Ireland Road Trip Itinerary – A Full Lap in 2 Weeks

Are you planning an Ireland road trip for 2 weeks? 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 the 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 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. Not like some Ireland Itineraries that take you from Point A to Point D, and then back to Point B…….

Historical sites, breathtaking landscapes, Irish hospitality, and pretty much the best of Ireland await you as you embark on an unforgettable adventure discovering Ireland by car if you follow our Ireland itinerary.

And why should you listen to what we have to say? Because we are two Irish people who know Ireland’s best attractions and things to do, like the back of our hand! Not only that, but we have personally visited all of these fantastic places ourselves.

Who would you rather take advice from when visiting Australia, someone from Kenya or someone from Australia? Exactly!

Not up for reading? Then check out the shorter and summarized version of this article – 14 Day Ireland Road Trip – A Complete Circuit Of Ireland.

A Perfect Ireland By Car Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

In this 14-day 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 by car holiday.

If you choose to fly into Dublin Airport or Cork Airport, you can simply pick up the 2 week Ireland itinerary from your arrival destination.

Along the way, you will visit all of the famous Ireland 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!

  • Famous Ireland Landmarks: 101 of The Greatest Attractions - 1-20 Doolin Happy Irish Wanderers Best Day-Trips From Doolin, Ireland: Gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way
  • Famous Ireland Landmarks: 101 of The Greatest Attractions - 41-60 Happy Irish Wanderers
  • 14 day Ireland by car Itinerary by real Irish people - Newgrange - Happy irish Wanderers
  • Famous Ireland Landmarks: 101 of The Greatest Attractions - 41-60 Happy Irish Wanderers

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

Additionally, We must warn you that this 14-day 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 to give you a heads-up on what to expect each day of your Ireland road trip holiday.

Lastly, it’s essential to note that this is a self-driving tour of Ireland, requiring either your own vehicle or a rented car for the duration of your Ireland by car holiday.

Click the following link to learn more about Staying Safe on the Road

A 2-week Ireland By Car Itinerary

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 will need to have… A car!

Want to know the cost of renting a car for your Ireland by car holiday? Simply click the link below to get an estimate of the rental costs for your chosen vehicle, and start planning your self-driving tour with ease!

2-Week Ultimate Ireland By Car Road Trip

This 2-week Ireland road trip of the entire island of Ireland has it all, just wait until you see how much we have packed into this 14-day Ireland itinerary. We are very confident that you will get to tick off loads on your Ireland bucket list!

Let’s find out what a complete 14-day Ireland itinerary entails.

DayHighlightsOvernight
Day 1Arrive at Shannon Airport. Pick up your rental car and head to the Cliffs of Moher. Afterwards explore the nearby Burren, a landscape that looks more like the moon.Doolin
Day 2Explore Galway City.Galway City
Day 3Step back in time at Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery, and marvel at the striking silhouette of Ben Bulben and Gleniff Horseshoe.Sligo Town
Day 4Visit Slieve League. Cross the border into Northern Ireland to explore Derry’s murals and historic sites such as the Derry Walls.Derry
Day 5Cross back into the Republic of Ireland with a visit to the UNESCO site Newgrange, followed by a visit to the Hill of Tara and Trim CastleBelfast
Day 6Start the day with a Black Taxi Mural Tour, followed by a visit to the Irish Republican History Museum. With an afternoon visit to Northern Ireland’s most visited attraction the Titanic Museum.Belfast
Day 7Cross back into the Republic of Ireland with a visit to the UNESCO site Newgrange, followed by a visit to the Hill of Tara and Trim CastleDublin
Dun Quin Pier co kerry Famous Ireland Landmarks: 101 of The Greatest Attractions - 81-101
2-week Ireland itinerary: Dunquin Pier
DayHighlightsOvernight
Day 8Learn about the 1916 rising in Kilmainham Gaol, in the afternoon explore Trinty Colege and the Book of Kells. Before finishing your day in Ireland’s most visited attraction – the Guinness Storehouse.Dublin
Day 9Drive through the stunning Wicklow Mountains and visit iconic sites such as Glendalough and the Rock of Cashel.Fota – County Cork
Day 10Day trip to the nearby gorgeous seaside town of Cobh with attractions such as the Heritage Center and the Titanic trail, followed by an afternoon visit to the Jameson Distillery in Middleton.Fota – County Cork
Day 11Visit the iconic towns of Kinsale and Clonakilty in County Cork.Clonakilty
Day 12Drive the Ring of Kerry and finish in Killarney, with nearby stops at Muckross Abbey and Ross Castle.Killarney
Day 13Save the best until last and drive the Slea Head Drive in the gorgeous Dingle Penisula with stop offs such as Gallarus Oratory, a view of the Blasket islands, ancient beehive stone huts and ring forts, and the famous Dunquin Pier.Dingle
Day 14The last day of your Ireland by car holiday. Head from Dingle to Shannon Airport for your afternoon flight back home!
Are you ready for the perfect Ireland by car holiday?!

2-Weeks Ireland By Car Itinerary in Detail

Now that we have an outline of the Ireland by car itinerary, let’s delve into the specifics of each day, including driving times/distances, and places to stay to ensure a well-planned and enjoyable journey.

Day 1: Arrive at Shannon Airport

Arrive at Shannon Airport, welcome to Ireland, or in Irish, tá fáilte romhat!

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

The Majestic Cliffs of Moher

Located in County Clare, Ireland, The Cliffs of Moher are located in Kate’s home county of Clare and is a must-visit attraction in Ireland. This natural wonder rises dramatically from the Atlantic Ocean, standing at heights of 120 to 214 meters above the waves, and stretches for an impressive 12 kilometers in length. That means there are lots of breathtaking views to take in.

The Cliffs of Moher got their name from the ancient fort of Mothar, which previously stood at the site where O’Brien’s Tower now stands, named after the powerfull O’Brien clan who controlled the area

Allow yourself one to two hours to walk around and take in the many different views the Cliffs of Moher have to offer. Beware that there can be strong winds and not everywhere has a guard rail.

The Burren

Next 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.

Highlights in the Burren are The Poulnabrone Dolmen and Aillwee Cave.

poulnabrone dolmen Doolin clare ireland happy irish wanderers
Ireland 14-day itinerary: Poulnabrone Dolmen

Accommodation

Spend the night in Doolin, offering a perfect stopover location to both rest and start afresh the following day for your Ireland road trip.

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.
  • Explore the Burren.
  • Stay overnight in Doolin.

Day 2: Lahinch to Galway

Day 2 of your Ireland road trip starts with a drive from Lahinch 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 at Irelands’s highest round tower at Kilmacduagh Monastery.

Famous Ireland Landmarks: 101 of The Greatest Attractions - 1-20 Happy Irish Wanderers
Ireland14-day itinerary: Killmacduagh Monastery

Galway

Once you arrive in Galway you will have plenty of time to explore one of our favourite towns in Ireland.

Explore the cobblestone streets and visit sites such as Eyre Square, Galway Cathedral, Spanish Arch, and the lively pubs and restaurants on Quay Street.

Accommodation

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

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

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

Day 3: Galway to Sligo

Next on the Ireland by car Itinerary is Sligo Town. You can check in to your hotel but don’t make it too long as we are about to start the real activity of the day.

Driving from Galway to Sligo covers a distance of 138 kilometers (85 miles) and typically takes around 2 hours, with only one attraction along the way – The Carrowmore Megalithic Cemetery.

14 day perfect Ireland Itinerary, Ben Bulben - Happy Irish Wanderers
Ireland by car: Make sure to visit Ben Bulben

Ben Bulben

Only a short 15-minute drive from Sligo Town lies the gigantic Ben Bulben, once home to ancient Celtic warriors.

Continue your scenic Ireland road trip to Gleniff Horseshoe for some of the best views of beautiful rugged mountains and Irish landscapes.

Other highlights in the Ben Bulben area are: Devils Chimney, Glencar Waterfall, Rosses Point, and Mullaghmor.e

After your scenic drive, return to Sligo town and visit Sligo Abbey.

Accommodation

We highly recommend the Clayton Hotel & Leisure Club Sligo for your overnight stay, where breakfast is included and you can enjoy access to a swimming pool

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

  • Drive two hours to Sligo town.
  • Visit Ben Bulben and Gleniff Horseshoe.
  • Explore and stay overnight in Sligo Town.

Day 4: Sligo to Derry

Day 4 of your Irelandby-carr road trip starts with an optional stop at The Slieve League Cliffs.

14-Day Complete Ireland Itinerary - Created By Irish People - Slieve League Cliffs, Happy Irish Wanderers
Ireland 14-day itinerary: The Slieve League Cliffs

Standing over 600 meters high, the Slieve League Cliffs are some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, surpassing even the famous Cliffs of Moher in height.

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 lengthen your drive by an additional 75 kilometers, resulting in a total journey time of 4 hours, two hours longer than the direct route.

In our opinion, so worth it!

Derry

As you approach Derry, your Ireland road trip will take you across the border into Northern Ireland, where signposts will commonly refer to the city as Londonderry.

Take a photo of the iconic Free Derry Corner (there are many more murals in the area), take a walk along the historic City Walls, learn why Derry is referred to as Londonderry in The Siege Museum, and visit the famous Guildhall Building.

The Greatest Attractions - 1-20 Happy Irish Wanderers
Northern Ireland Attractions: Free Derry

Accommodation

For your overnight in Derry, we choose The Lawrence, for its superb location, complimentary parking, and inclusive breakfast.

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

  • Optional visit to Slieve League Cliffs (This will add an extra 2 hours to your drive, but worth it!)
  • Drive to Derry.
  • Explore Derry’s murals and historic sites.
  • Stay overnight.

Day 5: Derry to Belfast

Day 5 will take us from Derry to Belfast via the world-renowned Causeway Coastal Route. Start your day bright and early for today’s activity on our Ireland road trip.

Follow our recommended route designed to include all must-see Northern Ireland attractions along the way.

This scenic drive will span 210 kilometers (130 miles) and require approximately 4 hours of driving alone. Hence the early start to include all sights.

Starting in Derry: Mussenden Temple, Dunluce Castle, (there will be no time to visit Bushmills Distillery), The Giants Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, The Dark Hedges, The Black Arch and Chaine Memorial Tower in Larne, Carrick Fergus Castle, and rest up in Belfast for the night.

  • Mussenden Temple coastal views Famous Ireland Landmarks: 101 of The Greatest Attractions - 81-101
  • Famous Ireland Landmarks: 101 of The Greatest Attractions - 41-60 Happy Irish Wanderers
  • The Greatest Attractions - 1-20 Happy Irish Wanderers
  • Famous Ireland Landmarks: 101 of The Greatest Attractions - 41-60 Happy Irish Wanderers
  • Famous Ireland Landmarks: 101 of The Greatest Attractions - 61-80 Happy Irish Wanderers
  • Famous Ireland Landmarks: 101 of The Greatest Attractions - 41-60 Happy Irish Wanderers

Accommodation

Stay in The Hilton in Belfast for two nights. Located in a perfect area a short walk from the city center and the Titanic Museum, and it offers parking facilities and complimentary breakfast.

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

  • Drive to Belfast via our Giant’s Causeway Itinerary.
  • Stay in Belfast for two nights.

Day 6: Belfast

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

Take a guided black taxi mural tour in Belfast, exploring the Belfasts’ political tensions. These tours delve into the Troubles, a period of conflict marked by political and sectarian violence from the late 1960s to 1998.

You’ll visit Northern Ireland attractions such as the Belfast Peace Walls and murals depicting political themes, and areas all tied to significant Troubles events.

Whilst in the area we would recommend visiting the The Irish Republican History Museum.

The museum was created by Eileen Hickey, a former political prisoner and IRA commander. There is an array of unbelievable exhibits displayed including a prison cell, all sorts of items made by prisoners, and a very interesting library.

Entry is by donation, and opening hours are from 10.00 – 14.00.

With lots of time in the afternoon, you’ll visit the Titanic Museum at your leisure.

  • happy irish wanderers belfast murals northern ireland
  • Irish Republican Museum Belfast Famous Ireland Landmarks: 101 of The Greatest Attractions - 81-101
  • Famous Ireland Landmarks: 101 of The Greatest Attractions - 61-80 Happy Irish Wanderers

Allow yourself at least 2 hours as it offers lots of fantastic exhibits and experiences.

Other Belfast attractions are St Georges Market, Belfast City Hall, and the Botanic Gardens.

Travel summary for Day 6 of your Ireland by car holiday:

  • Take a Black Taxi Mural Tour.
  • Visit The Irish Republican History Museum.
  • Spend your afternoon in the Titanic Museum.
  • Stay overnight in Belfast.

Day 7: Belfast to Dublin

We are back driving again on Day 7 of your Ireland by car road trip from Belfast to Dublin, reentering the Republic of Ireland with stops at Newgrange, Hill of Tara, and Trim Castle.

Altogether the drive, including stops, covers 215 kilometers (135 miles) and takes around 3 hours of driving time.

Newgrange

Also known as Brú na Bóinne, Newgrange is one of two UNESCO sites in Ireland.

It is believed that Newgrange was constructed over 3200 years ago making it older than the Great Pyramids of Egypt and the most famous megalithic site – Stonehenge.

But what Newgrange is most famous for, is its alignment with the winter solstice, a celestial event that occurs around December 21st every year when a beam of sunlight aligns with the passage tomb’s entrance and illuminates the inner chamber.

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

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 pagan Ireland. So nothing to do with a girl’s name!

It served as the symbolic and spiritual center of the country, 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 without any charge.

Trim Castle

From the Hill of Tara to the town 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. Entree is 5 euro per person and the hoping hours are from 09.30 – 16.30.

Famous Ireland Landmarks: 101 of The Greatest Attractions - 41-60 Happy Irish Wanderers
A less-discovered gem on a perfect 2-week Ireland itinerary is the town of Trim

The journey from Trim Castle to Dublin typically takes less than one hour, where you’ll be staying overnight.

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

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

Day 8: Dublin

Day 8 of the Ireland by car road trip 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.

Temple Bar Dublin Ireland May/April Holidays - Best Destinations in the World Right Now Happy Irish Wanderers
Visit Temple Bar as part of your Ireland itinerary.

Kilmainham Jail

This renowned 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 witness to the historic site where these courageous individuals faced firing squads and learn about the inmates unfortunate to have spent time here.

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!

Again we would advise you to book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.


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.

Don’t forget to take a picture with the iconic statue of Molly Malone!

Travel summary for Day 8 of your Ireland by car holiday:

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

Day 9: 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 and the Rock of Cashel, before continuing onward to Cork, where we’ll be staying for two nights.

We’ll continue to Fota Island Resort for a two-night stay. Situated in an excellent location, Fota Island Resort offers easy access to the planned activities in the surrounding area.

This is another long day of driving of 4 hours and covering a distance of 310 kilometers (195 Miles).

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”.

  • Famous Ireland Landmarks: 101 of The Greatest Attractions - 1-20 Happy Irish Wanderers, Lough Tay
  • Glendalough - happy Irish Wanderers
  • Famous Ireland Landmarks: 101 of The Greatest Attractions - 61-80 Happy Irish Wanderers

Continue the drive 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.

All of the morning’s activities are free of charge.

Rock of Cashel

Continue your Ireland road trip southward towards Cork, making a stop at the renowned Rock of Cashel. This leg of the trip involves a 2-hour drive spanning 160 kilometers (100 miles).

Visiting the Rock of Cashel is another tick on your Ireland bucket list. The Rock of Cashel welcomes visitors from 09:00 to 16:45, offering guided tours for an admission fee of 8 euros per person.

Fota Island Resort

fota resort
Relax in style at Fota Island Resort

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

Fota Island Resort is a luxurious destination with upscale accommodations located close to tomorrow’s activities.

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

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

Day 10: Cork

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 colourfull houses and striking cathedral that dominates the skyline.

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

14 day compete Ireland itinerary by Happy Irish Wanderers - Cobh County Cork
When exploring Ireland by car you must visit Cobh

Cobh

Formerly known as Queenstown, Cobh served as Ireland’s main immigration port. At the Cobh Heritage Center, visitors can learn about the lives of Irish emigrants who sought new lives in North America and beyond.

Cobh was also the last port of call for the Titanic, the Titanic Trail is a guided tour that explains the history between the town and the ill-fated ship.

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, pubs, and street art, and 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:

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

Day 11: 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.

Drombeg Stone Circle in County Cork Ireland with Kevin from Happy Irish Wanderers
Ireland 14-itinerary: Drombeg Stone Circle

Altogether the driving times will be around 2 hours over a distance of 115 kilometers (71 miles)

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, 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.

County Cork 5 Greatest Towns - Happy Irish Wanderers Things to Do in Cork
Ireland itinerary: The best pub in Clonakilty

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

dunmore house
Dunmore House Hotel offers stunning sea views

Situated just a 5-minute drive outside of Clonakilty, Dunmore House Hotel offers rooms with fantastic sea views, along with complimentary breakfast and parking

Travel summary for Day 11 of your Ireland by car holiday:

  • 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: Clonakilty to Killarney


On the twelfth day of our Ireland road trip, we’ll drive the Ring of Kerry starting from Kenmare, with a scenic drive from Clonakilty passing through the towns of Bantry and Glengarriff.

This picturesque route spans just under 100 kilometers (62 miles) and will take approximately one hour and twenty minutes to reach our destination.

14 day complete Ireland itinerary by Happy Irish Wanderers at Muckross Abbey with a 700 year old yew tree
Ireland itinerary: Muckross Abbey

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.

  • Famous Ireland Landmarks: 101 of The Greatest Attractions - 41-60 Happy Irish Wanderers Unique Ireland Getaways
  • happy irish wanderers ross castle kilarney ireland

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

Accommodation

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:

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

Day 13: 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 with highlights on the way such as Ventry, Slea Head, our favorite Dunquin Pier, Coumeenoole Beach, Dunmore Head, and the Gallarus Oratory.

14-Day Ultimate Ireland Road Trip From Shannon Airport - Dunquin pier - happy Irish Wanderers
Discover Ireland by car and visit Dunquin Pier

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

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.

Ireland Bucket List: 101 Greatest Attractions Happy Irish Wanderers
Ireland 14-day itinerary: Have a pint at the historic South Pole Inn

Accommodation

Immerse yourself in the heart of Dingle at An Capall Dubh B&B, offering a delicious breakfast and an excellent location.

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

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

Day 14: Departure

Unfortunately, Day 14 brings an end to our Ireland by car road trip, as we embark on a 2-hour and 15-minute drive from Dingle to Shannon Airport, completing our full lap of Ireland.

Ideally, you should have booked an afternoon flight allowing you plenty of time to reach the airport 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 City Hotel, with stop-offs at Adare Village and Bunratty Castle.


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.

The driving time from Limerick to Shannon Airport typically ranges from 20 to 30 minutes,

Then 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:

  • 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.
  • 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, you will be starting early every day, so 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 or tell us where you went. Please feel free to leave us a message below or contact us through our socials.

Slán go fóil

Happy Irish Wanderers
Full Time Travel Couple
Happy Irish Wanderers
Full Time Travel Couple

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