10 Day Ireland Road Trip Itinerary (A COMPLETE Guide for First-timers!)
I’ll be honest, Ireland was never really at the top of my bucket list. I had seen pictures of Dublin and the Cliffs of Moher, and although they both looked fun, I thought it would be a bit overrated (spoiler: I was wrong).
And then, I watched (and became obsessed) with Game of Thrones (15 years late, I know.)
Anywhoooo, Ireland was quickly bumped up to the top of my list due to the filming locations throughout Northern Ireland. And after spending 10 days roadtripping through Northern Ireland and Ireland, I am here to admit I was wrong and Ireland should 1000 percent be on the top of your bucket list (rain and all).
So, let’s dive into my exact 10-day Ireland Road Trip Itinerary!
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Table of Contents
TLDR: 10 Day Ireland Road Trip QUICK Overview & Map
This is a MASSIVE and super detailed post, so here’s a quick overview to make sure it looks like your kind of vacation before diving all the way in. It’s jam-packed and you’ll 1000 percent be exhausted, however, it takes you *almost* all the way around Ireland to some of the most beautiful stops!
- Day 0: Overnight Flight
- Day 1: Dublin
- Day 2: Game of Thrones Studio Tour & Belfast
- Day 3: Winterfell & Tolleymore Forest
- Day 4: Causeway Road Trip
- Day 5: Horseback Riding and drive to Connemara National Park
- Day 6: Oyster Tour and Hike
- Day 7: Morning Sauna, Galway (Optional Stop at Cliffs of Moher)
- Day 8: Jaunting Cart Tour through Killarney National Park
- Day 9: Dingle Peninsula
- Day 10: Return to Dublin
When is the Best Time to Visit Ireland
If you’re dreaming of green hills, dramatic coastlines, and cozy pubs, the good news is that Ireland is beautiful year-round. However, you’ll probably encounter at least a little rain no matter when you visit (we had quite a bit in June).
For this itinerary, I recommend visiting between May and September. During these months, you’ll enjoy longer daylight hours, milder temperatures, and better conditions for road tripping. We visited in early June and had daylight until after 10 PM, which made it easy to squeeze in extra stops and spontaneous detours.
Spring (March-May)
- Fewer crowds
- Lower hotel prices
- Lush green landscapes
- Unpredictable weather
Summer (June-August)
- Longest daylight hours
- Warmest temperatures
- Best time for hiking and outdoor activities
- Highest prices and biggest crowds
Fall (September-October)
- Fewer tourists
- Beautiful scenery
- Cooler temperatures
- Great shoulder season option
Winter (November-February)
- Lowest prices
- Cozy pub atmosphere
- Short daylight hours
- More challenging weather for road trips
For first-time visitors following this itinerary, late spring or early fall offers the best balance of weather, crowds, and pricing.
My best advice is to just be prepared for the rain with plenty of waterproof gear and don’t let it wreck your trip. It just adds to the Irish charm! My Vessi boots were truly a lifesaver as my feet wree completely dry all week long (can’t say the same about the rest of my gear).
Where to Stay for this 10-Day Road Trip
Typically, I like to have one or two home bases and then day-trip from there. However, for this Ireland road trip, there was just too much ground to cover, so we ended up switching hotels far more than normal.
Our car worked as our closet (to avoid unpacking every location), and I tried to extend a couple of the stays to be more than one night.
Alsooo, this wasn’t a budget-friendly trip (sorry, I’ve never claimed to be a budget traveler). So, you could definitely save some money by staying in different hotels along the way!
- Day 1: Dublin (Hotel Marlin Dublin)
- Day 2: Near Belfast (Culloden Estate and Spa)
- Day 3 & 4: Along the Causeway Coast (Shorebraes Farm Stay Airbnb)
- Day 5 & 6: Conemmarra National Park (Ballyanaich Castle)
- Day 7, 8, 9: Killarney (Kileen House Hotel)
Know Before You Go
Here are a few things I wish I had known before exploring. If you want my full breakdown, you can check out that post here!
1. Driving in Ireland is…stressful
Okay, I actually didn’t drive. But, it was still stressful as the passenger. You’ll drive on the left side of the road (and right side of the car), and a lot of the roads are VERY narrow. Always factor is a bit more time than your GPS says.
2. Get the smallest rental car possible.
Seriously. That compact car you think is too small? It’s probably perfect for the crazy, small roads. And, you’ll appreciate the great gas mileage for this extensive road trip.
3. Northern Ireland vs. Ireland
One thing that surprises many first-time visitors is that you’ll actually be visiting two different countries during this road trip.
Ireland (Republic of Ireland) is an independent country and uses:
- Euros (€)
- Kilometers
- Kilometers per hour
Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom and uses:
- British Pounds (£)
- Miles
- Miles per hour
There are no border checkpoints, and you can drive seamlessly between the two. The biggest thing to remember is that your speed limits and currency will change once you cross into Northern Ireland.
Important! You do need a separate Visa if traveling to Northern Ireland. It’s simple to do online and will connect to your passport (so no extra paperwork is needed). This was never checked during our visit, however, it’s always better to be prepared
Keep Reading: 10+ Things You Should Know When Planning an Ireland Road Trip
10 Day Ireland Road Trip Guide
This itinerary combines everything that makes Ireland incredible: fun cities, dramatic coastlines, castle ruins, national parks, charming small towns, unforgettable hikes, and yes, a healthy dose of Game of Thrones filming locations.
Whether you’re planning your first trip to Ireland or looking for an itinerary that balances iconic highlights with unique experiences, this route gives you a little bit of everything.
Again, it’s massive and jam-packed with every detail you could possibly need, so grab a Guinness and let’s get started.
Day 0
To fully maximize your limited PTO, start day 0 by taking an overnight flight after work. It’s not ideal for the sleep schedule, but it works. Thankfully, there are many direct flights straight to Dublin. Ours was direct and just under 9 hours from Dallas.
And I slept a total of 2 hours and 41 minutes. Thanks to Oura Ring for the update.
Day 1: Dublin
- Drive Time: 16 km ~30 minutes
- Hotel: The Marlin Hotel
After an overnight flight, you’ll land in Dublin early in the morning, ready to kick off your Ireland adventure. (Hopefully, you are better at sleeping on airplanes than I am…)
After picking up your rental car at the airport (we used Hertz, it was easy but expensive), drive into the city and park near St. Stephen’s Green. Since you’ll be spending most of the day walking, you won’t need the car again until tomorrow.
Note! We typically just use our Capital One Venture X credit card to cover car rental insurance when we are traveling. However, when we were picking it up, the employee informed us that Ireland is an exception. So, this is something to look into before your trip because it cost us a PRETTY PENNY to add insurance.
Stop 1: Explore Trinity College
Your first stop should be Trinity College, Ireland’s oldest university, founded in 1592.
Even if you’re not a history buff, the campus is worth wandering through. The cobblestone pathways, historic buildings, and beautifully maintained courtyards make it one of the most picturesque spots in Dublin.
The main attraction here is the famous Book of Kells, a beautifully illustrated manuscript created by Celtic monks around the year 800. Even if you choose not to purchase tickets to see the exhibit, the grounds themselves are worth exploring.
Take some time to stroll through the campus before continuing into the heart of Dublin.
Stop 2: Walk Through Dublin City Centre
From Trinity College, continue wandering through the city center toward Temple Bar.
One of my favorite things about Dublin is how walkable it is. You’ll pass colorful storefronts, historic churches, lively pubs, and plenty of street performers along the way.
Now, before you ask—yes, Temple Bar is touristy.
But it’s famous for a reason.
The colorful buildings, live music, and buzzing atmosphere make it worth a visit, especially if it’s your first time in Dublin. Grab a beer, take a few photos, and soak in the energy before heading back toward your hotel.
We went around 2 pm, and after scooting by the crowds, we found a couple of available barstools. I would imagine it is extremely busy at night.
Stop 3: Check Into the Marlin Hotel St. Stephen’s Green
By early afternoon, it’s finally time to check into your hotel.
For this itinerary, I recommend the Marlin Hotel St. Stephen’s Green (or somewhere downtown within walking distance since you’ll probably be too exhausted to drive anywhere else.)
The location is hard to beat. You’ll be within walking distance of many of Dublin’s top attractions, restaurants, and pubs, making it a convenient home base for your first night in Ireland.
After checking in, freshen up, relax for a bit (BUT FIGHT THE SLEEP), and prepare for one of Dublin’s most iconic experiences.
Stop 4: Guinness Storehouse Tour
No first trip to Dublin would feel complete without visiting the Guinness Storehouse. Yes, even if you are not a Guiness fan (…me).
The self-guided experience takes you through seven floors dedicated to the history, brewing process, advertising, and cultural impact of Ireland’s most famous beer.
Even if you’re not a huge beer drinker, the experience is surprisingly interesting and interactive.
The highlight for me was at the very top, the Gravity Bar. Here you’ll enjoy panoramic views across Dublin while sipping a perfectly poured pint of Guinness. Unfortunately, all I could handle was one sip. Give me all the whiskey and gin, I just can’t do beer.
Plan to spend about two to three hours exploring the museum and enjoying the views.
Tip! Before your visit, be sure to check out this Dublin City Pass to see if it can save you any money on the city’s top attractions. The Guinness Storehouse is included here.
Stop 5: End the Day at Brazen Head
After your Guinness tour, make your way to The Brazen Head for dinner or just a drink.
Dating back to 1198, it’s widely considered Ireland’s oldest pub and feels exactly like the kind of place you’d hope to find in Dublin.
Inside, you’ll find live traditional music, historic stone walls, cozy corners, and plenty of character.
Order a pint, enjoy some classic Irish comfort food, and celebrate the first day of your Ireland road trip.
By this point, the jet lag will likely be catching up to you (we were a bit delusional at this point), making it the perfect time to head back to your hotel and get some rest before tomorrow’s adventure.
Other Things to Do in Dublin
If you have extra time or want to swap out some activities, here are a few additional Dublin highlights worth considering:
- Kilmainham Gaol: One of the most important historic sites in Ireland, offering insight into Ireland’s fight for independence.
- Dublin Castle: A fascinating mix of medieval and modern history located in the heart of the city.
- EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum: An interactive museum that tells the story of Irish people around the world.
- St. Patrick’s Cathedral: Ireland’s largest cathedral and one of Dublin’s most recognizable landmarks.
- Phoenix Park: One of Europe’s largest urban parks and home to a herd of wild deer.
- Jameson Distillery Bow St.: A fun alternative to the Guinness Storehouse for whiskey lovers.
- Take a Literary Pub Crawl: Dublin’s literary history runs deep, and this unique tour combines storytelling, history, and pub culture into one unforgettable experience.
Tip! Before your visit, be sure to check out this Dublin City Pass to see if it can save you any money on the city’s top attractions.
Day 2: Game of Thrones Studio and Belfast
- Drive Time: 222 km ~ 2 hours 45 minutes
- Hotel: Culloden Estate and Spa
As I mentioned earlier, Game of Thrones is ultimately what pushed Ireland to the top of my bucket list, so naturally, I had to dedicate part of this trip to exploring the incredible filming locations and behind-the-scenes experiences that brought Westeros to life.
So, we spent the next 3.5 days exploring all the filming spots in Northern Ireland.
After breakfast, check out of your Dublin hotel and begin the drive north into Northern Ireland.
Stop 1: Game of Thrones Studio Tour
Located in Banbridge, the Game of Thrones Studio Tour is one of the most immersive TV and movie experiences I’ve ever visited.
Unlike a typical museum, this attraction takes you directly behind the scenes of the show, showcasing the actual sets, costumes, props, weapons, visual effects, and production secrets used throughout all eight seasons.
You’ll walk through recreated sets including Winterfell, Dragonstone, King’s Landing, The Wall, and Castle Black.
One of my favorite parts was seeing how much detail went into every costume. From the embroidery on Sansa’s gowns to the armor worn by the Night’s Watch, the craftsmanship is incredible when viewed up close.
Even if you’re not the world’s biggest Game of Thrones fan, it’s fascinating to see the sheer scale of production that went into creating the series (and then you’ll definitely have to re-watch the series).
They also have a restaurant where you can grab lunch and a themed drink (milk of the poppy, anyone?), or schedule an afternoon tea in advance!
Plan to spend about 3–4 hours here.
Want all the details about visiting the Game of Thrones Studio? Check out my full post here!
Stop 2: Afternoon Tea at Culloden Estate
After spending the morning in Westeros, it’s time to trade swords and dragons for a day at the Highgarden (sorry, another Game of Thrones reference).
Make your way to the beautiful Culloden Estate for afternoon tea (your hotel for tonight).
I knew if I was going to visit Ireland, I wanted to go big and stay in a few castles.
Our afternoon tea was included in our booking (book with me and you can get these same VIP perks!) and included finger sandwiches, assorted pastries and desserts, and the best tea of the trip (we drank a lot).
You can pretend you’re a member of House Tyrell here!
Stop 3: Explore Belfast (Game of Thrones Stained Glass Trail)
After tea, exploring the grounds a bit, and getting situated in your room, head into Belfast.
The city has a vibrant energy, beautiful architecture, excellent food, and enough history to easily fill several days.
For Game of Thrones fans, your first stop should be the famous stained-glass windows along the waterfront. You can park at the Corporation Square Car Park, and then you’ll find your first stained glass window right in front of the AC Hotel.
Located near the Titanic Quarter, these stained-glass installations were created to celebrate Northern Ireland’s role in bringing Game of Thrones to life.
Each window depicts major characters, houses, and pivotal moments from the series.
Even better, the windows are arranged by house, allowing fans to relive the story as they walk along the waterfront. We thought it sounded a bit cheesy at first, but it turned out to be a fun way to spend an hour!
It’s a fun, free attraction and the perfect way to continue the Game of Thrones theme before tomorrow’s filming location adventures.
Finish the evening with dinner along the river. We ate at Novelli at the City Quays.
After dinner, head back to your hotel and get some rest.
Day 3: Winterfell, Inch Abbey, & Tollymore Forest
- Drive Time: 130 miles ~3 hours 20 minutes
- Hotel: Shorebraes Farm Stay
When researching for this trip, I couldn’t find a lot of information about visiting Winterfell (I’m a big review/blog reader). However, I decided to go for it anyway! It wasn’t quite what I expected, but it was a super unique way to learn more about filming.
Stop 1: Winterfell (Bike Tour and Archery Lesson)
Start your morning at Castle Ward, the filming location used for Winterfell in Season 1 of Game of Thrones.
While you can certainly visit the grounds on your own, I highly recommend booking the Winterfell cycle and archery experience.
This guided tour combines biking, storytelling, and hands-on activities to bring the filming location to life. Our guide was an extra in the show and shared so many fun stories about filming.
After a tour of the ground (with pictures from filming), the guide will give you a map, bikes, and a backpack complete with cloaks and swords. You’ll cycle along the path where you’ll find numbered shields that point out filming locations.
You’ll recognize locations from Winterfell’s courtyard scenes, Robb Stark’s military camp, and the tree where Robb Stark and Talia were married.
The experience also includes an archery lesson, giving you the chance to channel your inner Arya Stark.
I’ll be honest, my archery skills would not have earned me a spot among the Stark children, but it was still super fun to try!
Even if you’ve never picked up a bow before, the instructor makes it approachable and entertaining. I did get pretty close to a bullseye.
Beyond the Game of Thrones connection, Castle Ward itself is stunning. Rolling green hills, waterfront views, and historic buildings make it worth visiting even if you’ve never watched a single episode.
Plan on spending about 3.5 hours here.
Stop 2: Inch Abbey
Just a short drive away is Inch Abbey, another important filming location from the series. These ruins date back to the 12th century and sit quietly along the River Quoile.
Game of Thrones fans will immediately recognize this location as the place where Robb Stark was proclaimed King in the North.
You know the scene. The one where everyone starts chanting: “The King in the North!” Standing among the ruins, it’s surprisingly easy to picture the scene unfolding around you.
The site is relatively small and just a short walk from the parking lot, so you only need about 30 minutes here.
Stop 3: Tollymore Forest (River Loop Hike)
Finish the day at Tollymore Forest Park, one of the most beautiful places we visited during the entire trip.
The park served as the backdrop for several Game of Thrones scenes and was actually the first filming location used in the series where the Starks first found their direwolf pups.
Even if you’ve never seen Game of Thrones, Tollymore is absolutely worth visiting. We hiked the 3.6-mile River Loop Trail and passed so many colorful flowers, moss-covered bridges, and rushing rivers.
Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours to complete the loop and take plenty of photos along the way.
Day 4: Causeway Coast Road Trip
- Drive time: 90 miles ( ~ 2 hours 50 minutes)
- Hotel: Shorebraes Farm Stay
If you’ve seen photos of Northern Ireland that made you want to book a flight immediately, there’s a good chance they were taken somewhere along today’s route.
The Causeway Coast is easily one of the most scenic drives in Europe (and I loooove a good scenic road trip). Dramatic cliffs, castle ruins, hidden harbors, and world-famous natural wonders seem to appear around every corner.
Today is packed, but every stop is worth it.
Stop 1: The Dark Hedges
Begin your morning at one of Northern Ireland’s most photographed locations.
Planted in the 1700s, this tunnel of twisted beech trees creates an eerie and beautiful scene that feels straight out of a fantasy novel (or fantasy TV series…)
Game of Thrones fans will recognize it as the Kingsroad, where Arya Stark escaped King’s Landing disguised as a boy.
The road itself is relatively short, making this a quick stop (about 1 hour).
Stop 2: Dunluce Castle
Next, make your way to the dramatic ruins of Dunluce Castle.
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this is one of the most spectacular castle locations in all of Ireland. The castle dates back to the 1500s and seems to cling impossibly to the edge of the cliffs.
It’s worth it to pay the small fee (under $10 pp) to explore inside the castle. You’ll see defensive towers, courtyards, ocean viewpoints, and can check out the historic exhibits.
Game of Thrones fans may recognize Dunluce as part of the inspiration behind House Greyjoy’s seat of power, Pyke.
Bonus! If you have the time, you could stop at the Wishing Arch (right before the castle stop) for epic overlook views of the coastline and the castle in the distance! I mean, look at those views!
Stop 3: Giant’s Causeway
No Causeway Coast road trip would be complete without visiting Northern Ireland’s most famous (and definitely the busiest stop of the day) natural attraction. This isn’t a Game of Thrones stop, but still one that deserves a stop.
The Giant’s Causeway is made up of approximately 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity.
Of course, local legend tells a much better story. According to Irish folklore, the giant Finn McCool built the causeway to cross the sea and battle a Scottish giant.
Whichever explanation you choose to believe, the result is incredible.
Parking and Hiking Logistics:
In order to park at the visitor center, you need to purchase your tickets in advance. We did not, but we were able to park in the hotel lot for 10 pounds (+ they gave us 10 pounds to use in their restaurant). From the parking lot, we made our way to the Red Trail (2 miles rt) for the most scenic views.
There is also a shuttle bus that can take you to the beach for €1.20 each way (runs every 10 to 15 minutes). However, if you are able to hike, it’s definitely worth it.
After the hike, we finished in the hotel restaurant with a drink and some of the best fried squid I’ve ever had.
Stop 4: Dunseverick Castle
Just a short drive away sits the lesser-known ruins of Dunseverick Castle. While only a small portion of the castle remains today, the location itself is spectacular.
The ruins sit atop rugged sea cliffs overlooking crashing waves and endless ocean views.
Many visitors skip this stop entirely, which means you’ll often have the place nearly to yourself. It’s a great opportunity to experience the quieter side of the Causeway Coast.
Stop 5: Ballintoy Harbour
If there’s one stop that completely exceeded my expectations, it was Ballintoy Harbour. We were running out of time at this point, but I know I could have explored for much longer.
This small fishing harbor combines rugged coastal scenery with another famous Game of Thrones filming location. Fans will recognize it as Lordsport Harbour in the Iron Islands, where Theon Greyjoy returned home after years away.
The harbor itself is beautiful, with rocky outcroppings, turquoise water, fishing boats, and dramatic cliffs and caves surrounding the shoreline.
It would be a really good place for a picnic!
Stop 6: Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
One of the most famous attractions along the Causeway Coast is Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
Originally used by salmon fishermen, the bridge stretches nearly 100 feet across a rocky chasm connecting the mainland to a small island. Even if you choose not to cross the bridge itself, the coastal walking trails here are worth a visit.
Unfortunately, when we visited, they had the parking lot closed off, so we were unable to enter. I’m not sure if it was due to being full or high winds. Buuuuut the pictures look SO COOL so I still had to add it to this day trip.
If you want to cross the bridge, you will have to pre-order your tickets for a specific entry time.
Stop 7: Fair Head
For one of the most dramatic viewpoints in Northern Ireland, head to Fair Head. This stop almost was a dud for us (we couldn’t find the trailhead), buuuut it turned out to be one of my favorite hikes/views of the trip.
Towering more than 600 feet above the sea, Fair Head offers breathtaking views across the North Channel toward Scotland. It served as the lands of Dragonstone in season 7 and was where Jon Snow first came face-to-face with the dragon.
Unlike some of the more famous stops along the Causeway Coast, Fair Head remains relatively uncrowded. The combination of rugged cliffs, open green fields, and endless ocean views makes this feel like one of Northern Ireland’s hidden gems. We were also the only ones on the trail.
There are several trails to choose from that range from 2 to 4 miles. Bring cash as the parking lot is privately owned and an honor system of £3.
Tip! We were confused at the beginning when we walked to the end of the gravel road and saw a private property sign. However, the trail was right next to this…see picture below.
Stop 8: Carnlough Harbour
Finish your Causeway Coast adventure in the charming village of Carnlough.
This picturesque harbor became famous among Game of Thrones fans after appearing in Season 6 during Arya Stark’s storyline (the famous Bravoos stairs). Today, it’s a peaceful fishing village with colorful buildings, a small harbor, and plenty of local charm.
Grab dinner, stroll along the waterfront, and take one last look at the coastline you’ve spent the day exploring.
Day 5: Horseback Riding and Drive to Ballynaich Castle
- Driving Time: 258 miles (~6 hours)
- Hotel: Ballyanaich Castle
Today is one of your longest driving days and a bit of a transition day to head back south (with a bonus horseback ride in N. Ireland before leaving).
Stop 1: Horseback Riding with Sheans Horse Farm
Start your morning at Sheans Horse Farm, located near the scenic Glens of Antrim.
Even if you have limited horseback riding experience, don’t worry. The staff does an excellent job matching riders with appropriate horses and making everyone feel comfortable before heading out.
Instead of riding through a fenced arena, you’ll venture into the countryside and hills surrounding the farm, with sweeping views across Northern Ireland’s rugged landscapes.
As someone who enjoys hiking, I loved seeing the landscape from a completely different perspective. There was something incredibly peaceful about slowly making your way through the countryside while taking in views that seemed to stretch forever.
Then, to really put the cherry on top, your horses will drop you off at the top of the hill to have an afternoon tea overlooking the countryside. It was complete with finger sandwiches, assorted pastries, and of course, tea.
Stop 2: Drive to Ballynahinch Castle
After tea, begin the drive west toward one of the most memorable accommodations of the entire trip…Ballynahinch Castle.
Located in the heart of Connemara, this luxury castle hotel sits on a private estate surrounded by forests, mountains, rivers, and some of Ireland’s most spectacular scenery.
As you make your way across the country, you’ll start noticing the landscape changing dramatically. The polished cities and coastal villages of eastern Ireland slowly give way to rugged mountains, open countryside, and the wild beauty that makes Connemara so famous.
By the time you arrive at Ballynahinch Castle, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a completely different side of Ireland.
Stop 3: Evening at Ballynahinch Castle
After a long, but beautiful drive, you’ll arrive at Ballynahinch Castle. I genuinely can’t imagine a better place to spend the next few nights.
Despite the name, Ballynahinch Castle feels less like a museum and more like a luxurious country estate where you just happen to be living your best aristocratic life for a few days (a girl can dream, right?)
Spend the evening exploring the grounds, walking along the river, or simply relaxing with a drink in the Fisherman’s pub while taking in the vibes.
If your budget allows for a splurge during this itinerary, I would strongly consider making it here. After several busy days on the road, Ballynahinch Castle provides the perfect mix of comfort, scenery, and Irish hospitality before continuing your adventure through Connemara tomorrow.
Day 6: Oyster Farm and Hiking in Connemara National Park
- Drive time: 66 km (~ 1 hour 20 minutes)
- Hotel: Ballyanaich Castle
Stop 1: DK Oysters Farm Tour
Start your morning with a visit to DK Oysters, located along the shores of Ballinakill Bay.
This family-run oyster farm offers visitors a behind-the-scenes look at one of Ireland’s most famous seafood industries.
It was a unique and super interesting experience. The guide explained how oyster farming works, explained different methods that work with the local ecosystem, and then gave us a chance to shuck and taste the freshest oysters.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply curious to try something new, the tour offers a fun and memorable way to experience a major part of Connemara’s culture and economy.
Plan to spend about two hours at the farm.
Stop 2: Upper Diamond Hill Hike
After your oyster tour, head to nearby Connemara National Park for one of the top hikes in Ireland.
The upper Diamond Hill trail is a moderate 4.2-mile trek that is listed as moderate and climbs just under 1300 feet. We started hiking with sunny skies and ended with zero visibility and sleet. So, just be prepared (I was not).
We did wait a bit at the top (hiding behind a rock from the wind), to catch a few glimpses of the view when the fog blew over.
Anywhoooo, it was the windiest hike of my life, and I thought it could have blown us off the mountain (slight exaggeration, but you get the point). All part of the Irish experience though 🙂
If you aren’t up for the full hike, you could always do the easier Lower Diamond loop, which is just under 2 miles.
Stop 3: Clifden Castle
After hiking Diamond Hill, be sure to make the short drive to Clifden Castle, one of Connemara’s hidden gems. We almost skipped this stop because we were so wet and cold, but I am SO GLAD we didn’t.
Built in 1818 by local landlord John D’Arcy, the founder of Clifden, the castle was once the centerpiece of a large estate before falling into ruin in the late 1800s.
Today, visitors can park at a small roadside pull-off and follow a relatively flat walking trail of about 15–20 minutes each way through farmland and along the coast to reach the castle ruins.
You can freely walk around and explore the ivy-covered stone walls, dramatic setting overlooking Clifden Bay. It was pretty eerie to explore in the rain and fog.
Stop 4: Dinner at Ballynahinch Castle
After a day spent on the water and in the mountains, return to Ballynahinch Castle for a well-earned dinner.
One of the advantages of staying on the estate is that you don’t have to leave to enjoy an exceptional meal. The castle’s restaurant focuses on local ingredients sourced throughout Connemara, with menus that feature local favorites.
The dining room overlooks the estate grounds, creating a cozy and elegant atmosphere that feels like the perfect ending to a day in western Ireland. It is spendy (95 euros per person), but it was so delicious. Top 5 meals I’ve ever had for sure.
After (or before) dinner, take a final stroll along the river if the weather cooperates.
The peaceful setting, the sound of rushing water, and the surrounding mountains make it easy to understand why Connemara is often considered one of Ireland’s most beautiful regions.
Day 7: A Relaxing Morning, Galway & Killarney
- Drive time: 283 km (~3 hours 45 minutes). Additional time if making a detour to the Cliffs of Moher.
- Hotel: Kileen House Hotel
After several days of hiking, road tripping, oyster tasting, and exploring Connemara, Day 7 offers a slightly slower pace before heading south toward Killarney. But, let’s be honest…there’s really nothing slow about this itinerary. Another reminder to be prepared to be tired in the best possible way.
Stop 1: Sauna & Relaxation at Ballynahinch Castle
Start your morning slowly.
One of the (many) reasons I loved staying at Ballynahinch Castle was that it encouraged you to actually enjoy where you were staying instead of immediately rushing off to the next attraction (which can be tough for me).
At the time of booking, I scheduled a morning sauna slot (I’m sure you could do this upon check-in too).
Before your time slot, the hotel gives you poncho-type robes and a basket with towels, water, and slippers. Then, you take a golf cart to their onside outdoor saunas.
We had an hour to enjoy the sauna. If you are brave, you can also jump in the water (they have a little beach area roped off) or test out the ice bucket.
Other onsite activities include guided estate walks, a falcon experience, and fly fishing.
Stop 2: Explore Galway
After checking out, begin the drive toward Galway.
Compared to the rugged landscapes of Connemara, Galway feels energetic, colorful, and full of personality. While Dublin has the big-city attractions, Galway has the charm.
Spend a few hours wandering through the Latin Quarter and exploring some of its most famous shops and pubs. A lot of people like to buy an authentic Claddagh ring or wool sweaters during their time in Galway!
We had no plans during our time here, so it was fun to just wander.
!!! Optional Stop: Cliffs of Moher
If you’ve never visited Ireland before and have always dreamed of seeing the Cliffs of Moher, today is the easiest day to add them to your itinerary.
The detour will add additional driving time, but the iconic sea cliffs are one of Ireland’s most famous attractions for a reason.
We were pretty tired at this point, so we did skip it (as we saw a lot of great coastal views on this trip), but it’s a bucket list stop for most people.
Stop 3 or 4: Drive to Killarney
After your time in Galway or at the Cliffs of Moher, continue driving south to Killarney. This marks the final major region of the trip and serves as your base for the next three nights.
Arrive in Killarney, check into your hotel, and spend the evening grabbing dinner in the onsite pub and getting an early night’s rest.
Day 8: Gap of Dunloe, Killarney National Park & a Night Out in Town
- Drive time: 24 km (~ 37 minutes)
- Hotel: Kileen House Hotel
If I had to choose one day that felt the most uniquely Irish, this would be it.
Today combines a historic horse-drawn jaunting cart, a boat ride through Killarney National Park, ancient abbey ruins, and a lively evening in one of Ireland’s most charming towns.
It’s the kind of day that’s difficult to replicate anywhere else in the world.
Stop 1: Gap of Dunloe Jaunting Cart
Start your day with one of the most iconic experiences in County Kerry: a jaunting cart tour through the Gap of Dunloe. We booked the Gap of Dunloe Adventure Tour through Killarney Jaunting Tours and met at Ross Castle for our 5-ish hour tour.
For those unfamiliar, a jaunting cart is a traditional horse-drawn carriage that has been used in Ireland for centuries. While it may sound a little touristy, this ended up being one of the highlights of our entire trip.
The Gap of Dunloe is a narrow mountain pass winding between rugged peaks, lakes, and valleys within Killarney National Park.
Instead of walking this entire route yourself (I would NOT recommend driving it), you’ll sit back and enjoy the scenery while local drivers share stories, history, and plenty of Irish humor along the way.
As you travel through the valley, you’ll pass stone bridges, grazing sheep, mountain lakes, and of course, a wide variety of weather.
The pace is slow, which is exactly what makes it so enjoyable. You have time to actually look around and appreciate the landscape rather than focusing on navigating narrow roads.
Stop 2: Boat Ride Through the Lakes of Killarney
The second half of the experience includes a boat ride through the Lakes of Killarney. Your horse will drop you off at Lord Brandon’s Cottage, where you can grab a delicious lunch (which was not included in our tour fee and you need cash), before boarding a boat.
This portion of the tour offers a completely different perspective of the national park.The boat ride was a little over an hour long (not covered), and so fun to learn about the history of the water, glide under bridges, and see Ross Castle from the water.
The combination of the jaunting cart and boat tour makes this one of the best ways to experience Killarney National Park without needing to spend the entire day hiking.
Stop 3: Explore Muckross Abbey
After returning from the tour, head over to Muckross Abbey.
While Ireland is filled with historic ruins, Muckross Abbey quickly became one of my favorites (I’m pretty sure it was my husband’s favorite stop).
Founded in the 1400s, the abbey is remarkably well-preserved and easy to explore. The highlight is the massive yew tree growing in the center courtyard. So so cool to see.
Its twisted branches have become one of the most photographed spots in Killarney National Park, and seeing it in person feels almost magical.
It’s free to park, visit, and explore, and a must when in Killarney National Park.
Optional Stop: Muckross House & Gardens
If time allows, consider adding a visit to nearby Muckross House and Gardens.
The Victorian mansion sits on beautifully landscaped grounds overlooking Muckross Lake and offers another glimpse into Ireland’s history. Even if you don’t tour the house itself, the gardens are worth exploring.
Evening: A Night Out in Killarney
After a full day in the national park, head back to the hotel for a quick shower and to get ready for a night out on the town. It was the most fun way to spend a Saturday night in Killarney.
The town comes alive in the evenings, and everyone was SO friendly.
Start with dinner at one of the many restaurants in town before making your way to a pub for live music. Even if you’re not typically a pub person, this is one of those experiences that feels essential while visiting Ireland.
We started our evening listening to live traditional Irish music downstairs at the Killarney Grand and then ended upstairs listening to the piano bar!
Pro tip! If you are hungry for a late-night bite, walk down the street to grab a burger from Mike’s. It was one of the best burgers I’ve had.
Day 9: Dingle Peninsula & Slea Head Drive
- Drive time: 152 km (~2 hours 45 minutes)
- Hotel: Kileen House Hotel
If you’ve spent any time researching Ireland road trips, you’ve probably heard of the Dingle Peninsula. The route follows the famous Slea Head Drive, a scenic loop around the western tip of the peninsula.
Get an early start because you’ll want plenty of time for all the stops along the way.
Tip! Although it is a 2-way street, it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that you drive it clockwise to help with the flow. The following itinerary is the clockwise way!
Stop 1: Fairy Fort Ringfort
This was a last-minute add to the agenda, but it turned out to be one of my favorites.
This ancient ringfort dates back more than 1,000 years and offers visitors a chance to walk through a remarkably preserved circular settlement.
Historically, ringforts were used as protected family homesteads, but local folklore tells a much more interesting story. According to legend, these forts were believed to be entrances to the fairy world, and disturbing them was said to bring bad luck.
Whether you believe the stories or not, the site offers beautiful views across the surrounding countryside and a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s ancient past.
However, that’s not the best part. While wandering the grounds, you’ll get to feed all the farm animals. There were baby lambs, donkeys, alpacas, and horses! It was 2.50 euros pp and included the feed. We must have visited at the right time, because they even brought me over a bottle to feed the smallest babies!
Stop 2: Fahan Beehive Huts
Next, continue to the famous Beehive Huts. There was a small entry fee here, but cards were accepted.
These small stone structures were built without mortar centuries ago and have survived Ireland’s famously wet weather for generations. The huts get their name from their distinctive shape, which resembles an upside-down beehive.
Walking among them feels like stepping back in time. It was a short trek up the hill and then we spent about 15 minutes or so exploring.
Stop 3: Hold a Baby Lamb
One of the most popular spots along the Slea Head drive is the social-media-famous “hold a baby lamb” stop.
After paying (5 euros pp), you go into this small barn and get unlimited time to hang out with the babies. You can also pay extra to bottle-feed at certain times of the day.
Stop 4: Lunch at Caifé na Trá
By now you’ll probably be ready for a break, and there may not be a better lunch view in Ireland than the one waiting at Café na Trá.
Located along Slea Head Drive, this cozy (& I mean VERY cozy/small) café overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and offers incredible scenery alongside fresh local food.
Grab a seat by the window if possible (there are only 2 options) and enjoy the view while refueling for the rest of the day. If it’s nice out, you could sit at the outdoor picnic tables.
The combination of good food, ocean views, and the relaxed atmosphere makes this one of the most enjoyable lunch stops on the entire itinerary. I had a tasty toastie and soup, and my husband had a plate of smoked salmon. Both were tasty.
Stop 5: Dunmore Head
After lunch, continue to Dunmore Head. Again, we almost skipped this hike due to the rain, but (as usual) I’m SO SO glad we did. I think it was my fav hike of the entire trip (top 5 ever).
As the westernmost point on mainland Ireland, this area offers some of the most dramatic coastal scenery you’ll encounter during the trip. Towering cliffs plunge into the Atlantic Ocean while waves crash against the rocky shoreline below.
Movie fans may also recognize this area from Star Wars: The Last Jedi, which filmed nearby.
The trail is just under 2 miles, a little steep (at the beginning), and breathtaking the entire way.
This is one of those places where photos simply don’t capture the scale of what you’re seeing (which is why we almost skipped it). You need to see it for yourself.
Stop 6: Dunquin Pier
No visit to the Dingle Peninsula is complete without stopping at Dunquin Pier. The winding road leading down to the harbor has become one of Ireland’s most photographed scenes, and it’s easy to see why.
Make sure to find the little path up to get the famous overlook picture of the pier and then head down to the bottom. It’s short and sweet. And then finish your visit with the “best brownie in the world” from the small food truck.
Evening: Dinner in Dingle
Finish the busy day in the colorful town of Dingle.
The streets are lined with traditional pubs, seafood restaurants, ice cream shops, and colorful storefronts. We grabbed dinner and a drink in the Dingle pub. The fish and chips were so good (which I don’t say very often about fried fish).
Day 10: Return to Dublin & Fly Home
Like all great road trips, eventually this one has to come to an end.
Today is primarily a travel day as you make the journey back across Ireland to Dublin Airport for your departure flight.
Depending on your flight time, you’ll want to allow plenty of time for the drive, fuel stops, and rental car return.
Throughout this 10-day Ireland Road Trip, you will be able to…
- Explore Dublin and Belfast
- Walk through Game of Thrones filming locations
- Learn archery at Winterfell
- Hike through Tollymore Forest
- Road-trip the Causeway Coast
- Cross the famous Giant’s Causeway off your bucket list
- Go horseback riding in Northern Ireland
- Stay in an Irish castle
- Tour an oyster farm in Connemara
- Summit Diamond Hill
- Explore Galway
- Travel through Killarney National Park
- Drive around the spectacular Dingle Peninsula
Not bad for ten days.
Returning Your Rental Car & Flying Home
If you’re flying out of Dublin, plan to arrive at the airport at least three hours before your international flight.
Returning the rental car is generally straightforward, but it’s always worth giving yourself extra time, especially during busy travel periods.
Plus, Dublin has US preclearance, which takes some additional time before reaching your gate (but saves time once arriving home)
Final Thoughts on This 10-Day Ireland Road Trip
If you’re looking for an itinerary that combines iconic highlights with unique experiences, this route offers a little bit of everything.
You’ll experience both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, visit world-famous attractions, discover lesser-known gems, and spend plenty of time enjoying the landscapes that make this country so special.
Would I do this exact trip again?
Absolutely.
In fact, the only thing I’d change is adding a few extra days.
Because once you experience Ireland, you’ll quickly realize that ten days is enough to fall in love with the country, but not nearly enough to see it all.
As always, I’m more than happy to answer any questions over on Instagram, or I can help you completely customize your own trip. See my trip planning services here!
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