continue your journey to the Caherconnell Stone Fort, an impressive early medieval ring fort that offers insight into ancient Irish settlement life. While there, enjoy a sheepdog demonstration, where skilled border collies, guided by local farmers, expertly herd sheep across the rugged terrain.

After a day filled with stunning scenery and cultural experiences, drive to the vibrant city of Galway, where you can settle into your accommodation and enjoy an evening exploring the bustling streets, local pubs, and live music.

Day 9 – Galway to Connemara

On Day 9, set off on a stunning drive through Connemara with your first stop at the quaint village of Roundstone. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and visit the Roundstone Musical Instruments Craft Shop, where you can admire and purchase traditional bodhrán drums. Nearby is the unofficial capital of Connemara, Clifden., Take some to explore the lively town and its unique boutiques, galleries, and cafes.

Embark on the Killary Fjord Cruise, a relaxing journey along the calm waters of Killary Harbour. Admire the towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and mussel farms dotting the fjord. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including dolphins and seabirds!

After your cruise, continue through Connemara National Park, as you make your way to Kylemore Abbey. Learn of the abbey’s romantic past as you enjoy a guided tour of the historic interiors. Walk through the beautiful Victorian Walled Garden before returning for your final evening in Galway.

Day 10 – Galway to Sligo

Depart Galway on a journey to Sligo, stopping at scenic stops along the way, starting with the town of Westport, located along Clew Bay in Mayo. Walk along the Carrowbeg River, browse the town’s unique shops, and enjoy a coffee at one of the cozy cafés.

The next location is one of Ireland’s most significant pilgrimage sites, the Basilica Shrine of Our Lady of Knock. Spend time at Knock Basilica, the Apparition Chapel, and the Knock Museum, which offers insight into the spiritual and historical significance of the site.

Your final attraction is the 13th-century Sligo Abbey, offering a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s religious and architectural history. Spend some time in the ancient ruins before having free time in the evening to explore Sligo.

Day 11 – Sligo to Derry

Journey from Sligo to Derry, exploring the breathtaking landscapes that inspired W.B. Yeats. Start with a visit to the poet’s final resting place at Drumcliffe Church, nestled beneath the striking Benbulben Mountain.

Continue to the Glencar Waterfall, where the flowing waters and lush greenery create a truly enchanting scene. Along the way to Donegal, enjoy panoramic views of Benbulben, one of Ireland’s most iconic peaks. Conclude your day with a visit to Donegal Castle, once the stronghold of the powerful O’Donnell clan.

Settle into your Derry accommodation and unwind, ready for another exciting day of exploration.

Day 12 – Derry to Belfast

On Day 11, depart your Sligo accommodation with your first stop at the picturesque Dunluce Castle, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Wander through the ruins that were once the stronghold of the MacDonnell clan while enjoying beautiful coastal views. Head to the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site at the Giants Causeway. Walk along the hexagonal basalt columns, formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago, or, as locals will tell you, built by the giant Fionn mac Cumhaill!

Enjoy an exhilarating experience as you walk across the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge above the crashing waves. Try not to look down and instead admit the breathtaking views!

Take the short drive to Ballintoy Harbour or the Iron Islands, as it is known to Game of Thrones fans! Your final stop before Belfast is another Game of Thrones filming location, the Dark Hedges. This was used to film the King’s Road in Game of Thrones and offers an enchanting moment as you walk under the iconic beech trees.

Day 13 – Belfast

After breakfast, depart your Belfast hotel for a day of discovery in Northern Ireland’s vibrant capital. Start at the iconic Titanic Museum, where interactive exhibits recount the story of the ship’s construction and tragic voyage.

Nearby, visit Titanic Distillers at Thompson Dock, located in the historic pump house, to learn about whiskey production and Belfast’s shipbuilding heritage.

Continue to Crumlin Road Gaol for a guided tour of this 19th-century prison, then head to Belfast City Hall, where you can admire the grand architecture of the historic building that has stood there for over 100 years.

End your day at the Peace Wall, a powerful symbol of Belfast’s complex history, before returning to your hotel.

Day 14 – Belfast to Dublin

On the final day of your self-drive tour, begin at the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll explore the ancient passage tombs of Newgrange and Knowth. Next, visit Trim Castle, the largest Norman castle in Ireland. Enjoy a guided tour, learning about its fascinating medieval history, defensive features, and its role as a filming location for Braveheart.

Continue to the Monasterboice Monastic Site, home to ancient ruins, an 11th-century round tower, and the famous Muiredach’s High Cross, one of the finest examples of Celtic stonework in Ireland. Your final stop before Dublin is the Hill of Tara, the ancient seat of the High Kings of Ireland. Wander among the grassy mounds, including the Stone of Destiny, where kings were crowned.

Return to Dublin to drop off your rental car after a day filled with history and breathtaking landscapes. From here, either head to the airport for your flight home or enjoy one last evening soaking up Dublin’s vibrant atmosphere, exploring its lively streets, pubs, and cultural attractions.