The Complete Road Trip Through Ireland

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Erin Kloostra, Travel Agent in Selinsgrove, PA

Erin Kloostra

Selinsgrove, PA Travel Agent

Erin Kloostra

Selinsgrove, PA · 2 Years of Experience

The Adventure Advisor, an independent agent with WorldVia, a Travel Leaders Agency
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We are so grateful to The Adventure Advisor! She was very thorough and detail oriented during the planning stages and very attentive to our needs while... Read More >
COUNTRIES VISITED:Ireland, Northern Ireland
PLACES VISITED:Belfast, Blarney, Cork, Dingle, Donegal, Doolin, Dublin, Galway, Glendalough, Kilkenny, Killarney, Killybegs, Londonderry, Newgrange, Westport
SUGGESTED DURATION:15 Days
This itinerary includes the best sightseeing, adventure and cultural immersion offered in Ireland and North Ireland. Though driving can be challenging in Ireland, with narrow roads and driving on the right side, it is extremely rewarding to capture amazing photographs and cherished memories. Most likely, you will make a bunch of new friends along the way!
Close All Days
DAY1
Dublin
Close Day
Exploring Dublin
Upon arriving in Dublin, check into the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel to freshen up after your journey. Immerse yourself in Irish culture by visiting the Guinness Storehouse for a guided tour and a pint of the legendary stout. Explore the historic Dublin Castle before heading to Trinity College to admire the renowned Book of Kells. Experience a unique and charming Vintage Tea Bus tour, followed by a leisurely stroll through the vibrant Temple Bar area of the city. Conclude your day with a memorable dinner at the historic The Church Cafe Bar.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Guinness Storehouse
Dublin Castle
The Book of Kells at Trinity College
Vintage Tea Bus
Temple Bar neighborhood
The Church Cafe Bar
DAY2
Dublin
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Newgrange
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Belfast
Close Day
Journey to Belfast
Rent a car and embark on a scenic drive to Newgrange, a captivating 5,200-year-old passage tomb renowned for its alignment with the winter solstice sun. After exploring this ancient marvel, continue your adventure to Belfast. Check into the Ten Square Hotel for an enjoyable two-night stay. Try the restaurant James St. for a delicious steak dinner before walking to a pub with lively music to end your day.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Newgrange
Belfast
DAY3
Belfast
Close Day
Exploring Belfast
Explore Belfast on a hop-on, hop-off bus tour, discovering prominent landmarks like Belfast Castle, the Titanic Visitor Experience, St. George's Market, the Bobby Sands mural, and the city's magnificent cathedrals. Enjoy a culinary treat at Coco, just a few steps from your hotel to wrap up your day.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Belfast Castle
Titanic Visitor Experience
St. George's Market
Bobby Sands Mural
DAY4
Belfast
Close Day
Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland
Embark on a beautiful drive to the enchanting Dark Hedges, a tunnel-like avenue of intertwined beech trees. Next, venture to the Antrim Coast to experience the thrill of walking the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, a historic suspension bridge offering breathtaking views. Savor a delightful lunch at the Bothy White Park Bay restaurant before continuing your journey along the coast. Admire the majestic Dunseverick Castle, then conclude your day by exploring the famed Giant's Causeway, a mesmerizing landscape of basalt columns rising from the sea. You'll delight in delicious cuisine at the restaurant in your hotel, The Bushmills Inn.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Dark Hedges
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Dunseverick Castle
Giant's Causeway
DAY5
Londonderry
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Donegal
Close Day
The Wild Atlantic Way
Begin your day by exploring the historic Dunluce Castle, followed by a visit to the picturesque White Rocks Beach. Continue your journey to Londonderry to have lunch at The Blackbird, then to discover the city's rich heritage, including the iconic Peace Bridge. As the day draws to a close, make your way to Donegal and check into the majestic Lough Eske Castle for a romantic two-night stay in a stunning castle.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Dunluce Castle
White Rocks Beach
Londonderry
Lough Eske Castle
DAY6
Donegal
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Killybegs
Close Day
Waterfalls and Cliffs
Set out on a thrilling Slieve League Cliffs Tour by boat, offering stunning panoramic views of the majestic cliffs. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Ahoy Cafe in Killybegs before venturing to the hidden gem of the Secret Waterfall. Continue your exploration by discovering the captivating Caves of Maghera and marveling at the cascading beauty of the Assaranca Waterfall. To complete your day, return to the tranquil Lough Eske Castle for a restful overnight stay.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Slieve League Cliffs Tour
Secret Waterfall
Caves of Maghera
Assaranca Waterfall
DAY7
Westport
Close Day
Scenic Drive
Take a picturesque drive on the Gleniff Horseshoe Drive, taking in the breathtaking views along the way. Marvel at the majestic Benbulbin mountain peak before continuing your journey to Ballycastle. Admire the stunning Dun Briste Sea Stack off the coast, and then head to Westport to check into the charming Castlecourt Hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Gleniff Horseshoe Drive
Dun Briste Sea Stack
Ballycastle
Westport
DAY8
Westport
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Galway
Close Day
Coasteering on the Wild Atlantic Way
Discover the charm of the town of Westport, then venture to Ballyconneely for an exhilarating coasteering adventure along Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way, combining hiking, exploring hidden caves, and even conquering the challenge of cliff diving. Afterward, drive to the Galway Bay Hotel to freshen up before indulging in a delicious dinner at Hooked. Conclude your day with a lively evening at The Crane Bar, enjoying traditional Irish music and dancing the night away.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Explore Westport
Coasteering - Hiking, cliff diving, and cave exploration
Traditional Irish pub with live music
DAY9
Galway
Close Day
Relaxing Day in Galway
Indulge in a day of relaxation and exploration in the vibrant town of Galway. Pamper yourself with a spa treatment or take a refreshing dip in the hotel's indoor pool. Immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in a Whiskey tasting or craft beer experience. Take a leisurely stroll along the bay into the heart of Galway for some shopping and sightseeing. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at the Bay Brasserie, savoring the finest cuisine while overlooking the stunning bay before you return to your room for the second night.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Spa treatment
Whiskey tasting
Explore Galway
DAY10
Doolin
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Dingle
Close Day
Explore the Iconic Cliffs of Moher
Begin your day with a panoramic drive to the iconic Cliffs of Moher, being sure to take a leisurely walk along the ridge path. Cross the Shannon River on the Killimer Ferry and relax on the sandy shores of Inch Beach, listening to the soothing sound of the waves. Check into the Dingle Benners Hotel and enjoy a casual dinner at the nearby Fish Box.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Cliffs of Moher
Killimer Ferry
Inch Beach
DAY11
Dingle
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Killarney
Close Day
A Scenic Day Along the Coast
Climb aboard the boat for a thrilling Dingle Sea Safari, where you'll encounter majestic cliffs, seals, sea caves, and potentially even puffins, whales, and dolphins. Afterward, drive along the scenic Slea Head Drive along the coast and stop in at Dingle Sheepdog Demonstrations for a true Irish tradition. Admire the majestic Dunquin Pier. Make your way to Killarney and check into the renowned Lake Hotel for a two-night stay. After a short hike to the Wishing Bridge at the Gap of Dunloe, indulge in a delicious dinner at the famous Kate Kearney's Cottage.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Dingle Sea Safari
Slea Head Drive
Dingle Sheepdog Demonstrations
Dunquin Pier
Hike to the Wishing Bridge at the Gap of Dunloe
Kate Kearney's Cottage
DAY12
Killarney
Close Day
Ring of Kerry
Prepare to have your breath taken away by the impressive Ring of Kerry. Explore Ross Castle, then embark on a traditional jaunting cart ride to view the picturesque Killarney National Park. Take a scenic boat ride on the Killarney lakes to admire the park's natural beauty. Discover the enchanting Muckross Abbey and Gardens. Hike to the summit of Torq Waterfall for incredible views. Enjoy a traditional Irish seafood dinner at Murphy Brownes, then immerse yourself in the vibrant pub scene of Killarney.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Ross Castle
Killarney National Park
Jaunting Cart ride
Boat tour on Killarney Lakes
Muckross House Abbey
Hike to the top of Torq Waterfall
Pub-hopping in Killarney
DAY13
Blarney
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Cork
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Kilkenny
Close Day
Iconic Sights of Southern Ireland
Embark on a scenic drive through the countryside, culminating in the iconic Blarney Stone, a must-kiss tradition. Indulge in a delightful lunch of artisan foods at the renowned English Market in Cork. Explore the historical Rock of Cashel, a medieval masterpiece. If time permits, venture into the subterranean world of the Dunmore Caves with a guided tour. After admiring the majestic Kilkenny Castle, savor a farm-to-table dining experience at Foodworks. Conclude your day with a restful night at the magnificent 500-acre Mt. Joliet Estate.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Blarney Stone
English Market in Cork
Rock of Cashel
Dunmore Caves
Kilkenny Castle
Mt. Joliet Estate
DAY14
Glendalough
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Dublin
Close Day
History along the Scenic Route to Dublin
Enjoy the last full day of your journey by driving through the beautiful Glendalough Valley en route to the majestic Powerscourt Estate. Explore the estate's magnificent mansion and world-renowned gardens, ranked third by National Geographic. Afterward, marvel at the stunning waterfall on the estate. Indulge in a delightful lunch at the enchanting Johnnie Fox's Pub, one of Ireland's oldest pubs. Discover the history of the historic prison Kilmainham Gaol with a guided tour, noting they have limited entry tickets. Check into the incredible Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, an 18th century castle with panoramic views of Dublin Bay. Enjoy your last night in Ireland at the hotel restaurant, Mapas.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Glendalough
Powerscourt Estate, Gardens and Waterfall
Johnny Fox's Pub
Kilmainham Gaol
Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel
DAY15
Dublin
Close Day
Departure Day
Drop off your rental car at the Dublin airport and bid Ireland goodbye, at least until next time!
HIGHLIGHTS:
Return Home
FINAL THOUGHTS
This exciting 14 day road trip is filled with exploring new towns, discovering history, sharing traditions, and experiencing the beauty of Ireland. The tours, adventures, and amazing sightseeing make for a very full, rewarding itinerary.