Ireland’s perfect for road trips, with ribboning roads that make it easy to explore. If you’d like to go out for a quick day trip from Dublin or are planning a longer drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, there’s something for everyone. Here's our guide to the best road trips in Ireland to take you to lush fields, rugged coastlines, and cozy villages that are never far off the path.
Ireland’s one of those places that’s great for road trips because you can drive for an hour and feel like you’ve entered a completely different world. This island has a lot of fantastic coastal cliffs, mountain passes, farmland, and forest all within easy reach of each other. Driving lets you set your own pace, stop when something catches your eye, and reach places that big group tours skip. Here we’ve outlined some of our favorite road trips in Ireland, from quick day trips to multi-week drives.
Streets of Dublin, Ireland © massimofusaro/Shutterstock
Best for: Nature lovers and day-trippers from Dublin
Duration: 75 miles loop, 1 day
If you’re starting in Dublin and want to get out into the countryside without driving too far, this loop through the Wicklow Mountains is a great choice. It’s close enough to do in a day, but you still get that sense of being away from it all. The drive takes you through hills covered in heather and past quiet lakes and forests.
One of the main stops is Glendalough, an early medieval monastic site tucked between two lakes. Even if you’re not big on history, it’s a peaceful place to walk around. The drive up to Sally Gap is another highlight—lots of winding roads and wide-open views. You can also swing by Powerscourt Estate to see the gardens and stretch your legs. It’s a low-stress loop that works well for a day out or as a way to start a longer trip.
Getting around Ireland is relatively easy. From Dublin city center, head south on the N11 for the most direct route. If you want something more scenic, take the R761 instead—it goes along the coast through Bray and Greystones before heading inland. Either way, the drive into the mountains takes around an hour, depending on traffic and how often you stop.
The stretch through Sally Gap is beautiful, but it’s also narrow and winding, so take your time—especially in bad weather. If there’s snow or heavy rain, check road conditions ahead of time.
You can head out here any time of year, and each season feels a little different. Summer (June to August) has the longest days and mild temperatures—usually around 59–68°F (15–20°C)—so it’s a good time for walking trails and longer drives.
Spring (April and May) is quieter, and you’ll start to see flowers and more greenery. Autumn (September and October) brings in golden colors, especially around the lakes and forests.
Healy Pass, Cork Kerry, Ireland © Shutterstock
Best for: Off-the-beaten-path explorers seeking authentic Ireland
Duration: 87-mile loop, 1–2 days
The Beara Peninsula is a great pick if you're planning on coastal drives but want to skip the crowds. It’s tucked between Kerry and Cork, and while it’s not as well-known as some other routes, that’s part of the appeal. You still get dramatic Atlantic views, winding mountain roads, and quiet villages—just without all the tour buses. It’s a slower, more local-feeling drive where you’ll see sheep on the roads.
Healy Pass is the standout stretch. It cuts through the Caha Mountains with lots of sharp turns and sweeping views, and it’s worth taking your time here. The rest of the loop is dotted with small fishing towns like Allihies and Eyeries, stone circles in open fields, and even the old copper mines that shaped this area’s past.
You can get to Beara from either Kenmare in Kerry or Glengarriff in Cork. From Cork city, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive west on the N71. If you’re coming from Killarney, head to Kenmare and then follow the R571.
The full loop is around 140 kilometers (87 miles), and while it can be done in a day, most people spread it over two. Roads are generally in good shape, though some parts near the coast get narrow and winding. Just take it slow and watch for farm traffic.
May to September is your best bet, with longer days and mild weather. July and August are usually the warmest months, around 59–64°F (15–18°C), but this area never gets packed like the more touristy spots.
Best for: Inland scenery and water activities
Duration: 75-mile loop, 1–2 days
This route around Lough Derg feels more relaxed than the coastal drives. It winds through the center of the country, touching three counties and giving you a slower-paced view of rural Ireland. The lake itself is long and calm, with tiny islands, lakeside villages, and plenty of space to stretch your legs.
You’ll pass through places like Mountshannon, Terryglass, and Killaloe—small towns where you can wander around, grab lunch, or sit by the water.
It’s a good route if you’re looking for somewhere a bit more peaceful, where you can stop for a walk in the woods or go for a swim. People often spend time kayaking or taking boat trips, especially in summer.
There are a few different ways to reach the lake. From Limerick, it’s about a 30-minute drive to Killaloe via the M7 and R463. From Galway, head east on the M6 and then take the R352 to Portumna—it takes around an hour. From Dublin, it’s about two hours via the M7 to Nenagh, then on to Ballina via the R494.
The loop follows a mix of national and smaller roads. Most are well-maintained, but you’ll come across some tighter sections, especially on the western side. Bigger towns around the lake have fuel stations and places to stop, but things get sparser on the quieter stretches.
Late April through September is a good window if you want to spend time outdoors. Summer temperatures tend to hover around 59–68°F (15–20°C), and this is when you’ll find the most activity on the lake—swimming, boating, and weekend festivals pop up around that time. Spring is nice for walking trails and seeing Ireland wildlife, and autumn brings great colors across the trees and hillsides.
Skellig Islands in Ireland © Shutterstock
Best for: Star Wars fans and dramatic coastal scenery
Duration: 11 miles loop, half-day detour
The Ring of Skellig is a quieter detour off the Ring of Kerry—less traffic, more edge-of-the-world views. It’s an 11 mile (18-kilometer loop) that swings past steep cliffs and looks out toward the Skellig Islands, those sharp rock formations rising from the Atlantic. You might recognize them from Star Wars, but they’ve been significant for a long time thanks to the early Christian monastery out there, now a UNESCO site.
You’ll drive through small fishing villages like Portmagee and Ballinskelligs, where Irish is spoken daily by many. Along the way, you’ll pass ancient stone ruins, empty beaches, and even a local chocolate workshop. It’s a short loop, but there’s a lot to see—and it feels more remote than the main route through Kerry. It's short enough to add to an itinerary if you are traveling to Ireland with kids.
The loop splits off from the Ring of Kerry at Waterville, on the southwestern edge of the Iveragh Peninsula. If you’re coming from Killarney, head south on the N70 and follow the Ring counterclockwise for about 75 kilometers to reach Waterville. From there, just follow the signs to Ballinskelligs and the Skellig Ring.
It’s not a long drive in miles, but the roads are narrow and winding, so it’s best to take it slow. Big vehicles like buses and motorhomes usually avoid this stretch, which helps keep things calm.
Late spring through early fall (May to September) is a good time to go. You’ll get longer days and generally milder weather—highs are usually around 54–64°F (12–18°C). July and August tend to have the clearest skies, which is great for seeing the islands. That’s also when boats run out to the Skelligs, but they fill up fast, so book early.
Burren region in County Clare © Shutterstock
Best for: Geology enthusiasts and wildflower photographers
Duration: 12 miles (20-kilometers) one-way, 1 day
The Burren Coastal Road runs along the edge of a landscape that looks almost otherworldly. This 12 mile (20-kilometer) stretch of the R477, between Ballyvaughan and Doolin, passes through cracked limestone fields and hugs the Atlantic coast. The contrast between the pale rocks and the dark ocean is pretty striking.
You’ll see Neolithic tombs, medieval ruins, and some of Ireland’s best-known cliffs. The drive takes you through small towns where you can catch traditional music in the pubs at night.
You can start from either Ballyvaughan (if you’re coming from Galway) or Doolin (if you’re heading up from the south). From Galway, take the N67 down through Kinvara to Ballyvaughan—about a 45-minute drive. From Shannon Airport, head to Doolin by way of the N85 to Ennistymon, then take the R478 north—just under an hour.
The R477 itself is paved and mostly easy to drive, but there are a few narrow stretches. There are plenty of spots to pull over for views or short walks. The drive is short, but there’s a lot packed in—historic sites, beaches, and walking trails. If you’re visiting in summer, it’s smart to head out early. Places like the Cliffs of Moher can get busy, and parking fills up fast.
May and June are ideal if you’re going for the wildflowers. Despite how rocky the place looks, it blooms with rare plants that don’t usually grow together—some from the Arctic, some from the Mediterranean. Summer (July and August) is generally the driest and warmest time to be along the coast, with temps around 59–66°F (15–19°C).
Sky Road, Ireland © Shutterstock
Best for: Spectacular views in minimal driving time
Duration: 10-mile (17 km) loop, 2–3 hours
Sky Road is a short loop drive just outside Clifden, and it's one of those routes that manages to pack in a lot without taking up your whole day. The road gradually climbs from the town out toward the coast, eventually running along a high ridge that gives you wide views over Clifden Bay, scattered islands, and the Twelve Bens mountains in the distance. At its highest point, it really does feel like you’re up in the sky—hence the name.
You’ll pass a few landmarks along the way, like the ruins of Clifden Castle and some remnants from the site of the first transatlantic radio station. It’s the kind of drive where you’ll want to stop a few times.
Sky Road starts and ends in Clifden, a small market town often considered the center of Connemara. If you’re coming from Galway, it’s an easy 1.5-hour drive west along the N59—about 50 miles (80 kilometers)—with plenty of nice scenery along the way. Once you’re in Clifden, follow signs from the main square along Beach Road. It’s a loop, so you can drive it in either direction, but going clockwise tends to build up to the best views.
The road is paved and in good condition but can get narrow in places. There are pull-offs where you can let oncoming traffic pass, and it’s a good idea to take your time, especially in a larger vehicle or during the summer. While the loop itself takes under an hour to drive, you’ll want to give yourself a couple of hours to stop, explore, and enjoy the area.
You can drive Sky Road any time of year, but the experience changes a lot depending on the weather. Summer brings long evenings and softer light, especially around sunset. May and September are usually good for visibility, and the roads tend to be a bit quieter. Winter can be beautiful in a more dramatic way, with strong winds and shifting skies—but shorter daylight hours mean you’ll need to time it right.
Beara Peninsula, County Cork, Ireland © Shutterstock
Best for: Epic journeys and a full Irish coastal experience
Duration: 1,553 miles (2,500 kilometers) one-way, 2–3 weeks
The Wild Atlantic Way is a long, winding route that runs along Ireland’s west coast—from Donegal in the north to Cork in the south. At around 1,553 miles (2,500 kilometers), it’s not something most people tackle all at once. It’s more like a framework you can use to plan shorter trips, depending on how much time you’ve got and which part of the coast you want to explore.
Each stretch of the route feels different. You’ll pass cliffs, quiet bays, lively towns, small islands, and wide open landscapes. Some areas feel remote, others more settled. Along the way, there are 159 “Discovery Points”—marked places where you can pull over to enjoy a view, take a short walk, or learn something interesting about the area. You won’t get to all of them, but they’re useful for planning stops.
Since the route runs the full length of the west coast, you’ve got lots of options for getting started. If you’re flying in, Dublin is the main international airport, and from there you can drive to either end of the route—Donegal to the north via the N3 (about 3.5 hours) or Cork to the south via the M8 (around 3 hours). Shannon Airport is a more central option and puts you close to the middle of the route.
There are smaller regional airports too, like Knock, Kerry, and Donegal, with flights from the UK and some parts of Europe. You can drive the full length if you’ve got a few weeks, but most people pick a region and spend 3–5 days exploring at a slower pace. See our example 10 days Ireland itinerary as a jumping-off point for planning your trip.
May through September is usually the easiest time to travel. Roads are in good condition, daylight stretches late into the evening, and most places along the route are open and active. July and August are the warmest and busiest months, especially around the big-name spots like the Cliffs of Moher or Dingle.
Kerry Cliffs Ring, Kerry, Ireland © Shutterstock
Best for: First-time visitors seeking classic Irish scenery
Duration: 111 miles (179 km) loop, 1 full day
The Ring of Kerry is one of those classic drives that gives you a bit of everything—coast, countryside, mountains, and small towns—without needing to go too far. It’s a 111-mile (179-kilometer) loop around the Iveragh Peninsula in southwest Ireland, and it’s a great introduction to the landscape here.
The road takes you past wide beaches, high cliffs, green hills, and through valleys dotted with sheep and stone walls. You’ll also come across old stone forts, early Christian ruins, and the remains of villages from the famine years.
Towns like Kenmare, Sneem, and Waterville make easy stopping points along the way.. For big views, pull over at Moll’s Gap and Ladies View—both look out across Killarney National Park and the lakes below.
It gets busy in summer, especially with tour buses, but it’s well set up for visitors and easy to follow. You can drive it in a day, but it’s worth stopping often to take in the views or just stretch your legs. For more advice, see our Ireland travel tips.
Most people start the loop in Killarney, but you can pick it up anywhere along the route. If you’re driving from Dublin, it takes about 3.5 hours via the M7/N22. From Shannon Airport, it’s closer to 2 hours via the N21/N22.
It’s common to drive it counterclockwise—starting in Killarney and heading toward Killorglin—because that’s the direction the tour buses take. It helps avoid awkward encounters on narrower roads.
The full loop takes about 7 to 8 hours with stops. If you’re short on time, focus on the southwest section between Waterville and Kenmare—it’s the most dramatic stretch.
Late spring through early fall (May to September) is generally the best time for daylight and weather. July and August are the busiest, but they also tend to have the driest, clearest days. Expect temperatures between 59–68°F (15–20°C).
For fewer crowds, consider May, June, or September. The weather is usually still decent, but towns and viewpoints are less packed and it’s easier to book places to stay (see our guide to Ireland accommodation for more advice).
Giants Causeway, Northern Ireland © Shutterstock
Best for: Game of Thrones fans and geological wonders
Duration: 121 miles (195 km) one-way, 2–3 days
The Causeway Coastal Route runs along the northeast coast of Northern Ireland, connecting Belfast with Derry-Londonderry. It’s about 120 miles (195 kilometers) end to end, and the whole way is packed with coastal cliffs, small villages, and interesting stops.
The Giant’s Causeway is the highlight for most people—those strange hexagonal stone columns right by the sea. It’s a natural formation, but local legends tell stories of giants walking across the sea to Scotland. Just up the road is the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, a narrow swinging bridge suspended high above the water. There’s also Dunluce Castle, perched right on the edge of the cliffs, and the village of Bushmills, home to one of the oldest distilleries in the world.
The route starts in Belfast, which has two nearby airports: Belfast International and George Best Belfast City Airport. Both are about 30 minutes from the city center. You can also fly into Dublin and drive north in about two hours (and here's where to stay in Dublin before you leave for your Ireland road trip).
Once you’re in Belfast, the route follows the A2 along the coast. It’s clearly signposted with brown tourism signs. While you could technically drive the full route in a day, most people stretch it over 2 or 3 days to have time for stops and short walks.
This route is doable any time of year. Summer (June–August) has the longest days and the mildest weather, with temperatures around 59–66°F (15–19°C). It’s the best time for walking
Thanks to the Gulf Stream, winters aren’t especially harsh, but weather is unpredictable year-round, so it’s always smart to bring a waterproof jacket.
Best for: Geological diversity and uncrowded beaches
Duration: 25 miles (40 km) one-way, half-day
The Copper Coast Drive runs along a lesser-known stretch of Ireland’s southeast coast, between Tramore and Dungarvan in County Waterford. It’s about 25 miles (40 kilometers) long and easy to do in half a day, but there’s enough along the route to stretch it out if you want to take your time.
The name comes from the old copper mines that were active in the 1800s—you’ll still see remnants of that history around, especially near Tankardstown. The coastline itself is pretty varied, with cliffs, sea stacks, sea caves, and sheltered coves. The whole area has been named a UNESCO Global Geopark, which gives you an idea of how geologically rich it is.
It’s a laid-back drive, with stops in small seaside villages like Bunmahon, Boatstrand, and Annestown. These places are good for a walk or a meal, and the beaches tend to be quiet.
If you’re coming from Dublin, it’s about 2.5 hours—take the M9 south to Waterford City, then follow the R675 out to Tramore. From Cork, it’s around 1.5 hours via the N25 to Dungarvan. The drive itself follows the R675 most of the way, with a few turnoffs to reach beaches or viewpoints.
It’s a short drive overall—technically under an hour if you didn’t stop—but you’ll want to plan for at least half a day if you want to explore. The road is generally in good shape, but there are a few narrow sections with tight turns.
The southeast tends to get a bit more sun than other parts of Ireland, so you’ve got decent odds year-round. Summer (June through August) is a good time for swimming or beach stops, with average temperatures between 60–68°F (16–20°C). May is nice too—less crowded, and wildflowers start popping up along the cliffs.
Bru Na Boinne, Ireland © Shutterstock
Best for: Ancient history and archaeological sites
Duration: 50 miles (50 km) figure-eight route, 1–2 days
The Boyne Valley Drive takes you through one of the most historically rich parts of Ireland. It loops through Counties Meath and Louth in a figure-eight shape, and the main draw is the collection of ancient sites that are easy to reach in a short distance.
The route centers around Brú na Bóinne, home to the passage tombs of Newgrange and Knowth. These burial sites are over 5,000 years old and have held up remarkably well. They’re older than the pyramids and Stonehenge, and they’re still accessible today by guided tour.
Beyond that, you’ll pass the Hill of Tara, monastic ruins, Norman castles, and a few stately homes. The drive follows the River Boyne through green farmland and small towns like Slane, Navan, and Kells—where the famous Book of Kells was originally created. Visiting here is one of the best things to do in Ireland.
It’s a short drive from Dublin—about 45 minutes north on the M1 to the Brú na Bóinne Visitor Centre (exit at junction 9). If you’re coming from Belfast, head south on the M1 for about 1.5 hours.
Once you’re on the loop, it’s easy to follow—brown heritage signs are posted throughout. You can technically drive the full route in a day, but if you want to visit Newgrange or Knowth, make sure to book tickets in advance. Entry is timed, and during summer they fill up quickly.
You can visit any time of year, and each season has its own appeal. The most well-known time is the winter solstice, when sunlight enters the tomb at Newgrange in a precise alignment. That experience is rare—spots are given by lottery—but it’s worth knowing about.
Spring and fall (April–May or September–October) tend to be quieter, with mild temps (50–59°F / 10–15°C) and softer light if you’re taking photos. Summer brings longer opening hours, which helps if you want to fit more into one day.
Connemara Ireland © Shutterstock
Best for: Rugged mountain and coastal landscapes
Duration: 93-mile (144 km) loop, 1 full day
The Connemara Coastal Circuit is a full-day loop through one of the most striking parts of western Ireland. Starting and ending in Galway, the route takes you past quiet beaches, mountain ranges, bogland, and small villages where Irish is still spoken every day. You’ll follow winding roads through Clifden, Letterfrack, and Leenane, with plenty of chances to pull over and take in the scenery—Gurteen and Dog’s Bay are known for their pale sand, while the Twelve Bens rise up in the distance with steep, rugged peaks.
Along the way, Kylemore Abbey is worth a stop—it sits on the edge of a lake and feels calm even when it’s busy. Ballynahinch Castle isn’t far either.
Most people start this loop from Galway. If you’re coming from Dublin, it’s about a 2.5-hour drive west on the M4/M6. If you're flying into Shannon, Galway is about 1.5 hours north via the M18.
From Galway, take the N59 west through Oughterard and Maam Cross to Clifden, then follow the coast through Letterfrack and Leenane before heading back to Galway through Maam Cross. It’s around 150 km total. You’ll want to give yourself 8 to 9 hours so you can stop and look around without rushing. If you drive the loop clockwise, you’ll get the inland scenery first and save the coastal stretch for later in the day.
The weather changes quickly here, so it’s good to come prepared no matter when you visit. May to September usually has the mildest conditions, with temps between 54–64°F (12–18°C) and longer daylight hours. July and August are busiest, especially around places like Kylemore Abbey. In spring, you’ll see wildflowers like gorse and rhododendrons in bloom, while October tends to have softer light and early morning fog that can make the landscape look even more dramatic.
Gallarus Oratory on Dingle Peninsula © Shutterstock
Best for: Traditional Irish culture and stunning coastal scenery
Duration: 93-mile (150 km) loop, 1 full day
The Dingle Peninsula Loop packs a lot into a relatively short drive. This 93 mile (150 km) route around Ireland’s western edge takes you past cliffs, beaches, fields marked by old stone walls, and early Christian ruins.
The route follows Slea Head Drive, which sticks close to the coastline and feels remote in places. You’ll pass beehive huts built over a thousand years ago, small stone chapels, and lookout points facing the Blasket Islands, once home to a small but close-knit community. Dingle town is the main hub.
The drive usually starts in Tralee, reached from Dublin via the M7 and N21 in about 4 hours. If you’re coming from Killarney, it’s closer—about 1.5 hours to Dingle on the N86. Kerry Airport is also nearby, with flights from Dublin and a few UK cities. From Dingle, the route follows the R559 around Slea Head, then continues back through the mountains via Connor Pass. Plan for 7 to 8 hours total, especially if you want to get out and explore along the way.
Summer (June to August) is the busiest time, with long days and mild weather (around 59–66°F / 15–19°C), so you’ll have plenty of daylight to see everything. If you’d rather avoid the crowds, May or September can be a nice middle ground—good weather, but a bit quieter.
Best for: Northern Lights spotting and remote wilderness
Duration: 100 miles (160 km) loop, 1 full day
The Inishowen 100 is a coastal loop around Ireland’s northernmost peninsula, running about 100 miles (160 km). It’s a great drive if you’re looking to get into a quieter, wilder part of the country.
The route connects scenic headlands, small beaches, and old historical sites, and it doesn’t see a lot of tourist traffic.
You’ll start in Bridgend and follow the road clockwise. One of the standout spots is Malin Head—windswept and dramatic, and sometimes, if you’re lucky, a place to catch the Northern Lights. Along the way, you’ll pass stone forts, shipwreck sites, and World War II lookout towers. The whole landscape feels a little more rugged and remote compared to the south
The peninsula sits up in northeast Donegal, near the Northern Ireland border. Derry/Londonderry is your easiest access point—it’s just a 10-minute drive from the starting point at Bridgend.
From Dublin, you can get there in about 3.5 hours via the M1/A1/A2. From Belfast, it’s around 1.5 hours west on the A6. See our guide to how many days in Dublin to spend before you leave for your Ireland road trip.
If you’re flying in, City of Derry Airport is close and connects to cities in the UK. The loop itself sticks mostly to the R238 and R242 roads. Give yourself a full day—about 8 to 9 hours—if you want to stop along the way.
The weather up here can shift quickly, but each season has its draw. Summer (June–August) has long days. September can be a good time too, with fewer people around and often decent weather.
If you’re hoping to see the Northern Lights, visit between October and March, during periods of strong solar activity.
Sunrise Over Beaghmore Stone Circles, County Tyrone, Northern Ireland © Shutterstock
Best for: Tranquility seekers and stargazers
Duration: 59 miles (95 km) one-way, 1 day
The Sperrin Mountains Route takes you through one of the more low-key but beautiful parts of Northern Ireland. It’s a quieter kind of landscape—rolling hills, open moorlands, valleys carved by glaciers, and patches of old forest.
This 59-mile (95 km) drive winds through Counties Tyrone and Londonderry. It’s the kind of place where you’re more likely to run into a Bronze Age monument than a tour bus. Traditional farming is still very much part of everyday life here.
You’ll pass by Beaghmore Stone Circles, which are thousands of years old and linked to the movement of the stars, plus a few remnants of 17th-century villages. The route also goes through towns like Plumbridge and Draperstown—good spots to stop for a meal and stretch your legs.
The Sperrins straddle the border of Tyrone and Londonderry. If you’re coming from Belfast, take the M2/A6 to Dungiven—it’s about 1.5 hours. From Dublin, head toward Omagh via the M1/A4, which takes around 3 hours.
The main stretch of the drive runs from Draperstown to Plumbridge on the B47, then links up with the B46 to Gortin. You’ll also find a few smaller roads that lead off to walking trails and scenic stops. If you’re planning to take your time and make a few stops, set aside 6 to 7 hours.
Late spring to early autumn (May–September) tends to be the best stretch if you want to combine the drive with a bit of walking. Daytime temps usually land between 54–64°F (12–18°C), and there’s plenty of daylight. In summer, the hills are covered in blooming heather, and in October, the lower valleys light up with autumn color.
The area is also known for its dark skies. It’s one of the better places in the UK for stargazing, especially in winter when the nights are long. Just keep in mind that snowfall can close some roads between December and February.
From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting Ireland