My 10 Days in Ireland Itinerary (From 37 Years of Road Trips)

This 10 day Ireland itinerary combines two trips that I’ve done many times over the years. I’ve tweaked and improved the route gradually, and have finally settled on an itinerary that I’m confident you’ll love.

I’m very confident, as it happens, as this exact route has been followed of thousands of visitors to this website, and the feedback is always glowing (note: I’ll give you some alternate routes at the end).

An overview of this 10 day Ireland road trip:

• Day 1: Arrive in Dublin (stay in Dublin)
• Day 2: Dublin’s main sights (Dublin)
• Day 3: Wicklow day trip (Dublin)
• Day 4: Drive to Galway (Galway City)
• Day 5: Connemara day trip (Galway City)
• Day 6: Galway to Killarney via Clare (Killarney)
• Day 7: Ring of Kerry or Dingle (Killarney)
• Day 8: Beara or Sheep’s Head and Mizen (Kenmare or Schull)
• Day 9: Cork coast and Kinsale (Kinsale)
• Day 10: Cashel and Kilkenny or back to Dublin

My favourite 10 days in Ireland itinerary

The section below is arguably the most important part of this guide, so take a few minutes to familiarise yourself with how the itinerary works before hitting the road.

1. Where to start your road trip

This is a 10 day Ireland itinerary from Dublin. HOWEVER, if you’re not starting from Dublin, don’t worry – I have 10 day road trips starting in Shannon, Belfast, Cork, Wexford, Mayo and Donegal!

2. You’ll need a car

You’ll either need to rent a car or you’ll need your own vehicle. If you’re planning on renting one, take 2 minutes to scan my guide to hiring a car in Ireland. Now, if you don’t want to rent a car, a 10 day trip to Ireland using buses, trains and tours is very doable. I have 10 day public transport road trip itineraries starting in Dublin, Shannon, Belfast, Cork, Wexford, Mayo and Donegal.

3. Where you’ll stay/overnight

• 1 – 3 in Dublin: People from Ireland will say ‘Ah, here – that’s too much time in Dublin’, but it isn’t for a 10 day trip, especially if you’ve been on a long-haul. 3 days gives you time to settle/recover from jet lag. Also, Dublin makes a great base to explore from
• 4 + 5 in Galway City: I’ve been visiting Galway City since I was 18 and it’s a place I always look forward to returning to, especially when paired with day trips. If you like, you can swap Connemara for the Aran Islands
• 6 + 7 in Killarney: Day 6 takes you from Galway, through Clare and into Kerry. Ideally, you’d stay in Doolin for a night, but heading straight to Killarney avoids changing accommodation too often
• 8 in Schull/Kenmare: This is the first of two single-night stops. I’ll give you two options to choose from
• 9 in Kinsale: Kinsale is either your final overnight stop or your second last. It keeps you moving east at a relaxed pace while giving you one last lively town to enjoy
• It depends on night 10: If you have an early flight, stay near Dublin Airport. If not, spend one final night in Dublin or extend your stay somewhere along the route back (ideally Killarney as you won’t have to choose between the Ring of Kerry and Dingle)

4. You don’t have to follow it to a tee

There is no single 10 day Ireland itinerary that’ll suit every single one of you, and that’s OK! If a section of this route doesn’t appeal to you, or if it’s moving too fast or too slow, tweak it! Or try one of the other 10 day trips at the end of this guide.

Day 1: Arrive into Dublin

Welcome to Dublin – a lively, walkable capital that’s compact enough to explore properly, even if you’re only here for a short stay.

Now, how your first day unfolds will depend entirely on your arrival time. This 10 day Ireland itinerary assumes you’re landing in the morning or early afternoon. If you’re arriving later, just trim it back and take it handy.

Before diving into the day-by-day itinerary, there are a few important things worth knowing.

Don’t collect your rental at the airport

For this itinerary, there’s no real need to collect your rental car when you land in Dublin. You’ll spend your first day in the city and day 2 can easily be done using Dublin’s public transport to places like Howth and Dalkey via the DART.

Instead, collect the car from a city centre location on the morning of day 3. You’ll save money on rental days, avoid Dublin parking charges and skip driving in the city for the most part (I’d strongly recommend reading this guide to hiring a car in Ireland).

Picking a base in Dublin

The map above comes from my guide on where to stay in Dublin. This advice is based on my 37 years of living in Dublin.

Where I’d recommend you stay

• Budget: Abigail’s Hostel (in Temple Bar) or the Generator (15-minute walk to centre)
• Mid-range: Dublin Skylon (15-minute bus ride from the city), Wren Urban Nest (Temple Bar) and the Harding Hotel (very central)
• Luxury: The Merrion and the Shelbourne (both on St. Stephen’s Green – very central)

Useful Dublin tips

• Time savers: The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus stops at or near all of the main attractions on this itinerary
• Money saver: If you plan on visiting several of Dublin’s paid attractions, the Dublin Pass can save you a fair bit of money

1. Trinity College and the Book of Kells

The first stop on this 10 day Ireland road trip is Trinity College – Ireland’s oldest university, founded in 1592.

The grounds are worth a wander alone, with grand old buildings sitting alongside more modern architecture. Keep an eye out for the Campanile, the bell tower in the centre of the square.

The main attraction here is the Book of Kells – an illustrated manuscript dating back to around 800 AD. Your visit also includes access to the Long Room, one of the most impressive libraries in Ireland, home to 200,000 of Trinity’s oldest books.

Time-saving tip: Book a fast-track ticket in advance. Queues here can be brutal during peak season and some combo tickets also include Dublin Castle and Christ Church Cathedral.

2. Temple Bar and the Ha’penny Bridge

Next up is a short 7-minute stroll to the Ha’penny Bridge via Temple Bar.

Now, I’ll be honest with you – I wouldn’t spend much time in Temple Bar during the day. Most of it is geared heavily towards tourists and prices reflect that.

That said, there are still a handful of traditional pubs here. If you fancy a pint later, the Palace Bar is worth dipping into.

The Ha’penny Bridge itself dates back to 1816 and was the first pedestrian bridge built across the River Liffey.

3. The Dublin Castle tour

A 10-minute walk from the Ha’penny Bridge brings you to Dublin Castle. For more than 700 years, this was the seat of British rule in Ireland and parts of the complex date back to the 1200s.

You can wander around the courtyard for free, but the interior tour is worth doing if history is your thing. If you booked a combo ticket at Trinity earlier, check if entry is already included.

Just beside Dublin Castle, you’ll find the Chester Beatty Library – one of the more overlooked attractions in Dublin. I’ve been twice now and really enjoyed it both times.

It houses a very unusual collection of rare manuscripts, old books and artefacts from across Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, and it’s completely free to enter.

4. Live music pubs in Dublin

It’s time to round off the first day of this 10 days in Ireland itinerary. If you’re still undecided on where to stay, have a look at my guide to the best neighbourhoods in Dublin before booking anything.

A few recommendations for the evening:

• Food: SOLE (seafood) and Gallaghers Boxty House (Irish food) are two Dublin restaurants that never disappoint 
• Live music: Darkey Kelly’s, The Old Storehouse and The Celt are some good pubs with live music in Dublin City
• Historic pubs: If you want a historic pub rather than a tourist-heavy spot, Kehoe’s and Neary’s are both hard to bate (see my guide to the best bars in Dublin for more)

Day 2: Dublin’s most famous sights

Day 2 of your 10 days in Ireland takes you around some of Dublin’s best-known attractions, along with several spots that many visitors walk straight past.

The route is easy to tackle on foot and there’s a good mix of history, green spaces, museums, food and pubs packed into the day. Note: the first half of the day will seem busy, but many of the stops are quick, e.g. the Molly Malone Statue.

1. Molly Malone

We’ll kick things off with one of Dublin’s most photographed landmarks – the Molly Malone statue on Suffolk Street.

The statue celebrates the fictional fish seller made famous by the old Dublin folk song “Cockles and Mussels”. You won’t spend long here, but it’s one of those quick stops many visitors like ticking off early on.

2. The National Gallery of Ireland

A 10-minute walk from Molly brings you to the National Gallery of Ireland and, for many people doing this 10 day Ireland road trip, this’ll end up being one of the highlights.

Entry to the permanent collection is free and the gallery houses everything from Irish masterpieces to works by Monet, Rembrandt, Picasso and Caravaggio. Even if you’ve little interest in art, it’s worth wandering through for the building alone.

The Irish collection is especially impressive and gives a fascinating glimpse into Ireland’s history, landscapes and everyday life over the centuries. There’s also an excellent café here if you fancy a coffee before continuing on.

3. Merrion Square

Just around the corner from the National Gallery is Merrion Square – one of the best-preserved pockets of Georgian Dublin.

Most visitors either skip it entirely or simply cut through the park without realising how much history is packed into the area. My map above highlights a few things worth keeping an eye out for while you wander around.

The square dates back to the 1700s and is surrounded by the colourful Georgian doors that ended up becoming one of Dublin’s most recognisable images abroad.

Inside the park, you’ll find the Oscar Wilde statue, the Dermot Morgan “Joker’s Chair” sculpture and wide tree-lined paths that feel surprisingly peaceful considering you’re in the middle of the city.

4. St. Stephen’s Green

A 10-minute walk from Merrion Square brings you to St. Stephen’s Green – a 22-acre Victorian park right in the middle of the city.

Like Merrion Square, many people wander through here without realising how much there is to see. My map above highlights several of the park’s more notable features, from the bandstand and ornamental lake to monuments dedicated to figures like Countess Markievicz and Yeats.

This place has seen far more than lazy lunchtime strolls over the years. Before becoming a public park, the area was used for everything from grazing livestock to public executions and it even became a battleground during the 1916 Rising.

Beware dodgy characters: You tend to get some ropey characters hanging around the park, so keep your wits about you!

5. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Next up is St. Patrick’s Cathedral, around a 10-minute walk from St. Stephen’s Green. Dating back to the early 1200s, this is the largest cathedral in Ireland and one of the city’s most striking buildings.

Before heading inside, take a stroll around the exterior to admire the Gothic architecture, stained glass and flying buttresses.

The interior is equally impressive, with vaulted ceilings, colourful memorials and links to Jonathan Swift, who once served as dean here and is buried inside.

6. Marsh’s Library

Located right beside St. Patrick’s Cathedral is Marsh’s Library – one of Dublin’s hidden gems.

Opened in 1707, it’s the oldest public library in Ireland and it’s best known for its wonderfully preserved interior, which has changed very little over the centuries.

The short self-guided visit (€7) takes you through original 18th-century reading rooms, narrow rare-book cages and old wooden galleries stacked with ancient books and manuscripts.

Keep an eye out for the visitor ledger signed by Jonathan Swift, along with subtle reminders of the events that swept through this part of Dublin during the 1916 Rising.

7. Lunch and a sneaky pint

After a busy morning of exploring, it’s time to grab some food. There are plenty of excellent brunch and lunch spots nearby, but these are three of my favourites:

• The Fumbally: One of Dublin’s best-known lunch spots and only a 5-minute walk away
• Two Pups: Excellent coffee, very good food and a lively neighbourhood atmosphere
• Good pint stop: Fallon’s – a tiny pub dating back to 1619 that still feels wonderfully unchanged inside

8. The Guinness Storehouse

The final stop on today’s itinerary is the Guinness Storehouse. Now, I’ve added the graphic above for those of you debating whether to visit the Guinness Storehouse vs the Jameson Distillery.

It really comes down to personal preference. I’ve done both tours several times and, personally, I preferred the Guinness Storehouse – although I should point out that I drink Guinness.

I’ve outlined the pros and cons of each above along with my own thoughts on which one I’d lean towards.

9. Superb food and Dublin’s best Guinness

That wraps up the sightseeing for day 2 of your 10 day trip to Ireland, but Dublin tends to come alive once evening rolls around.

A few recommendations before calling it a night:

• Dinner: Hawksmoor is worth considering if you’re after a memorable dinner in a beautiful old banking hall (see my Dublin restaurant guide for the city’s best bites)
• Superb Guinness: The map above shows you where to find the best pint in Dublin (note: these will be busy at the weekend)
• Traditional music: The Cobblestone is one of the better spots in Dublin for trad (I’ve listed out the best spots in my guide to Dublin pubs with music)
• Accommodation: If you still haven’t booked somewhere to stay, here’s my guide to the best hotels in Dublin

Day 3: A day trip to the Wicklow Mountains

Today is when you’ll be collecting your rental car. Arrange to get it early, but wait until after the worst of the rush hour traffic subsides (after 09:30).

So, while days 1 and 2 of this 10 day Ireland itinerary were fairly relaxed, day 3 comes with a choice – to hike, or not to hike!

It’s a decision you’ll make once you arrive in Glendalough later in the morning. Thankfully, even if you’ve no interest in tackling a long trail, you can still experience the best of Glendalough without breaking a sweat.

1. Glorious Glendalough

After you collect your rental, take the 80-minute drive out to Glendalough, one of the most visited places in Wicklow.

I’d recommend parking at the Glendalough Visitor Centre car park (€4), even if you’re planning on doing one of the longer walks later on.

Right beside the car park is the Monastic City – one of Ireland’s most important early Christian sites. Founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century, this became one of the country’s best-known monastic settlements.

The most recognisable landmark here is the Glendalough Round Tower, which stands around 33 metres high and is thought to be close to 1,000 years old.

Does this itinerary not suit? Remember, we have 50+ itineraries for spending 10 days in Ireland here!

2. Pick one of the trails

There are several walks in Glendalough, ranging from short scenic strolls to long mountain hikes. The two I find myself returning to most often are:

• The Lake Walk: Roughly 4.1km each way with very little incline. This is a good option for medium-to-good fitness levels and follows the lakeshore towards the Upper Lake
• The Spinc Walk: A far more demanding 9.5km loop that takes around 3.5 hours. Expect boardwalks, steep climbs and some of the best views in Wicklow

3. Lunch at the magical Wicklow Heather

A 5-minute drive from Glendalough brings you to the Wicklow Heather – one of the most distinctive restaurants on this 10 day Ireland road trip.

I’ve eaten here many times over the years and, while the food is consistently good, it’s the interior that people tend to remember most.

The place feels like an old Irish inn from another era, with timber panelling, low ceilings, old photographs and every corner filled with bits and pieces collected over decades.

It’s an ideal place to warm up and recharge after the morning.

4. Lough Tay and more on the Sally Gap Drive

Next up is the Sally Gap Drive – a route I’ve done more times than I can count. The road cuts through the heart of the Wicklow Mountains and the scenery changes constantly along the way, from blanket bog and lakes to deep valleys and open mountain views.

Some worthwhile stops along the route include:

1. Lough Tay: Better known as Guinness Lake thanks to its dark water and pale shoreline
2. Ballinastoe Woods: A forest walk that’s become hugely popular in recent years
3. The ‘P.S. I Love You Bridge’: A small stone bridge made famous by the film
4. Glenmacnass Waterfall: One of the more impressive waterfalls in Wicklow, especially after heavy rain

5. Powerscourt Waterfall

The final stop before returning to Dublin is Powerscourt Waterfall, around 25 minutes from the final stop on the Sally Gap route.

At roughly 121 metres high, this is the tallest waterfall in Ireland and it’s an easy one to visit. After parking, it’s a short stroll to the viewing area near the base.

It’s especially impressive after rainfall, when the volume of water thundering down the rock face increases dramatically.

One warning: During summer, this area can be full of flies, especially on warm days (honestly, I’ve never encountered anywhere with as many of them!!!)

6. An evening in some of Dublin’s oldest pubs

The drive back to Dublin takes around an hour, although traffic can slow things down considerably during rush hour (from 15:30 to around 18:30).

This evening will be your last in Dublin during this 10 days in Ireland route, as the road trip moves west on Day 4:

• Restaurants: Bunsen for burgers, Featherblade for steak or The Ivy for something a little more polished
• Don’t fancy the pubs? The Celtic Nights show at the Arlington pairs live Irish music with dinner and Irish dancing right beside O’Connell Bridge

Day 4: The road trip to Galway

Day 4 of my 10 days in Ireland itinerary takes a well trodden route (i.e. the drive from Dublin to Galway) and transforms it from a boring spin to a very memorable road trip.

Now, you don’t have to follow the route on my map above – you have two options:

• Option 1: The direct run via the M4 and M6 motorways (takes around 2.5 hours)
• Option 2: The more scenic route outlined on my map above (takes around 4.5 hours)

Where to stay in Galway on nights 4 and 5

• Budget: Feeney’s Audubon Lodge (seaside setting outside the city) and Kinlay Hostel (right in the centre)
• Mid-range: The Snug Townhouse (central) and Ash Grove House (beside Galway Cathedral)
• Luxury: The G (city-based) and Glenlo Abbey (15-minute drive outside the city)

1. The Tullamore DEW Distillery

The first stop on today’s drive is the Tullamore DEW Distillery, around 1 hour and 15 minutes from Dublin.

Whiskey has been produced in Tullamore since 1829 and the tours here do an excellent job of explaining the process, from distillation and maturation to blending and bottling.

You’ll also get access to the warehouse where around 50,000 casks are stored, along with the option of finishing with an Irish coffee tasting (if you have a designated driver!).

2. Athlone Castle and Ireland’s oldest pub

Athlone is one of the most popular stopping points on the Dublin to Galway drive, sitting roughly halfway across the country.

It’s about 1.5 hours from Dublin City and 40 minutes from Tullamore. Two standout stops here:

• Athlone Castle: Originally built in the 1200s, the castle now houses an immersive visitor experience that brings the town’s long military history to life
• Sean’s Bar: Regarded as the oldest pub in Ireland, with records dating it back to 900 AD

3. Clonmacnoise

Roughly 30 minutes from Athlone is Clonmacnoise – one of Ireland’s most important early Christian sites.

Founded in 544 AD by St. Ciarán, this monastic settlement grew into a major centre of religion, learning and trade thanks to its strategic location beside the River Shannon.

Today, you can wander among ancient churches, round towers, grave slabs and high crosses while taking in one of the most atmospheric historic sites in Ireland.

The visitor centre is also very well done and adds useful context before you head out among the ruins.

4. Shannonbridge

A short 10-minute drive from Clonmacnoise brings you to Shannonbridge, a small riverside village that many people pass straight through.

There isn’t a huge amount to do here, but it’s a pleasant spot to break up the drive and stretch the legs before continuing west.

If you’re hungry, Luker’s Bar overlooks the river and does reliable pub food.

5. Galway City

Once you arrive in Galway (an hour and 10 minutes from Shannonbridge), check into your accommodation (see where to stay in Galway) and head out to explore the city.

The map above outlines my Galway Walking Tour, which loops around the city’s best-known attractions at an easy pace.

Expect stops at Galway Cathedral, the Long Walk, the Spanish Arch and Galway City Museum, along with plenty of pubs, cafés and street performers along the way.

6. An evening in Galway

There’s plenty to look forward to on evening 4 of your 10 day trip to Ireland. Galway is a compact little city with an outsized reputation for pubs, live music and atmosphere.

A few places I return to time and time again are:

• Restaurants in Galway: Ard Bia for beautifully presented Irish dishes and Dela for modern Irish cooking done exceptionally well
• Pubs in Galway: The outdoor seats at Tigh Neachtain for people-watching, The Crane for top-notch Guinness and Tigh Chóilí for tunes (if there’s room inside!)

Day 5: A day trip to Connemara or the Aran Islands

Day 5 of this 10 day Ireland road trip presents you with a tough choice – Connemara or the Aran Islands. Both are very different experiences and both come with their pros and cons.

Connemara gives you mountains, valleys, beaches and endless flexibility with the car, while the Aran Islands offer a much slower, more traditional side of Ireland that feels wonderfully removed from the mainland.

If you’re torn between the two, let the weather decide for you. The Aran Islands are incredible on a fine day, but they can be a tough place to spend time in poor weather as you’ll be outdoors for 90% of the day. Connemara tends to be the safer option if the forecast looks rough.

Option 1: The Aran Islands

I’ve created the graphic above for you if you’re struggling to decide which Aran Island to visit. Here’s an overview of each of the islands:

• Inis Mór: The largest and busiest island, with the most attractions, pubs and places to stay
• Inis Meáin: The quietest island, best suited to those looking for a slower and more traditional experience
• Inis Oírr: Small, scenic and easy to explore, with a good balance of attractions and atmosphere

Option 2: Connemara

I’m going to take you through option 2 – Connemara. This is an area I’ve visited countless times over the last decade and it still manages to catch me off guard.

You’re going to follow the day trip route that I outline above. Now, there is a hike on this day, but you can skip it if you like.

1. Aughnanure Castle

The first stop on today’s Connemara road trip is Aughnanure Castle, around 30 minutes from Galway City.

This six-storey tower house was once the stronghold of the O’Flaherty clan, who controlled much of west Connacht for centuries.

Built beside Lough Corrib, the castle still feels surprisingly imposing today, with thick stone walls, narrow staircases and views out over the surrounding countryside.

You can explore the old banqueting hall, the watch tower and the remains of a small harbour beside the water.

2. The Quiet Man Bridge

Around 15 minutes from Aughnanure, you’ll reach the Quiet Man Bridge. Fans of the 1952 film starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara will recognise this as the spot where Sean Thornton first arrives into rural Ireland.

While most of the Quiet Man filming locations are located around Cong in Mayo, this quiet spot in Connemara played a key role.

Even if you’ve never seen the film, it’s still a lovely little stop. The bridge sits in a quiet corner of Connemara surrounded by open landscape and very little else. There’s also a plaque nearby marking the filming location.

3. The scenic route

You’ll follow the N59 towards Maam Cross before turning onto the R336 (here on Google Maps) – this is where the drive really starts to become memorable. If you need fuel, there’s a small filling station just after the turn at Maam Cross.

The road narrows as it cuts through a dramatic valley, with mountains rising on either side and dark lakes scattered through the landscape.

This stretch between Maam Cross and Leenaun is one of my favourite drives on this 10 days in Ireland itinerary and it changes completely depending on the weather. One minute the mountains disappear into mist and the next the whole valley lights up.

4. Leenaun and Killary Fjord

Leenaun sits at the head of Killary, the only fjord in Ireland. It’s around a 20-minute drive from where you turned inland at Maam Cross.

Surrounded by steep mountains – Devilsmother to one side and Leenaun Hill to the other – the village feels hemmed in by landscape.

Across the fjord, Ben Gorm and Mweelrea dominate the view and are often half-hidden beneath low cloud.

You’ll pass Gaynor’s Pub (yep, the one from Jim Sheridan’s ‘The Field’) as you enter Leenane – at the junction, take a right and park here for a great view of the surrounding scenery.

Fancy a feed? You can grab coffee and a cake or a bit of lunch at the Killary Cafe across the road!

5. Diamond Hill

For those of you that fancy a hike, the next stop is Connemara National Park and the Diamond Hill trail (25-minute drive from Leenane).

This is one of the most rewarding hikes in Galway and the views from the upper section stretch out over Connemara, the coastline and the Twelve Bens.

• The Upper Trail: 6km long, relatively easy-going and takes around 2 hours
• The Lower Trail: 2.8km long, moderately difficult and takes around 45 minutes

If you don’t fancy the hike, head straight to Kylemore Abbey, do the tour and then grab lunch in Letterfrack (see below).

6. Lunch in Letterfrack

Letterfrack is located right next to the National Park and it makes a great pit-stop for lunch before you head into the second half of the day.

I have a few go-tos in Letterfrack (I’m generally here during the busier seasons, so I usually head to whichever looks least busy):

• Veldons Seafarer: Casual pub grub with fresh seafood and hearty mains
• The Clover Fox: Laid-back bistro-style menu with veggie options and homemade desserts
• The Hungry Hiker: Casual café that’s good for toasties, soups, and baked treats

7. Backtrack to Kylemore Abbey

A 5-minute drive from Letterfrack brings you to Kylemore Abbey – one of Connemara’s best-known landmarks.

Built in 1868 as a private castle, the building sits at the edge of Pollacapall Lough with the Twelve Bens mountains rising behind it.

The setting alone is enough to justify the stop, but there’s plenty to see inside too, from restored period rooms and Victorian gardens to the small Gothic church tucked away nearby.

My 2 cents: The main attractions here – the lake views, abbey and Gothic church – are all located close together, while the Victorian Walled Gardens are around a 25-minute walk away or reachable via shuttle bus. I enjoyed the gardens, but they’ll appeal more to those with an interest in gardening and landscaped grounds

8. The Sky Road and Clifden

Leave Kylemore and take the 20-minute drive to the lively little Clifden Town. It’s here that you’ll set off on the Sky Road Drive.

This is a 16km loop that begins and ends in Clifden, circling the Kingston Peninsula along a dramatic coastal stretch. You’ll pass Clifden Castle, a 19th-century ruined manor house overlooking the sea.

Partway along, the route splits. The lower road hugs the coastline, while the upper road climbs higher, offering wide views over the Atlantic and surrounding islands.

Take the Upper Road: Its elevated position provides you with much better views than the Lower Road

9. Back to Galway

When you finish up in Clifden, it’s time for the return journey to Galway City via the N59, which takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Along the way, pull in here and you’ll get to stretch the legs and see the famous Pine Island.

It juts out into the inky-black waters of Derry Clare Lough and is framed by the majestic Twelve Bens mountain range.

Finish off day 5 of your 10 day trip to Ireland by sampling more of Galway City’s evening scene!

Day 6: Galway to Killarney via Cliffs of Moher

Day 6 is one of the longest driving days of this 10 day Ireland itinerary (4 hours total), but you’ll be stopping a lot, so the driving never feels too relentless.

Now, some people will wonder why I’m not recommending an overnight stop in Clare instead of pushing on to Killarney. The reason is partly to avoid having you change accommodation too often, but it’s also key for the rest of the itinerary.

By pushing on to Killarney today, you’ll be in a much better position for exploring Kerry over the next couple of days.

Although today involves a fair bit of driving, the route is broken up nicely by stops in places like the Burren, Doolin and the Cliffs of Moher.

Where to stay in Killarney on nights 6 and 7

• Budget: New Street Lodge (beside the park) and Castle Lodge (cosy B&B outside the centre)
• Mid-range: Killaran House (exceptional and very central) and Killarney Avenue (next to the park)
• Luxury: Muckross Park (5-star hotel outside of the town) and The Killarney Park (old-world hotel by the train station)

1. Dunguaire Castle

You’ll leave Galway City behind and follow the coast south towards Kinvara, with Galway Bay off to your right for much of the drive.

Around 40 minutes later, you’ll arrive at Dunguaire Castle – one of the most photographed castles in Ireland. Built in 1520 by the O’Hynes clan, this compact tower house sits right on the edge of the bay and feels dramatically placed, especially when the tide is in.

If it’s open during your visit, you can head inside to explore the restored interior and climb to the roof for views out over Kinvara and Galway Bay.

2. The Burren

After leaving Dunguaire Castle behind, you’ll follow the coast towards Doolin (around 1 hour) along one of the finest stretches of road in Clare.

This route cuts through the Burren National Park – an unusual and beautiful landscape of cracked limestone, empty hillsides and winding coastal roads that feels completely different to anywhere else in Ireland.

One of the nicest things about this drive is that the scenery constantly changes – one minute you’re driving beside the Atlantic and the next you’re surrounded by the rocky Burren landscape.

Now, there are plenty of stops along the way and I’ve marked the main ones on the map above, but these are the ones I’d prioritise:

• Fanore Beach: My favourite stop along this stretch. A beautiful sandy beach backed by the Burren hills and a perfect place to stretch the legs.
• Black Head Lighthouse: A popular stopping point with views back towards Galway Bay and Connemara. Personally, I’d skip it unless you really fancy seeing the lighthouse itself, as parking can be awkward.
• Doonagore Castle: Located just outside Doolin, this little round tower house sits high above the coastline and is very much worth a quick stop for the view alone.

3. Doolin

Next up is Doolin – a tiny village that has become one of the best-known bases along Ireland’s west coast. Now, despite its popularity, Doolin still feels relatively small and traditional compared to many tourist towns in Ireland.

You’ve colourful buildings clustered along Fisher Street, pubs spilling out trad music nightly and views stretching towards the Aran Islands from nearby Doolin Pier.

You can park near Gus O’Connor’s and take a short stroll along Fisher Street – the colourful little strip that forms the heart of the village.

4. The Cliffs of Moher

A 10-minute drive from Doolin brings you to the Cliffs of Moher – Ireland’s most visited natural attraction.

Stretching for 13km along the Clare coast and reaching heights of over 700 feet, the cliffs are impressive, especially on a clear day when you can see out towards the Aran Islands and Connemara.

Now, a couple of quick tips:

• Skip the visitor centre: Head straight for the viewing areas. Also, if you’re visiting during summer, expect crowds – Moher attracts well over 1 million visitors each year.
• Stay well clear of the edge: Large sections are unguarded and there have been several serious accidents here over the years.
• Parking: You’re charged for the number of people in the car, which I think is very excessive. See my guide to the Cliffs of Moher parking situation for some… tips

5. Ennistymon for lunch

Around 20 minutes from the Cliffs of Moher, you’ll arrive into Ennistymon – one of my favourite towns in Clare.

Unlike some of the nearby tourist-heavy villages, Ennistymon still feels like a busy market town first and a tourist stop second. The place has loads of character, with colourful shopfronts, narrow streets and the river tumbling through the middle of town beneath old stone bridges.

A few good lunch options are:

• An Teach Bia: Hearty Irish dishes, generous portions and very good seafood. Easy to spot thanks to the bright pink exterior
• Oh La La: A tiny café known for excellent crepes, galettes and strong coffee
• Market House: Great sandwiches, pastries and local produce in a relaxed deli-style setting
• Byrne’s: A cosy sit-down option with seafood, Irish classics and a nice outdoor area.

6. Ennis Friary

A 25-minute drive from Ennistymon brings you to Ennis Friary – one of the more overlooked historic sites in this 10 day Ireland itinerary.

Founded in the 1200s by the O’Brien family, the friary is known for its exceptionally detailed stone carvings, many of which have survived remarkably well considering the building’s age.

Inside, you’ll find vaulted archways, old tombs, carved limestone figures and a peaceful cloister area tucked away from the busy streets outside.

It’s also right in the middle of Ennis town, making it an easy stop if you fancy stretching the legs before the drive south continues.

7. Bunratty Castle from afar

Around 20 minutes from Ennis, you’ll reach Bunratty Castle – one of Ireland’s best-known medieval castles.

Now, whether you stop properly here really depends on how the day is going time-wise. The final admission is usually around 4pm, so if you’ve moved quickly through the earlier stops, you may still have time to squeeze in a tour.

Personally, on a trip of this length, I’d be more inclined to admire it from the outside and keep moving south towards Kerry.

Built around 1425, the castle has survived attacks, sieges, royal drama and centuries of chaos before being restored in the 1950s. Not bad going for a building that’s older than most countries.

8. Adare

The final stop before Killarney is Adare, around 25 minutes from Bunratty. The village is known for its rows of old thatched cottages, colourful shopfronts and medieval buildings dotted along the main street.

It’s also a handy place to break up the drive before the final push into Kerry.

If you fancy stretching the legs, take a short stroll through the village and keep an eye out for the old Augustinian Friary and the stone cottages built by the Dunraven family in the 1800s.

There are also plenty of cafés here if you need one final coffee before the drive to Killarney.

9. Killarney for a well-earned pint

You’ll arrive in Killarney after a 1-hour and 10-minute drive and a very rewarding day. There are some great pubs and restaurants where you can toast day 6 of your 10 days in Ireland:

• Restaurants in Killarney: Cronins (classic Irish dishes), Porterhouse (great steaks, seafood and cocktails) and The Mad Monk (excellent fresh seafood and daily grill specials)
• Pubs in Killarney: O’Connors (old-school pub with excellent Guinness) and Jimmy Brien’s (small, traditional and usually full of locals)
• Live music: Murphy’s Bar (traditional sessions in a cosy setting) and J.M. Reidy’s (buzzy late-night spot with several bars inside)

Day 7: The Ring of Kerry or the Dingle Peninsula

It’s not easy trying to tackle Ireland in 10 days as you’re inevitably left to trade-offs, and this is one of the biggest – the Dingle Peninsula vs the Ring of Kerry

Both routes are excellent, but they offer very different experiences. Having driven both many times over the years, I still struggle to pick between them.

If I had to choose one, I’d lean towards the Ring of Kerry, mainly because there’s more variety packed into the route and more places to stop along the way.

I’ll give you an itinerary for both below – there’s a fair chance one route will jump out at you once you see what each day actually looks like.

Option 1: A Ring of Kerry itinerary

Day 7 is one of the most rewarding days on this 10 day Ireland road trip. Now, while there’s plenty of driving today (around 4 hours) it doesn’t feel like it, as you’re stopping constantly.

I’d recommend getting an early start, as some of the stops on the map above are quick pull-ins while others can easily eat up a chunk of the day.

Places like Moll’s Gap only need 10 minutes or so, while spots like Torc Waterfall will likely take closer to 30 minutes once you factor in the walk. I won’t go through all of the stops in detail, as I do that here, but I’ll give you an overview:

• Stop 1: Ladies View: The most impressive viewpoint on this 10 day trip to Ireland
• Stop 2: Moll’s Gap: A winding pass with breathtaking vistas of the Macgillycuddy’s
• Stop 3: Kenmare: A charming town that’s notably quieter than Killarney
• Stop 4: Staigue Stone Fort: An ancient fort built between 300 and 400 AD
• Stop 5: Caherdaniel for lunch: Fuel up at the Blind Piper
• Stop 6: Derrynane Beach: One of the Wild Atlantic Way’s finest
• Stop 7: Coomakista viewpoint: A famous viewpoint
• Stop 8: Coomanaspig: One of Ireland’s highest accessible points by car
• Stop 9: Kerry Cliffs: Jaw-dropping cliffs towering 1,000 feet high
• Stop 10: Valentia Island: Drive to Geokaun viewpoint for breath-taking views
• Stop 11: Dinner in Portmagee: Grab a bite in the Moorings
• Stop 12: Return to Killarney: It’s a 1-hour and 20-minute drive

Option 2: A Dingle Peninsula itinerary

If you want to spend day 7 of your 10 days in Ireland itinerary tackling the Dingle Peninsula, you’re in for a treat, too.

You’re going to follow the Dingle Peninsula Drive, as outlined on the map above – a route I’ve been doing since I was a child and one that still never gets old. Here’s an overview:

• Stop 1: Inch Beach: A huge sandy beach with mountain views and a handy coffee stop at Sammy’s
• Stop 2: Minard Castle: A dramatically positioned 16th-century ruin overlooking the Atlantic
• Stop 3: Dingle Town: A lively little harbour town packed with pubs, seafood spots and trad music
• Stop 4: Ventry Beach: A beautiful Blue Flag beach and the start of Slea Head
• Stop 5: Blasket Islands viewpoint: One of the finest views on the peninsula
• Stop 6: Coumeenoole Beach: A stunning beach with dangerous currents – admire it from dry land
• Stop 7: Dun Chaoin Pier: The famous winding pier road used by ferries to the Blasket Islands
• Stop 8: The Blasket Centre: A fascinating look at life on the remote Blasket Islands
• Stop 9: Ceann Sibéal viewpoint: Rugged cliffs and the Dingle Star Wars filming location
• Stop 10: Clogher Strand: A tiny beach tucked between steep cliffs and rocky headlands
• Stop 11: Gallarus Oratory: A remarkably well-preserved early Christian stone church
• Stop 12: Conor Pass: One of Ireland’s highest mountain passes with magnificent views
• Stop 13: The Maharees: A wild stretch of coastline with long beaches and Atlantic views
• Stop 14: Caherconree Scenic Route: A narrow mountain road that many visitors completely miss
• Stop 15: Return to Killarney: It’s a 35-minute drive from where you exit the last stop

An evening in Killarney

Regardless of which route you opt for, day 7 of this 10 day Ireland itinerary ends amongst the hustle and bustle of Killarney Town.

• Restaurants in Killarney: Cronins (classic Irish dishes), Porterhouse (great steaks, seafood and cocktails) and The Mad Monk (excellent fresh seafood and daily grill specials)
• Pubs in Killarney: O’Connors (old-school pub with excellent Guinness) and Jimmy Brien’s (small, traditional and usually full of locals)
• Live music: Murphy’s Bar (traditional sessions in a cosy setting) and J.M. Reidy’s (buzzy late-night spot with several bars inside)

Day 8: The Beara Peninsula or Sheep’s Head and Mizen

Day 8 of your 10 day Ireland road trip brings another difficult choice – the Beara Peninsula or the Sheep’s Head and Mizen route.

If the weather in Ireland is poor during your visit, I’d personally lean towards Beara. The Mizen route really shines on a clear day when you can properly appreciate the coastline and headlands.

Now, both are excellent drives, but they suit different styles of trip and they also work best with different overnight bases.

Option 1: The Ring of Beara (stay in Kenmare)

The Ring of Beara is the more relaxed of the two. It’s less touristy than nearby Kerry, the roads are generally quiet and there’s a brilliant mix of mountain scenery, colourful villages and coastal views.

You’ll finish the drive naturally close to Kenmare, making it the handiest overnight stop without needing to backtrack to Killarney (note: if you don’t mind backtracking, by all means spend a third night in Killarney).

I’ve created an itinerary for you that accompanies the map above (here it is) – you’ll leave Killarney and head to Glengarriff via the scenic Caha Pass, arriving in Glengarriff in around 1.5 hours.

Where to stay in Kenmare Town: O’Donnabhain’s (central and very good value), The Lansdowne (historic hotel right in town) and Sheen Falls (luxury stay overlooking the river)

Option 2: Sheep’s Head and Mizen Head (stay in Schull)

Sheep’s Head and Mizen Head is the wilder of the two. It’s a longer day, with narrower roads, quieter peninsulas and big Atlantic scenery, especially around Mizen Head.

This option works best in clear weather. If visibility is poor during your 10 days in Ireland, you’ll lose a lot of what makes the route special, so Beara is the safer bet.

Schull makes the most sense as your overnight base, as it keeps you in West Cork and avoids a long spin back to Killarney at the end of the day.

I’ve created an itinerary for you that accompanies the map above (here it is) – you’ll leave Killarney and head for Sheep’s Head first, before continuing on towards Mizen Head and finishing the day in Schull.

Where to stay in Schull: Schull Harbour Hotel (right in town with harbour views, a leisure centre and a very handy base for exploring West Cork).

Day 9: The drive to Kinsale

Day 9 of your 10 days in Ireland takes you from West Cork to Kinsale, but the route you follow will depend on where you spent the night before.

If you stayed in Kenmare, the drive to Kinsale takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes before stops. If you stayed in Schull, it’s around 1.5 hours before stops and, in my opinion, it’s the better route.

The Schull route keeps you closer to the coast, brings you through some of West Cork’s best villages and gives you a more interesting final spin before reaching Kinsale.

Main stops between Kenmare and Kinsale

• Gougane Barra: A small lake valley near Ballingeary, best known for St. Finbarr’s Oratory, which sits on a tiny island surrounded by mountains
• Macroom: A historic market town best known for Macroom Castle, whose gatehouse still stands at the centre of town. It’s a handy place to break the drive for coffee or food

Main stops between Schull and Kinsale

• Union Hall: A small fishing village with a sheltered harbour, colourful houses and a quieter feel than many of the villages on this 10 day Ireland road trip
• Glandore: One of the prettiest villages on this route, sitting above a sheltered harbour with views across to Union Hall
• Drombeg Stone Circle: One of Ireland’s best-known stone circles, dating to the Bronze Age
• Clonakilty: A lively West Cork town with colourful streets, plenty of places to eat and a strong food reputation
• Inchydoney Beach: A wide sandy beach just outside Clonakilty, popular with walkers and surfers

Arrive into Kinsale

Once you arrive into Kinsale, check in if you can, park up and head for lunch – the town is compact, colourful and easy to explore on foot, with most of the best pubs, cafes and restaurants clustered around the centre and harbour.

There are some great hotels in Kinsale and, once you stay in the areas on my map above, you’ll find it hard to go wrong:

Where to stay in Kinsale

• Budget: The White Lady Hotel is central, good value and a handy option if you want to stay close to the harbour
• Mid-range: Actons Hotel is right by the water, a short walk from the town centre and one of the few hotels with a pool, sauna, hot tub and gym.
• Upper-end: The Trident Hotel is my go-to in Kinsale, with harbour views, a scenic location and a more luxurious feel without being far from town

The Scilly Walk and lunch

I’m going to give you a walk-food-fort combination in the form of the Scilly Walk. Walk towards the Bullman (30-minute walk from the town) and enjoy wonderful views of Kinsale Town.

The Bullman’s a great spot for a feed (and a pint…), especially during summer if you can nab a seat outside! Leave the Bullman and walk 5 minutes to Charles Fort – Ireland’s largest military installation.

The huge star-shaped building dates back to the late 17th century and over the years, has seen some fearsome battles. The fort survived a 13-day siege during the Williamite wars in 1690 and a battle during the Civil War in the 1920s.

Make sure to head to the ramparts for the stunning view over Kinsale Harbour. There are guided and self-guided tours and you’ll likely spend 1 hour here.

Does this itinerary not suit? Remember, I have 56 different itineraries for spending 10 days in Ireland here!

An evening in Kinsale

From Charles Fort, you’re a 35-minute walk back into town (the views of the town will be in front of you – enjoy!).

Now, you’ll be passing very close to The Spaniard Inn on the way back. It’s one of the oldest pubs in Kinsale and it’s well worth nipping into!

• Great food: You’ve plenty of restaurants in Kinsale to choose from – my 2 go-tos are Man Friday and The Black Pig
• Great pubs: Kitty Ó Sé’s (live music) and The White House 

Day 10: Cashel and Kilkenny City (or back to Dublin)

The final day of this 10 day Ireland itinerary will depend on you and your plans. If you need to head back to Dublin ahead of your flight home, do that, and give yourself plenty of time.

The drive from Kinsale to Dublin Airport takes around 3 hours before traffic, stops or delays are factored in.

If you have all of Day 10 and that night free, you can turn the final day into a memorable one.

Where to stay in Kilkenny on night 10

• Where I normally stay: Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel (very central, close to the castle and good if you want to be in the middle of town)
• I’ve heard good things in recent years about: Zuni Boutique Hotel (central, stylish and has free parking) or Butler House (historic, beside Kilkenny Castle, with gardens and free parking)

The main stops on the way to Kilkenny

There’s no right or wrong way to tackle the final day of your 10 day trip to Ireland – you’re spoiled for choice, and trying to do everything will make it feel rushed.

If it was me, I’d get a good chunk of the driving done first. The full spin from Kinsale to Kilkenny is around 2.5 hours, so I’d skip Blarney Castle, stop at Cahir Castle for a look around the outside, and then do the tour at the Rock of Cashel.

Just make sure to book the Rock of Cashel in advance, as it’s the one stop on this route I’d properly prioritise.

Stop at Jerpoint Abbey before the city

Before heading into Kilkenny City, make time for Jerpoint Abbey, just outside Thomastown. It’s one of Ireland’s best-preserved Cistercian abbeys, with parts of the site dating back to the late 12th century.

The abbey was once home to Cistercian monks before Henry VIII’s Dissolution of the Monasteries brought its religious life to an end in the 1500s.

Today, the ruins are the draw – thick stone walls, arches, tombs, cloisters and some brilliantly strange medieval carvings of people, animals and odd little creatures worked into the stone.

Kilkenny City

It’ll be mid-to-late-afternoon by the time you get into Kilkenny. Check-in and then head for Kilkenny Castle.

Kilkenny Castle has been watching over the River Nore since the 13th century, when it was built to control a key crossing point and protect the medieval town.

Three of its original four corner towers still survive, although the castle you see today is part fortress, part grand Butler family residence.

The Butlers bought it in 1391 and held it for centuries, before it was sold to the people of Kilkenny for £50 in 1967. Inside, you’ll find restored rooms and galleries, while outside, the parkland is ideal for a leg stretch after the drive.

Depending on what time you finish up: You may still be able to squeeze in the Smithwick’s Experience, but keep in mind that last admission is usually around 5pm

An evening in Kilkenny

Your 10 day driving tour of Ireland comes to an end in the historic city of Kilkenny. What a whirlwind of a journey it has been.

To finish off the trip, here are my favourite spots for tunes, food and pints in Kilkenny:

• Pubs in Kilkenny: O’Riada’s (if you’re after a traditional pub, look no further), Tynan’s (riverside pub with regular trad sessions), Cleere’s (cosy bar plus a theatre space) and Syd Harkin’s Pub (old-school pub in a building said to date to 1648, with traditional interiors and folk sessions)
• Restaurants in Kilkenny: Zuni (stylish restaurant with polished Irish cooking), Ristorante Rinuccini (great Italian beside the castle) and Campagne (Michelin-starred – ideal if you want to finish the trip with a treat)

Other ways to do a 10 day trip to Ireland

The 10 day Ireland itinerary above is the route I’d recommend for most first-time visitors, but it’s far from the only way to tackle Ireland in 10 days.

If you want a road trip with more variety, the “Around Ireland” route gives you Dublin, Belfast, the Antrim Coast, Donegal, Achill, Galway, Dingle, Killarney, Beara, Mizen and Kilkenny. It’s busy, but brilliant if you don’t mind moving base constantly.

If you want a wilder 10 days in Ireland itinerary, the northern route is the one to look at. It covers Dublin, Antrim, Donegal, Sligo, Westport, Achill and Galway, with less time in the south but far more Atlantic scenery.

FAQs about taking a 10 day Ireland road trip

I’ve tried to answer the questions I get asked most about planning a 10 day Ireland itinerary below. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, ask away in the comments.