Ireland Road Trip Itinerary – A Full Lap in 2 Weeks

Last updated on February 21st, 2025 at 09:47 am

Are you planning an Ireland road trip? There is so much to see in Ireland and with limited time, you must be torn between which of Irelands’ must-see attractions you are going to visit. Don’t forget you still have to consider the hidden gems and the best hotels to rest your head.

Well, fear not! Let us guide you through Ireland’s top destinations, give you insider tips, and inform you about the best accommodation, so you will have a stress-free and unforgettable trip to Ireland..

If you are reading this Ireland travel article because you clicked the link on the shorter version, then scroll down to the 2-week Ireland Itinerary in detail.

We have taken all the cities, towns, and best attractions in Ireland that you must visit and packed it all in a 14-day Ireland road trip that brings you around the entire island of Ireland in chronological order. And not like some Ireland itineraries on Google that take you from Point A to Point D, and then back to Point B…….This Ireland itinerary actually makes sense!

Historical sites, breathtaking landscapes, Irish hospitality, and pretty much the best places to see in Ireland await you as you embark on an unforgettable adventure when discovering Ireland by car by following our 2-week Ireland itinerary.

Why should you listen to us? If you were visiting Australia, would you rather take advice from someone from Kenya or an Australian? Exactly, we’re two Irish locals who know Ireland’s top attractions and activities inside and out! Plus, we’ve personally visited every one of these incredible places in Ireland ourselves.

No time for reading the full article? Then check out the shorter and summarized version – 14 Day Ireland Road Trip – A Complete Circuit Of Ireland.

The Perfect Ireland By Car Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

In this 2-week Ireland itinerary, you will be completing a full lap of Ireland, including Northern Ireland, with Shannon Airport serving as the starting and finish point for your Ireland road trip.

Along the way, you will explore Ireland by car and visit Ireland’s most popular attractions such as the stunning Cliffs of Moher, the mysterious Giants Causeway, ancient megalithic sites such as Newgrange, drive the famous Ring of Kerry, and much much more

If you choose to fly into Dublin Airport, Belfast Airport, or Cork Airport, you can simply pick up the 14-day Ireland itinerary from your arrival destination.

We highly recommend that your flight to Ireland arrives in the morning, allowing you to get the most out of your first day.

Additionally, we must warn you that this 2-week Ireland itinerary will be busy and requires early starts most days to allow you to get to the next attraction with plenty of time to explore.

We’ll provide detailed driving times and distances at the bottom of this Ireland travel article to give you a heads-up on what to expect each day for your Ireland road trip.

Finally, please note that this is a self-driving tour of Ireland, requiring either your own vehicle or a rented car for the duration of your stay..

If you are driving in Ireland for the first time it is important to know the traffic rules. For example, Irish people drive on the left side of the road. Staying Safe on the Road goes through everything you need to know for your Ireland road trip.

Please support Happy Irish Wanderers and help us grow by using the provided links. This will earn us a small commission, but won’t cost you anything extra!

As this is a 2-week Ireland itinerary by car, you must have… A car! Click the link to get a free quote for renting a car for your 2-week Ireland itinerary.

Let’s Explore A 2-Week Ireland Road Trip

This 2-week Ireland road trip of the entire island has it all, just wait until you see how much we have packed into this ultimate Ireland itinerary. We are very confident that you will get to tick off loads on your Ireland bucket list!

First, let’s find out in a brief travel planner what the complete circuit of Ireland by car entails.

2-Weeks Ireland By Car Itinerary in Detail

Now that we have an outline of the 2-week Ireland itinerary by car, let’s delve into the specifics of each day, such as the driving times/distances, and the best places to stay in Ireland, all with breakfast and free parking included, ensuring a well-planned and enjoyable journey.

Day 1 of the 2-Week Ireland Itinerary: Arrive at Shannon Airport

Arrive at Shannon Airport in County Clare. Fáilte go hÉireann – Welcome to Ireland!

Before starting your 14-day Ireland road trip, your first task will be to pick up your rental car at Shannon Airport. This will be followed by a scenic 1-hour drive covering 66 kilometers (41 miles) to reach your first stop and one of the most visited attractions in Ireland – The Cliffs of Moher.

The Majestic Cliffs of Moher

Located in County Clare Ireland (Kate’s home county) the Cliffs of Moher are a must-visit attraction in Ireland. The cliffs of this natural wonder rise dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean, standing at heights of 120 to 214 meters above the waves, and stretch for an impressive 12 kilometers in length along the coast of Ireland. That means there are lots of breathtaking views to take in!

Allow yourself up to two hours to walk around and take in the many different views the Cliffs of Moher offer. Beware that there can be strong gusts of wind and guard rails are not present everywhere.

The Burren National Park, County Clare

Next up on your Ireland itinerary is the remarkable lunar-like terrain known as “The Burren“.

This unique landscape offers rugged beauty and unique geological formations, making it a must-see destination. Some of the best attractions in the Burren National Park are The Poulnabrone Dolmen and Aillwee Cave.

Accommodation in Doolin

Spend the night in the nearby and iconic village of Doolin. Visit your first authentic Irish pub and have a pint of Guinness with hearty “pub grub” Irish dinner options like seafood chowder, traditional Irish stew, and many other delightful dishes. Get a good night’s rest to start fresh the following day to continue your epic Ireland road trip, there are a lot of fantastic attractions to come!

Travel summary for Day 1 of your Ireland by car holiday

• Arrive at Shannon Airport, and pick up a rental car.
• Drive 1 hour to the Cliffs of Moher, A must-visit Ireland attraction – 66 kilometers (41 miles) from Shannon Airport.
• Explore the Burren National Park a unique landscape and visit the Poulnabrone Dolmen one of Irelands’ must-visit megalithic sites. Lastly, visit the nearby Aillwee Cave.
• Stay overnight in Doolin.

Day 2 of the 2-Week Ireland Itinerary: Doolin to Galway City

Day 2 of your Ireland road trip starts with a drive from Doolin to Galway, this journey is 75 kilometers (46 miles) and will take one hour and thirty minutes.

Along the way, you will have photo opportunities at the picturesque town of Kinvara and the Dunguaire Castle ruins. Continue your Ireland by car road trip to Galway with one more stop at Irelands’ highest round tower at the Kilmacduagh Monastery, County Galway.

What to do in Galway

Once you arrive in Galway you will have plenty of time to explore one of our favourite cities in Ireland. Explore the cobblestone streets and visit the best sites in Galway such as Eyre Square, Galway Cathedral, Spanish Arch, and popular pubs such as The King’s Head, The Quays Bar, and the Skeffington Arms.

Accommodation in Galway

We suggest The Galmont Hotel & Spa in Galway for your overnight stay due to its excellent location, complimentary Irish breakfast, and access to a swimming pool.

Travel summary for Day 2 of your Ireland by car holiday: Doolin to Galway

• Drive one hour and thirty minutes from Doolin to Galway City.
• Stop-offs include Kinvara, Dunguaire Castle ruins, and Kilmacduagh Monastery.
• Spend the day exploring Galway City.
• Stay overnight in Galway.

Day 3 of the 2-Week Ireland Itinerary: Galway to Sligo

Next up on the entire island of Ireland road trip is Sligo Town. Driving from Galway to Sligo covers 138 kilometers (85 miles) and typically takes around 2 hours, with only one attraction along the way – The Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery.

Once you arrive in Sligo, check in to your hotel but don’t make it too long as we are about to start the real activity of the day.

How to visit Ben Bulben, County Sligo

Just a quick 15-minute drive from Sligo Town, you’ll find the impressive natural landmark of Ben Bulben, Irelands’ version of Table Mountain in South Africa’s Cape Town. Ben Bulben holds a special place in Irish mythology, as it was once said to be the home of the “Fianna,” a group of ancient Celtic warriors led by Fionn Mac Cumhaill.

Ben Bulben is a spectacular sight in Ireland. You can choose to drive around or if you prefer, hike to the top. Either way, both options are amazing. If you’d like to hike to the top of Ben Bulben, then enter “Luke’s Bridge” into Google Maps from where you will start. The hike to the summit of Ben Bulben typically takes about an hour and a half to two hours, depending on your fitness level and how many photos you stop to take along the way!

If you’re not keen on hiking to the top of Ben Bulben, you can continue your scenic Ireland road trip with a lap around this unbelievable natural attraction. First head to Gleniff Horseshoe for stunning views of the rugged mountains and beautiful Irish landscapes. Then type the following attractions into Google Maps and follow the route: Gleniff Horseshoe, Devil’s Chimney, Glencar Waterfall, and Eagles Rock Viewpoint. A complete loop around Ben Bulben will take about two hours.

Ireland Travel Tip – After completing the full lap of Ben Bulben head to Mullaghmore for a stunning viewpoint of Castle Classiebawn, with a backdrop of Ben Bulben. In our opinion, this is the BEST viewpoint of Ben Bulben. Trust us, you won’t want to miss this one!!

After your scenic drive around Ben Bulben, make your way back to Sligo town and the last attraction of the day is a visit to Sligo Abbey, The entrance fee is €5 per person, and the abbey closes at 4:45 PM.

Accommodation in Sligo

We highly recommend the Clayton Hotel & Leisure Club Sligo for your overnight stay, where breakfast is included and you can relax in the hotel’s gorgeous swimming pool.

Travel summary for Day 3 of your Ireland by car holiday: Galway to Sligo

• Drive two hours to Sligo Town from Galway.
• Visit the Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, Ben Bulben Mountain, The viewpoint of Castle Classiebawn, and Sligo Abbey.
• Explore and stay overnight in Sligo Town.

If you don’t fancy driving around Ireland yourself then an incredible alternative is to book an Ireland Tour with Brendan Vacations. Sit back, relax, and experience a uniquely tailored trip that is planned, managed, and personally delivered by a passionate team of Celtic Experts. 

Day 4 of the 2-Week Ireland Itinerary: Sligo to Derry

Start your day bright and early for today’s activities on our Ireland road trip!

Day 4 of your Ireland by-car road trip starts with another fantastic natural attraction of Ireland – The Slieve League Cliffs in County Donegal.

Towering an impressive 600 meters, these cliffs are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe, exceeding the famous Cliffs of Moher that you visited on the first day of your Ireland itinerary.

Keep in mind that driving directly from Sligo to Derry will only take 2 hours to drive 140 kilometers (87 miles). Including Slieve League in your Ireland by car itinerary will add an extra 100 kilometers (60 miles) to your road trip, extending the total journey time to 4 hours, two hours longer than the direct route to Derry. However, In our opinion, visiting Slieve League Cliffs in Donegal is definitely worth it!

Welcome to Northern Ireland

As you approach Derry, your Ireland road trip will take you across the border from the Republic of Ireland into Northern Ireland, where signposts will commonly refer to the city as “Londonderry.” Once you arrive in Northern Ireland and Derry City, you’ll notice the distinct areas that separate Irish nationalists and British loyalists, highlighted by flags, colors, and murals.

Very interesting to see with your own eyes, and yes, Derry is safe to visit!

What to do in Derry

Take a photo of the iconic Free Derry Corner and visit more iconic murals in the Bogside area of Derry. Learn why Derry is also known as “Londonderry” in The Siege Museum. Afterward, walk along the historic City Walls of Derry (one of the oldest city walls in the world) and take a selfie with “The Derry Girls Mural”. Lastly, visit the famous Guildhall Building which is free to visit and offers lots of history about Derry City.

Accommodation in Derry

For your overnight stay in Derry, we recommend the Bishop Gate B&B for its perfect location, complimentary parking, and inclusive traditional full Irish breakfast.

Travel summary for Day 4 of your Ireland by car holiday: Sligo to Derry

• Visit the Slieve League Cliffs in County Donegal.
• Drive to Derry – Welcome to the North of Ireland.
• Explore the famous Derry’s murals such as “Free Derry.”
• Visit the Siege Museum, followed by a walk of the Derry City Walls.
• Stay overnight in Derry.

During the Troubles, a period of sectarian conflict in Northern Ireland from the late 1960s to the late 1990s, the Bogside neighborhood in Derry was a hotbed of resistance against British rule and the Protestant majority government and is a MUST-visit attraction in Derry.

Click below to find out the very affordable price for a walking tour through the Bogside to see Derry’s best attraction. Make sure to include Derry City Walls, the oldest city walls in Europe.

Day 5 of the 2-Week Ireland Itinerary: Derry to Belfast

Day 5 of the 2-Week Ireland Itinerary: Derry to Belfast

On Day 5, you’ll travel from Derry to Belfast, along the famous Causeway Coastal Route, recognized as one of the best road trips in the world! During the journey, you’ll stop to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Giant’s Causeway, and many more fantastic places to visit.

This scenic drive is 210 kilometers (130 miles) and requires approximately 4 hours of driving alone. Begin your day early and follow our suggested itinerary to allow enough time to see all the must-see Northern Ireland attractions along the way.

Starting in Derry, follow this route: Mussenden Temple, Dunluce Castle, (Unfortunately there will be not enough time to visit Bushmills Distillery, but the Jameson Whiskey distillery is included later in this Ireland itinerary), The Giants Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, The Dark Hedges, Glendun Viaduct, The Hidden Village of Galboly, The Black Arch, Chaine Memorial Tower in Larne, and lastly Carrick Fergus Castle. for the night.

*Ireland Travel Tip – After the Dark Hedges, drive to Ballycastle and continue along the Antrim Coast. Google Maps will take you inland and you will miss some of the scenic Causeway Coastal route.

Accommodation in Belfast

There’s plenty to explore in Belfast, and after all that driving, you might feel a bit tired. That’s why you’ll be staying for two nights at The Hilton Hotel in Belfast. Located in a perfect area a short walk from the city center and the Titanic Experience Museum, the Hilton Hotel also provides parking facilities and a complimentary full Irish breakfast.

Travel summary for Day 5 of your Ireland by car holiday: Derry to Belfast

• Drive to Belfast via the Causeway Coastal Route, and visit Northern Ireland’s most popular places you must visit.
• Enjoy a two-night stay at the Hilton Hotel in Belfast.

Day 6 of the 2-Week Ireland Itinerary: Belfast

Day 6 of your Ireland itinerary by car starts with….. a taxi!

Belfast is safe to visit. However, there was a period of conflict marked by political and sectarian violence from the late 1960s to 1998 known as “The Troubles”

What to do In Belfast for one day.

The best way to learn about Belfast’s bloody history during the troubles is by taking a Black Taxi Mural tour. This is without a doubt one of the best attractions in Northern Ireland and a MUST when in Belfast. The guided tour takes you to the best Belfast murals, the Belfast Peace Wall, important historical points, and will make you understand the history of Belfast and the Troubles.

Ask your driver at the start of the Black Taxi Mural tour if he/she can drop you off at The Irish Republican History Museum located near the Belfast Peace Wall and the Irish Nationalist Falls Road at the end of your tour.

The Irish Republican History Museum was created by Eileen Hickey, a former political prisoner and IRA commander. The museum features an array of remarkable exhibits, including a prison cell, items crafted by political prisoners during incarceration, and a fascinating library. Entry is by donation, and opening hours are from 10.00 – 14.00.

This gives you an entire afternoon to explore Belfast, where you can visit the Titanic Experience Museum at your leisure. (Allow at least two hours for the Titanic Experience Museum, as it features many incredible exhibits and experiences)

Travel summary for Day 6 of your Ireland by car holiday: Full day in Belfast

• Take a Black Taxi Mural Tour, one of the main attractions when in Belfast
• Visit The Irish Republican History Museum.
• Spend your afternoon in the Titanic Experience Museum.
• Stay a second night in Belfast.

Book your Belfast Black Taxi Tour NOW to avoid missing out!

Day 7 of the 2-Week Ireland Itinerary: Belfast to Dublin

We are back on the road again on Day 7 of your Ireland by car holiday, driving from Belfast to Dublin, Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit Newgrange, another UNESCO world heritage site in Ireland, as well as the nearby megalithic site Hill of Tara, and Trim Castle which featured in the movie Braveheart starring Mel Gibson.

The entire trip from Belfast to Dublin, including your stops, covers a distance of 215 kilometers (135 miles) and will take approximately 3 hours of driving time.

Newgrange, County Meath

Newgrange is part of the Brú na Bóinne UNESCO World Heritage Site, including two other ancient megalithic monuments of Knowth and Dowth.

It is believed that Newgrange dates back to 3200 BC, making it older than the Great Pyramids of Egypt and the most famous megalithic site in the world – Stonehenge.

But what Newgrange is most famous for is its alignment with the winter solstice. Every year, as the sun rises on December 21st, sunlight illuminates the inner chamber of Newgrange. This highlights the advanced understanding of astronomy that the Celtic people had without any modern tools.

Booking tickets before your visit to Newgrange is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, as tickets are often booked months in advance due to the high demand.

The Hill of Tara, County Meath

The drive from Newgrange to the Hill of Tara will take 30 minutes by car.

According to Irish mythology, Tara was considered the most important political and ceremonial site in ancient Celtic Ireland. The Hill of Tara served as the symbolic and spiritual center of Celtic Ireland, where high kings were inaugurated, laws were enacted, and important religious ceremonies took place.

Visitors can explore the Hill of Tara and its surrounding ancient monuments free of charge.

Trim Castle, County Meath

From the Hill of Tara to the town of Trim is another short drive of only 20 minutes.

Trim Castle is the largest Anglo-Norman castle in Ireland and was featured in the Braveheart movie during the siege scenes of York. Admission to Trim Castle is €5 per person, and the opening hours are from 09:30 to 16:30.

The journey from Trim Castle to Dublin generally takes less than an hour. You’ll be spending two nights in Ireland’s capital, Dublin at the luxurious Mespil Hotel, perfectly located in the city center with free parking and full Irish breakfast included.

Travel summary for Day 7 of your Ireland by car holiday: Belfast to Dublin

• Drive to the UNESCO heritage site Newgrange.
• Explore the Hill of Tara.
• Visit Trim Castle.
• Drive to Dublin and stay for 2 nights.

Day 8 of the 2-Week Ireland Itinerary: Dublin

Day 8 of the Ireland by car holiday starts with you waking up in the capital of Ireland – Dublin.

Due to our tight 14-day Ireland itinerary, we have limited time in Dublin, so we’ve selected the top two activities for you. However, if you do have extra time then find out How to spend two days in Dublin cheaply.

What to do in Dublin – Kilmainham Gaol

This renowned Dublin prison now turned tourist attraction holds a somber place in Irish history, as it was here that British forces executed the leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising.

Today, visitors can stand at the historic site in Kilmainham Gaol where brave figures like James Connolly, Padraig Pearse, and Joseph Plunkett faced firing squads and discover the stories of those unfortunate enough to have been imprisoned here.

What to do in Dublin – The Guinness Storehouse

Ireland’s number one tourist attraction and a big tick of your Ireland bucket list is the Guinness Storehouse. Maybe get a taxi for this one!

Embark on a self-guided tour through seven floors of interactive exhibits, each focusing on a different aspect of Guinness’s history, brewing process, and its importance to Irish culture. Wrap up the tour by sampling delicious pints of Guinness, or two!

Again we would advise you to book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment as the Guinness Storehouse is Irelands’ most visited attraction.

If Kilmainham Gaol or the Guinness Storehouse aren’t appealing to you, you might want to explore other options like visiting Trinity College and the Book of Kells or exploring one of the free-to-visit National Museums of Ireland.

A must-do when in Dublin is to take a photo of the iconic statue of Molly Malone, also known as “the tart with the cart.” The Molly Malone statue is located on Suffolk Street.

Travel summary for Day 8 of your Ireland by car holiday: Full day in Dublin

• Visit Kilmainham Jail.
• Explore the Guinness Storehouse in the afternoon.
• Take a selfie with Molly Malone.
• Stay overnight in Dublin.

Day 9 of the 2-Week Ireland Itinerary: Dublin to Cork

On day 9 of the Ireland by car itinerary, travelers will begin on a scenic drive from Dublin, passing through the picturesque Wicklow Mountains with planned stops at Glendalough Monastery and the Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary, before continuing onward to County Cork.

The best news of the day is that all of these popular attractions in Ireland are free of charge to visit.

In County Cork, you’ll enjoy a two-night stay at the luxurious five-star Fota Island Resort and Spa. Not only does Fota Island Resort offer excellent access to tomorrow’s activities but also serves as a wonderful place to relax after another day of exploring the best attractions in Ireland.

Today involves another lengthy drive of 4 hours, during which you’ll cover a distance of 310 kilometers (195 miles).

Road Trip through the Wicklow Mountains

Departing from Dublin, we head straight up into the nearby Wicklow Mountains. Our first stop is Lough Tay Viewpoint, (via Sally Gap), a stunning spot overlooking the “Guinness Lake.” Continue the road trip through the Wicklow Mountains via The Old Military Road, towards Glenmacnass Waterfall.

Our next stop will be at the historic Glendalough Monastery, renowned for its iconic round tower, ancient church, and picturesque surrounding landscape.

Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary

Continue your Ireland road trip southward towards Cork, making a stop at the renowned Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary. From Glendalough to Cashel involves a 2-hour drive covering 160 kilometers (100 miles).

The Rock of Cashel is open from 09:00 to 16:45, offering guided tours for an admission fee of 8 euros per person.

Fota Island Resort and Spa

From Cashel to Fota Island Resort will take one more hour over a distance of 100 kilometers (62 miles)

Time to relax at the five-star Fota Island Resort and Spa for a very reasonable price!

Travel summary for Day 9 of your Ireland by car holiday: Dublin to Cork

• Tour through the Wicklow Mountains via Lough Tay Viewpoint.
• Visit Glendalough Monastery and the Round Tower.
• Drive to Cork via the Rock of Cashel.
• Stay overnight at Fota Island Resort and Spa.

Day 10 of the 2-Week Ireland Itinerary: Cobh and Midleton

Day 10 of the “Ireland by car” road trip starts with a short 10-minute drive to the picturesque town of Cobh, renowned for its colorful houses and stunning St. Colman’s Cathedral overlooking Cork harbor, the second biggest natural harbor in the world.

In the afternoon you’ll explore the nearby town of Midleton, famous for its Jameson whiskey distillery.

What to do in Cobh

The Cobh Heritage Centre provides an insightful look into the Cobh’s maritime history, in particular Cobh’s connections to emigration and the Titanic.

Furthermore, Cobh was also the last port of call for the Titanic. The Titanic Trail offers a guided walking tour around Cobh that explores the landmarks and stories related to the ill-fated ship’s last port of call when Cobh was called Queenstown

Middleton Distillery Experience

In the afternoon, you’ll explore the nearby town of Middleton, just a 20-minute drive from Cobh.

The highlight of the visit is the Middleton Distillery Experience, where you’ll learn the history and craftsmanship behind one of the world’s most celebrated whiskeys, complete with a tasting session at the end of course!

If touring a distillery isn’t your preference, you can explore Cork City Centre instead.

Wander through the city’s streets, filled with shops, cafes, and pubs. Soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Ireland’s second-largest city and according to the locals – Ireland’s real capital!

There is a daily train service that runs from Fota Island to both Cobh and Cork City.

Travel summary for Day 10 of your Ireland by car holiday: Explore Cobh and Middleton

• Visit Cobh in the morning.
• Tour the Jameson Distillery Experience in Middleton.
• Alternatively, explore Cork City.
• Another overnight at Fota Island Resort and Spa.

Day 11 of the 2-Week Ireland Itinerary: Cobh to Clonakilty

Day 11 of our 2 week Ireland itinerary will call for another early start on the road, as today is packed with a lot more must-see Ireland attractions to check off the Ireland Bucket list.

The first stop on our Ireland itinerary is the charming seaside town of Kinsale and its historic Charles Fort. Following that, we’ll visit Ireland’s best-preserved Stone Circle, before enjoying an entertaining evening in Clonakilty. Altogether the driving times will be around 2 hours over a distance of 115 kilometers (71 miles)

What to do in Kinsale

Our first stop of the day is the historic town of Kinsale, a charming coastal town known for its colorful streets and nearby attractions such as Charles Fort.

This star-shaped fortress, built in the late 17th century, holds great significance in Ireland’s military history.

An option to include on your Ireland road trip is the Old Head of Kinsale, a breathtaking headland offering spectacular coastal scenery, dramatic cliffs, and panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Drombeg Stone Circle

Before settling in Clonakilty for the night, we’ll take a short 15-minute drive to a remarkable and freely accessible attraction.

Drombeg Stone Circle is considered one of Ireland’s finest examples of a stone circle, with origins dating back over 3000 years.

What to do in Clonakilty

For your last evening in County Cork, you’ll be spending the night in Clonakilty.

Clonakilty is another wonderful Irish town renowned for its connection with Michael Collins, the most delicious black pudding in the world, and some of the best pubs with traditional Irish music.

If time permits you can visit historical Ireland attractions such as the Michael Collins ambush site at Béal na Bláth (pronounced Bale na Bla), or the Kilmichael Ambush Site that was led by Tom Barry.

Accommodation In Clonakilty

Situated in the town center of Clonakilty, Emmet Hotel offers gorgeous rooms with traditional Irish breakfast and parking.

Travel summary for Day 11 of your Ireland by car holiday: Explore Kinsale and Clonakilty

• Visit Kinsale, with options to visit Charles Fort or the Old Head of Kinsale.
• Visit Drombeg Stone Circle.
• Explore Clonakilty, and stay overnight.

Day 12 of the 2-Week Ireland Itinerary: Clonakilty to Killarney

On the twelfth day of our Ireland road trip, we’ll enjoy a picturesque drive from Clonakilty to Kenmare, where you will begin the main activity of the day and another one of Irelands’ best road trips – The Ring of Kerry.

From Clonakilty to Kenmare is just under 100 kilometers (62 miles) and will take approximately one hour and twenty minutes to reach.

The Ring of Kerry

We recommend that you drive the Ring of Kerry in a clockwise direction starting from Kenmare and finishing in Killarney.

From Kenmare, explore the following highlights – Sneem, Derryname Beach, Com an Chise Viewpoint, Kerry Cliffs, Cahergal Stone Fort, Dingle Viewpoint, The Gap of Dunloe, Ladies View, Torc Waterfall, Muckross Abbey (not the house), and lastly Ross Castle.

Altogether this part of the Ireland by car itinerary will take 3 to 5 hours over a distance of 180 kilometers (112 miles).

Accommodation in Killarney

The most popular stay in Killarney, known for its affordability, good location, and inclusive breakfast, is without a doubt The Gleneagle Hotel & Apartments.

Travel summary for Day 12 of your Ireland by car holiday: Clonakilty to Killarney

• Drive the Ring of Kerry.
• Stay overnight in Killarney.

Day 13 of the 2-Week Ireland Itinerary: Killarney to Dingle

The last day of exploring Ireland by car brings us to our favorite part of Ireland – The Dingle Peninsula.

From Killarney to Dingle Town will take one hour over a distance of 65 kilometers (40 miles)

Once at Dingle start the Slea Head Drive in a clockwise direction for the best views and to avoid oncoming tourist busses. Highlights on the way are Ventry, Slea Head, one of our favorite places in Ireland Dunquin Pier, Coumeenoole Beach, Dunmore Head, and the Gallarus Oratory.

Driving a complete loop of Sleahead will take three to four hours over a short distance of only 50 kilometers (30 miles)

Conor Pass

As always, we’ve included additional stops for those eager to make the most of their Ireland road trip by car.

If time permits, take a drive from Dingle through Conor Pass, offering spectacular views along small and winding roads.

Once you reach the town of Camp, head back towards Annascaul and make a stop at the South Pole Inn, a pub that was once owned by Tom Crean, a famous Irish explorer who embarked on missions in the Arctic with Sir Ernest Shackleton.

Accommodation in Dingle

Immerse yourself in the heart of Dingle at Dingle Skellig Hotel with a delicious traditional Irish breakfast included.

Travel summary for Day 13 of your Ireland by car holiday: Killarney to Dingle

• Drive the Slea Head Drive.
• Explore Conor Pass.
• Have a pint of Guinness in the South Pole Inn.
• Stay overnight in Dingle.

Day 14 of the 2-Week Ireland Itinerary: Departure

Unfortunately, Day 14 brings an end to our Ireland by car road trip, and it will take a 2-hour and 15-minute drive from Dingle to Shannon Airport, to complete our full lap of Ireland itinerary.

Ideally, you should have booked an evening flight allowing you plenty of time to reach Shannon Airport from Dingle and return the rental car.

If driving to Shannon airport isn’t suitable on Day 14, then the itinerary must be extended by adding another day. In that case, on Day 14, you will travel from Dingle to Limerick City with an overnight stay at Limerick Strand Hotel, with stop-offs at Adare Village and Bunratty Castle.

The driving time from Limerick to Shannon Airport typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes, On Day 15, you will conclude your unforgettable Ireland road trip by returning home.

Travel summary for Day 14 of your Ireland by car holiday: Dingle to Shannon Airport

• Have an evening flight booked.
• Visit Adare Village.
• Explore Bunratty Castle.
• Depart home, or alternatively stay in Limerick and fly home the next day.

To fully explore Ireland, we highly recommend renting a car. Having your own vehicle gives you the flexibility and freedom to travel at your own pace and make spontaneous stops whenever you wish.

Travel summary for Day 14 of your Ireland by car holiday:

• Drive two hours and 30 minutes to Shannon Airport.
• Alternatively, stay in Limerick City, and depart on the 15th day back home.

Enjoy Your Ireland Road Trip!

There you have it, a 2 week Ireland by car itinerary that takes you on a complete journey around the island of Ireland, visiting all the main attractions and cities along the way.

Some final tips for your Ireland Road Trip

• This is a 14-day Ireland Itinerary that requires your own car (or motorbike)
• In the summer, days will be longer, but also busier due to extended daylight hours.
• Your Ireland by car road trip will be busy, but with lots of great attractions to see.
• Start your day early to make the most of your Ireland road trip. Departing early will give you more time to cover long distances and enjoy the journey without feeling rushed.
• Remember, because you are starting early every day to take it easy in those delicious pints of Guinness!
• Verify opening hours to ensure the Ireland attraction is open.
• Enjoy your perfect Ireland road trip of the entire island!

We would love to answer any questions you have about visiting Ireland for the first time, or leave a comment and tell us where you visited.

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