How many days do you need to drive around Ireland?

 To drive around Ireland and see the main highlights, you’ll typically need at least 7 to 10 days. This time frame allows for a balanced pace, giving you enough time to explore the major attractions, scenic drives, and charming towns while also enjoying some flexibility. Here’s a rough breakdown of how you could structure your trip:

7-Day Itinerary:

1. Day 1: Dublin

   • Explore Dublin's major sights, including Trinity College, the Book of Kells, Dublin Castle, and Temple Bar.

2. Day 2: Wicklow and Kilkenny

   • Drive south to visit the scenic Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough.
   • Continue to Kilkenny, exploring Kilkenny Castle and the medieval town.

3. Day 3: Waterford and Cork

   • Head to Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city, and then on to Cork.
   • Visit Blarney Castle (to kiss the Blarney Stone) and explore Cork City.

4. Day 4: Killarney and the Ring of Kerry

   • Explore Killarney National Park.
   • Drive the scenic Ring of Kerry, a famous route with stunning coastal views.

5. Day 5: Dingle Peninsula

   • Explore the Dingle Peninsula, a less crowded but equally beautiful alternative to the Ring of Kerry.
   • Visit the charming town of Dingle and enjoy the coastal scenery.

6. Day 6: Cliffs of Moher and Galway

   • Drive north to see the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland’s most iconic sights.
   • Continue on to Galway, exploring the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene.

7. Day 7: Connemara and Return to Dublin

   • Spend the day exploring the rugged beauty of Connemara National Park.
   • Make your way back to Dublin for your return journey.

10-Day Itinerary (for a more relaxed trip or deeper exploration):

1. Days 1–7: Follow the same plan as the 7-day itinerary but at a slower pace, with more time for activities like hiking, museum visits, and cultural experiences.

2. Day 8: The Burren and Aran Islands

   • Visit the unique landscapes of the Burren.
   • Consider a day trip to the Aran Islands, known for their traditional Irish culture.

3. Day 9: Sligo and Donegal

   • Head up to Sligo and Donegal for more rugged coastal scenery and quiet, off-the-beaten-path towns.

4. Day 10: Northern Ireland (optional)

   • Visit Northern Ireland, including Belfast and the Giant’s Causeway, before returning to Dublin.

Key Considerations:

• Driving Times: Ireland’s small size means driving between cities and attractions is manageable, but rural roads can be narrow and winding, so travel can take longer than expected. Plan for 2 to 3 hours of driving per day.
• Pacing: A 7-day itinerary is fast-paced, ideal for seeing highlights. If you prefer a slower pace with more time in each location, 10 days or more is better.
• Additions: With more time, you could add Northern Ireland, visiting Belfast, the Titanic Museum, and the Giant’s Causeway.

Conclusion:

• 7 days: Sufficient for a whirlwind tour of Ireland’s main attractions.
• 10 days: Allows for a more relaxed pace and deeper exploration, including Northern Ireland or more off-the-beaten-path spots.