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 – From Dublin to Kilkenny
Upon landing at Dublin Airport, collect your rental car and get ready for an unforgettable Irish adventure. Your journey begins with a scenic drive toward the medieval city of Kilkenny, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and well-preserved architecture.
Your first stop is the magnificent Kilkenny Castle, once the stronghold of the powerful Butler family. Enjoy an immersive guided tour, where you can stroll through its elegant drawing rooms, the grand dining hall, and the impressive Long Gallery. Wander through the beautifully manicured castle gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll and photo opportunities.
Next, take a short walk or drive to the renowned Smithwick’s Experience, home to one of Ireland’s most famous ales. Step inside the historic brewery and learn about the art of ale-making. Interactive exhibits and expert guides make the experience engaging, and of course, you’ll have the chance to sample a freshly poured Smithwick’s straight from the tap.
As evening falls, choose between a traditional Irish meal in a historic pub or contemporary cuisine in a stylish bistro. Wrap up your day with live music in one of the city’s famous bars before heading to your Kilkenny accommodation.
Day 2 – From Kilkenny to Cork
Set off from your Kilkenny accommodation, heading to the neighboring county, Tipperary, to visit the historic Rock of Cashel. The castle is perched high upon a hill, giving you a perfect view of the surrounding town and countryside. Explore the medieval structure, visiting the 12th-century round tower, Cormac’s Chapel, and the Gothic cathedral.
Before arriving in Cork City, your next stop is a guided tour of the Jameson Distillery in Middleton, a fantastic chance to gain a deeper understanding of Irish whiskey. Learn all about the distilling process from the experts, and you will even have the option to sample the famous whiskey yourself.
After finishing your guided whiskey tour, set off for the final drive of your day, as you head for Cork, the 2nd biggest city in Ireland. Spend your night enjoying Cork’s vibrant food scene and nightlife. Our tour planners can recommend and reserve some well-renowned local restaurants for you.
Day 3 – From Cork to Killarney
The 3rd day of your self-drive tour takes you from Cork to the charming town of Killarney, with unforgettable stops along the way. Start your morning with a visit to the world-famous Blarney Castle, an iconic medieval fortress surrounded by lush gardens. Climb the ancient stone tower and take the opportunity to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone
Continue your journey toward Killarney National Park by stopping at the picturesque Torc Waterfall, one of the park’s most photographed natural wonders. The 20-metre waterfall is surrounded by woodland, giving you an excellent opportunity for a short, scenic walk. If you hike up the Torc Mountain Trail, you can expect beautiful views of the Lakes of Killarney and the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks mountain range.
In the afternoon, experience a quintessential Irish tradition with a jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park. These charming, horse-drawn carriages offer a leisurely way to enjoy the park’s breathtaking landscapes. Your friendly local driver, known as a jarvey, will share stories and history along the way, adding a personal touch to the experience.
As the day winds down, make your way to your Killarney accommodation. Whether you choose to dine at a cozy local pub, enjoy live traditional music, or simply unwind after a day of exploration, you’ll find Killarney’s warm hospitality the perfect end to an incredible day.
Day 4 – From Killarney to The Ring of Kerry or Slea Head Drive
On the 4th day of your self-drive tour, you will have the option of either embarking on the Ring of Kerry or the Slea Head Drive. Thankfully, both options offer incredible driving routes with stunning landscapes throughout, meaning you’re guaranteed a day filled with adventure, history, and breathtaking scenery.
Option 1: The Ring of Kerry – Ireland’s Most Famous Scenic Route
The Ring of Kerry is a circular route around the Iveragh Peninsula and is one of Ireland’s most celebrated scenic drives. Start your journey through Killorglin, known for the famous Puck Fair, Ireland’s oldest festival. Continue to Glenbeigh, where you can take a short detour to Rossbeigh Strand, a long, sandy beach perfect for a refreshing walk and stunning views across Dingle Bay. Pass through the charming town of Cahersiveen, home to the Daniel O’Connell Memorial Church.
For an off-the-beaten-path experience, consider detouring along the Skellig Ring, offering incredible views of the Skellig Islands, which you may recognize as a filming location for Star Wars. Continue to Waterville, a picturesque seaside village loved by Charlie Chaplin, whose statue stands proudly on the seafront.
As you drive towards Killarney, journey through the breathtaking mountain pass of Moll’s Gap, known for its sweeping views of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks. Stop at Ladies View, one of the most famous viewpoints in Ireland, named after Queen Victoria’s ladies-in-waiting.
Option B: Slea Head Drive – Wild Atlantic Beauty on the Dingle Peninsula
For a slightly shorter but equally stunning alternative, choose the Slea Head Drive, a circular route around the tip of the Dingle Peninsula. Slea Head Drive offers spectacular scenery in a more compact loop.
Begin your journey by heading north toward Inch Beach, perfect for a morning walk or coffee with a view. Continue to the vibrant fishing town of Dingle, known for its colorful streets and artisan shops. As you depart Dingle, follow the winding coastal road to Slea Head, where the cliffs meet the wild Atlantic. As you drive, enjoy breathtaking views of the Blasket Islands and Coumeenoole Beach.
Make a quick stop at the iconic Dunquin Pier, famous for its zig-zag path down to the sea. This pier is the departure point for boats to the Blasket Islands. From Dunquin Pier, if you’re comfortable driving with narrow mountain roads, consider returning via the Conor Pass, Ireland’s highest mountain pass, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and lakes.
Day 5 – From Killarney to Galway
On Day 5, you will depart Killarney en route to Galway. After 4 days of driving, you can save some driving time by taking the 20-minute Tarbert Ferry across the Shannon Estuary to Killimer, bypassing the longer inland route. Once you disembark in Killimer, continue through the heart of County Clare, a region celebrated for its beautiful countryside.
The highlight of your journey awaits at the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most iconic natural attractions. Stroll along the cliffside paths, soaking in breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Aran Islands in the distance.
Just a short drive from the cliffs lies the picturesque village of Doolin. Wander through the village, admiring its colorful cottages, traditional Irish pubs, and vibrant folk music.
Next, head to Caherconnell Stone Fort, a remarkably preserved early medieval ring fort in the Burren region. Explore the ancient site, then enjoy a captivating sheepdog demonstration, where skilled border collies follow precise commands from expert farmers.
Finish driving for the day as you arrive in Galway with a free evening to explore the lively city. Rest well in your Galway accommodation, ready for another day of exploration in the stunning west of Ireland.
Day 6 – Galway Day Trip to Connemara
The first stop on your day trip to Connemara is the Killary Fjord Cruise. Experience Ireland’s only fjord, surrounded by dramatic mountains, as you glide along calm waters. If you watch closely, you may even spot dolphins and seals swimming through the fjord! Enjoy panoramic views, learn about the area’s history, and capture stunning photos of one of Ireland’s most scenic regions.
Next is Clifden town, where you can take a break to enjoy its colorful shops and local cafes and pubs. Drive or cycle the Sky Road, a stunning loop offering panoramic views of the Atlantic coastline and surrounding countryside. Head to Roundstone and stroll along the picturesque harbor, known for its traditional Galway Hooker boats. Visit the Roundstone Music & Crafts Shop, where you can see and purchase traditional Irish drums known as bodhráns.
The final attraction of the day is a guided tour of Kylemore Abbey, a neo-Gothic abbey built beside a tranquil lake. Walk through the restored rooms in the abbey before exploring the beautifully restored Victorian Walled Garden and the peaceful woodland trails. Return to your Galway accommodation after a full day in the heart of Connemara.
Day 7 – From Galway to Dublin
The final day of your self-drive tour takes you from the lively streets of Galway back to Dublin. On the journey back, visit Athlone Castle, a striking 13th-century fortress that played a pivotal role in Irish history. Enjoy immersive exhibits detailing epic battles and sieges at the castle’s visitor center.
Just a short walk away is the legendary Sean’s Bar, officially recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest pub in the world, dating back to 900 AD. It’s a great location to tick off your bucket list; enjoy a mid-morning coffee or pint before your journey continues.
Take a 30-minute drive to the remarkable Clonmacnoise, one of Ireland’s most significant early Christian sites. Wander through the historic grounds, home to ancient churches, Celtic crosses, and round towers, while learning about the site’s influential role during the early medieval period.
Finally, enjoy the scenic drive back to Dublin, where you’ll return your rental car and prepare for your journey home, reflecting on the unforgettable memories made along the way.
