A Perfect 6 Day Ireland Itinerary (With Map)

Although my Irish Road Trip hub has 50 customisable itineraries for spending 6 days in Ireland (you can pick your start point, mode of transport and more), the route below is the most popular.

It starts in Belfast (you can change this, if needed) and it takes in the best of Antrim before moving on to Donegal.

An overview of this 6 day Ireland itinerary:

• Day 1: Belfast City
• Day 2: The Antrim Coast
• Day 3: Derry City
• Day 4: Inishowen Peninsula
• Day 5: Northwest Donegal
• Day 6: Slieve League Peninsula

A tried-and-tested 6 day Ireland itinerary

Take 10 seconds to scan the points below, which explain the ins-and-outs of this 6 day Ireland road trip:

1. Start point

This itinerary starts in Belfast. Are you starting your trip from elsewhere? DON’T WORRY – I have 6 day road trips starting from Shannon, Belfast, Cork, Wexford, Mayo and Donegal!

2. Getting around

This itinerary is for those spending 6 days in Ireland with a car (see this guide to renting a car in Ireland without getting scammed).

NO CAR?! NO WORRIES! I have 6 day public transport road trips starting in Dublin, Shannon, Belfast, Cork, Wexford, Mayo and Donegal.

3. This is a ‘fast-trip’

This itinerary falls into the ‘fast-trip’ category – i.e. it fits as much into your 6 days in Ireland as is reasonably possible.

If you want to explore at a SLOWER PACE over 6 days, I have ‘Slow-trips’ starting in Dublin, Shannon, Belfast, Cork, Wexford, Mayo and Donegal.

Day 1: Belfast

Day 1 of your 6 days in Ireland takes you to Northern Ireland’s capital (see the difference between Northern Ireland vs Ireland if you’re confused).

There’s a heap of history to uncover in Belfast and you’ve a day of a day of unique tours, great food and live music to look forward to!

Where to stay in Belfast

• Budget: Vagabonds Hostel (in the city centre) and Amica Guesthouse (short bus/drive from the city centre)
• Mid-range: Ten Square Hotel and Maldron Hotel (both are very central with exceptional reviews) 
• Luxury: The Fitzwilliam and The Merchant (high-end hotels at the heart of the action)

1. The Black Cab Tour

I’ve done the Black Cab tour (read reviews here) three times over the years. It is, without a doubt, the most memorable among the many things to do in Belfast.

On the Belfast Political Taxi Tour, a local driver will guide you through the city’s turbulent past, sharing stories and hard truths that are often left untold.

You’ll dive deep into the era known as ‘the Troubles‘ and encounter powerful murals along The Falls Road and The Shankill Road — two neighbourhoods still divided by the imposing Peace Wall.

What makes this tour so impactful is the driver’s neutral storytelling, designed to let you form your own perspective on Belfast’s past and present.

2. The Grand Opera House

The Political Taxi Tour wraps up at Great Victoria St., a 2-minute stroll from the striking Grand Opera House.

Even if opera isn’t your thing, this building is worth a look (you’re only admiring it from the outside)!

Opened in 1895, the Opera House has weathered its fair share of turmoil, surviving both World War II bombings and the unrest of The Troubles.

Designed by the renowned architect Frank Matcham, its intricate facade and rich history make it one of Belfast’s standout landmarks.

3. Belfast City Hall

Belfast City Hall is a 5-minute stroll from the Opera House, taking you from one architectural marvel to another.

Built in the grand Baroque Revival style and primarily crafted from Portland stone, City Hall officially opened its doors in 1906.

The surrounding grounds are peppered with statues and memorials, including tributes to past Lord Mayors and a striking statue of Queen Victoria.

If you had a weekend in Belfast, I’d say the guided tour would be a must.

But with only a day to explore, take your time wandering around the grounds and soak in its impressive exterior before moving on.

4. Take the bus to Crumlin Road Gaol

Next up is Crumlin Road Gaol. To get there, you’ve got three options:

• Walk: About a 30-minute trek
• The Bus: The easiest option (details below)
• Taxi/Uber: Costs around £10

Taking the bus is very convenient. You can catch it near City Hall, right here on May St. The bus accepts contactless payments and the trip only takes 9 minutes.

You can check the bus schedule here and even book your ticket online, if you want!

5. Crumlin Road Gaol and lunch

When you hop off the bus, you’re a short walk from Crumlin Road Gaol, where you can join a guided or self-guided tour (booking tickets in advance is a good idea!).

Crumlin Road Gaol operated for 150 years and remains the only Victorian-era prison still standing in Northern Ireland.

Built between 1843 and 1846, it replaced the old county jail in nearby Carrickfergus.

During the tour, you’ll walk through the tunnel that once connected the gaol to the courthouse and hear gripping tales from its very dark past.

Once the tour wraps up, grab a bite to eat at the on-site Cuffs Bar & Grill.

6. Titanic Belfast

Titanic Belfast will likely be a stand-out attraction during your 6 days in Ireland.

Since it’s about a 45-minute walk, I’d recommend taking a taxi or Uber instead—it’s a quick 10-minute ride and will cost you around £10.

At Titanic Belfast, you’ll step into the world of the iconic ship, standing just feet away from where it was originally built.

The interactive museum can be explored on a guided tour (about 1 hour) or at your own pace with a self-guided option (about 1.5 hours).

7. The Cathedral Quarter

So, depending on your mood, you can either walk from Titanic Belfast to the Cathedral Quarter or take a quick taxi/Uber ride.

Another option is hopping on the G2 Glider, connecting the city centre to the Titanic Quarter. Just be sure to grab your ticket beforehand—it departs from this spot.

Whatever route you take, aim for The Merchant, one of the most impressive hotels in Belfast.

Originally built as the Ulster Bank headquarters, it was designed by James Hamilton and completed in 1860.

Its grand Italianate exterior is just the beginning—step inside, and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time.

Next, take the short 5-minute stroll to St. Anne’s Cathedral on Donegall St. This Church of Ireland cathedral, showcasing Romanesque Revival architecture, has roots dating back to 1776.

8. Dinner and live music

Day 1 of this 6 day Ireland itinerary is coming to a close, but there’s still plenty to look forward to.

Now, you’ve two options, next – you can head back to your accommodation to freshen up (see my guide on where to stay in Belfast if you’re undecided) or you can head straight out.

If you’re staying out, here’s a mini pub-and-food-crawl to follow:

• Stop 1: The Duke of York (2 minutes from St. Annes and one of the most famous pubs in Belfast located in the colourful Commercial Court)
• Stop 2: Whites Tavern (4 minutes from the Duke – an ancient heritage pub that was granted Belfast’s first ‘Tavern License’)
• Stop 3: Bank Square Brasserie (6 minutes from Whites – top notch food in a casual setting)
• Stop 4: Kelly’s Cellars (1 minute from the restaurant – an old-school Irish pub with a unique interior)
• Stop 5: Madden’s (2 minutes from Kelly’s – home to Belfast’s best pint of Guinness!)

Day 2: The Causeway Coast

Day 2 of this 6 day Ireland itinerary sees you leave Belfast and tackle the incredible Causeway Coastal Route.

I’ve created the map for you to follow, if you want to save it to your phone!

I’m going to recommend that you stay in Derry City for the next two nights as it’s at the end of the Causeway Coast and it’s right beside Inishowen, which you’ll be exploring on day 4.

Where to stay in Derry on nights 2 and 3

• Budget: Chamberlain House (very central) 
• Mid-range: Shipquay Boutique Hotel (overlooks city walls)
• Luxury: The Ebrington Hotel (opulent accommodation a short walk from centre)

1. Carrickfergus Castle

Carrickfergus Castle stands as one of Ireland’s most iconic and best-preserved castles and it’s a handy 25-minute drive from Belfast.

Built in the 12th century, this formidable fortress is guarded by thick, sea-facing walls and impressive towers that have seen their share of battles.

The guided tour is well worth it, but you can also take a self-guided stroll, thanks to the many information boards and exhibits scattered throughout.

2. Glenariff Forest Park

To get to the next stop on this 6 day Ireland road trip, you’ll need to follow the coast road for 55 minutes.

Glenariff Forest Park is one of the jewels in the Antrim Coast’s crown and it has a mix of long and short trails.

If you’re up for a leg-stretch, the Glenariff Forest Park walk is an 8.9km circular route that takes 2 to 3 hours to complete.

Or, if you just want to see the waterfall, you can reach it in under 20 minutes.

3. Cushendun

You’re deep within the Glens of Antrim, now! 

When you leave Glenariff, you follow the coast for 20 minutes, through Cushendall (stop here if you like!) and on to the little town of Cushendun.

I’ve made a map for you above that shows the main landmarks. The most notable are:

• The Glendun Viaduct: It was built between 1834 and 1839 and is one of the finest architectural feats in the British Isles
• Cushendun Beach: A peaceful sandy bay
• Cushendun Caves: One of the more famous Northern Ireland Game of Thrones locations 

4. Lunch in Ballycastle

After a 20-minute drive from Cushendun, you’ll land in the lively seaside town of Ballycastle.

Nestled along the Antrim Coast, Ballycastle is surrounded by sea, sandy beaches, rolling mountains, and lush forests, making it a picturesque stop on your journey.

For a tasty break, head to Morton’s Fish and Chips, my go-to spot right by the harbour.

The food is top-notch, and on a good day, few things beat sitting on the harbour wall, hot fish and chips in hand, watching the boats gently glide by.

5. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

A 10-minute drive from Ballycastle will take you to Carrick-a-Rede, a small island connected to the mainland by a historic rope bridge.

The short coastal walk to the bridge is stunning, but crossing the bridge itself is the real adventure.

Suspended 25 feet above the crashing sea, it’s a thrilling experience—though not ideal for anyone with a fear of heights!

The round-trip walk typically takes about an hour, with sweeping coastal views along the way, and it’ll be a stand-out memory during your 6 days in Ireland.

6. The Giants Causeway

You’ll drive 20 minutes to the Giant’s Causeway, next. This iconic natural wonder features over 40,000 basalt pillars rising dramatically from the sea.

According to Irish folklore, it’s the path built by the hero Fionn Mac Cumhaill to reach Scotland and face a rival giant.

Formed over 60 million years ago, the Causeway has fascinated geologists for more than three centuries and is considered one of the world’s most important natural sites.

You’ll likely spend 1-1.5 hours here. Just keep in mind that as this is one of the top attractions in Ireland, it can be busy.

7. Dunluce Castle

The final stop before heading on to Derry is the legendary Dunluce Castle, a 10-minute drive from the Causeway.

Wandering around these dramatic cliffside ruins is a must, as the castle—dating back to the 1500s—is steeped in history and mystery.

Among its many tales is the legend of the Dunluce Banshee, said to haunt the Northeast Tower with her chilling wails. Game of Thrones fans will also recognise it as the Greyjoy stronghold on the Iron Isles.

You can explore the site on a guided or self-guided tour, or if you’d prefer to skip the interior, there’s a viewpoint here and here that’ll give you a good eyeful of it.

8. An evening in Derry

The journey from Dunluce Castle to Derry takes about 1 hour. If you’re not in a rush, consider making a quick stop in Portrush or Portstewart to enjoy more of the coast.

As you approach Derry, you’ll pass through lush green landscapes before arriving at this historic walled city, where you’ll spend the next 2 nights on this 6 day Ireland itinerary.

Derry is a mighty city that’s home to some excellent pubs and restaurants. Here are some suggestions for you:

• Food: Browns Bonds Hill (for fine dining) or Badgers (good quality pub grub)
• Pubs: Peader O’Donnel’s (trad bar with live music) and the Dungloe Bar (great food, Guinness and tunes)

Day 3: Derry City

Day 3 of this 6 day Ireland itinerary sees you explore Derry City – the only completely walled city in Ireland.

Despite its turbulent past, the city now stands as a testament to history, brimming with culture, heritage, and character.

You’ll tackle many of the best things to do in Derry over the course of day 3!

1. The Bloody Sunday and Bogside Tour

As was the case with Belfast’s Black Cab Tour, the best way to get a sense of Derry’s past is via a tour.

This tour is one that I have been recommending for several years now and I’ve never had anything but great feedback from those that did it.

In just 1.5 hours, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of what unfolded on Bloody Sunday as you explore the city’s most iconic murals in the Bogside.

You’ll also get an overview of the events surrounding the partition of Ireland and how it led to the division of the 6 counties of Northern Ireland.

2. The Free Derry Museum

When you finish up the walking tour, you’ll be a short stroll from The Museum of Free Derry.

It opened in 2007 and it delves into the city’s turbulent history from 1968 to 1972.

The museum tells this pivotal story through the eyes of those who lived it, providing a deeply personal and thought-provoking experience.

For anyone unfamiliar with Derry’s complex past, this museum will leave an impression that’ll last long after your 6 days in Ireland have ended.

3. St. Columb’s Cathedral

St. Columb’s Cathedral is one of Derry’s oldest and most striking landmarks, dating back to 1633.

Its towering 221-foot structure dominates the skyline and remains largely true to its original form, with the current tower and main building preserved from the 17th century.

The spire, however, was a later addition, added in 1821.

Built from the same stone as Derry’s iconic city walls, the cathedral is rich in history and houses an impressive collection of artefacts, making it a must-visit spot for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.

4. Lunch then the Derry City Walls

There are plenty of places to eat around Derry, but Hidden City Cafe is where I find myself heading back to most frequently (it’s also a 2-minute walk from St. Columb’s.

This is an ethical eatery tucked within Derry’s historic walls, serving creative, locally-sourced bites from hearty breakfast burritos to vegan teriyaki seitan.

When you’ve finished eating, you can join the Derry City Walls from nearby Bishop’s Gate (here on Maps).

Encircling Derry for over 400 years, these historically unbreached walls symbolise defiance and endurance.

Originally built to protect settlers during the Plantation of Ulster, they withstood the famous Siege of Derry in 1689 and have since been restored after damage during The Troubles.

As you walk their mile-long path, you’ll pass gates once locked in defiance and cannons like the famed Roaring Meg, still standing guard.

5. The Derry Girls mural

Exit the city walls at St. Columb’s Hall (here on Maps) and you’ll find the Derry Girls mural at the side of Badgers Bar a short stroll away.

If you aren’t familiar with Derry Girls, it is one of the most famous Irish TV shows to come out in the last decade.

Set in 1990s Derry during the final years of the Troubles, the show follows 5 misfit teens navigating chaotic adolescence with plenty of laughter, rebellion, and political backdrop.

6. The Tower Museum

The next stop in this 6 day Ireland itinerary is the brilliant Tower Museum, a 5-minute walk from the mural.

Here you’ll find the only open-air viewing facility in Derry City—translation: expect stunning panoramic views from the top.

Inside, you’ll find plenty of captivating exhibitions, including:

• The Story of Derry: A walk through the city’s dramatic history, covering everything from ancient times to the present day.
• An Armada Shipwreck: Dive into the tale of ‘La Trinidad Valencera,’ one of the Spanish Armada’s largest ships, which sank off the Donegal Coast in 1588
• The Derry Girls experience: See Erin’s diary, Aunt Sarah’s iconic pyjamas, and Sister Michael’s legendary chair

7.  The Guildhall

The Guildhall is right across from the Tower Museum. This is one of Derry’s most impressive landmarks.

Built in 1887, this neo-gothic beauty sits just outside the city walls near the Peace Bridge. Following a £9.5m restoration in 2013, it now offers a rich visitor experience. Inside, you’ll find:

• A dedicated exhibition on the Plantation and its impact
• Interpretation panels that bring the Guildhall’s unique features to life
• Cultural spaces and a café

8. The Peace Bridge

The now-iconic Peace Bridge, opened in 2011, is right next to The Guildhall.

Spanning the River Foyle, the bridge connects the old army barracks at Ebrington to the city centre.

Designed to bridge a 400-year-old divide, it symbolically and physically brings the largely unionist east side closer to the largely nationalist west.

You can stroll across its elegant curves for panoramic views of both sides of the city’s skyline or admire its striking architecture from the riverbanks.

9. Derry for the night

You’ve had a long aul day of exploring so it’s time to chill.

Head back to your accommodation or tackle the rest of the city walls if you fancy it.

When you’re ready, here are some food and pub recommendations for night 3 of this 6 day Ireland itinerary:

• Food: Browns Bonds Hill (for fine dining) or Badgers (good quality pub grub)
• Pubs: Peader O’Donnel’s (trad bar with live music) and the Dungloe Bar (great food, Guinness and tunes)

Day 4: Inishowen

Day 4 of your 6 days in Ireland sees you head across into County Donegal to explore the stunning Inishowen Peninsula.

You’ll be following Donegal’s version of the Ring of Kerry – the magnificent Inishowen 100.

You’ll be moving accommodation tonight and spending night 4 in Letterkenny Town.

Where to stay in Letterkenny on night 4

• Budget: Mel’s (in the town) and the Mount Errigal Hotel (popular spot a 5-minute spin from town)
• Mid-range: Radisson Blu Hotel (super central with great reviews) and Station House Hotel (5-minute drive from the centre)

1. Grianan of Aileach

The first stop of the day is Greenan Mountain, home to the ancient Grianan of Aileach.

Just a 20-minute drive from Derry, you’ll find a small car park near the summit and it’s a 5-minute stroll to what is one of Ireland’s most remarkable hill forts.

Dating back to 1700 BC, this site blends history and legend, with stories of ancient kings and sacred gatherings. 

You’ll be treated to panoramic views from the top stretching across Lough Foyle, Lough Swilly, and Inch Island.

2. Buncrana Beach

After Greenan Mountain, the next stop is the charming Buncrana Beach, a 20-minute drive away.

Located along the shores of Lough Swilly, Buncrana offers several beautiful beaches, with the main beach featuring a long stretch of soft sand.

It’s perfect for a relaxing walk, with stunning views of the surrounding coast and rolling waves creating a peaceful backdrop.

3. Fort Dunree

The next stop is Fort Dunree, an 20-minute drive from Buncrana Beach.

Perched dramatically on the cliffs of the Inishowen Peninsula, this historic fort was constructed in the early 1800s to guard the entrance to Lough Swilly during the Napoleonic Wars.

Today, it’s a captivating site with plenty to explore, including Ireland’s first funicular railway and a military museum filled with exhibits that reveal the fort’s strategic and military significance.

4. Mamore Gap

Mamore Gap is a 10-minute spin from Fort Dunree and it’s one of the most memorable drives on this 6 day Ireland itinerary.

This is easily one of the steepest roads to drive up in Ireland.

This is a steep, winding pass through the Urris Hills in Donegal, offering breathtaking views from its 800ft summit.

Known for its challenging ascent, it rewards walkers, cyclists, and drivers with stunning panoramas and historical sites like St. Eigne’s holy well and a nearby grotto.

5. Glenevin Waterfall

After exploring Fort Dunree, you’ll take a scenic 20-minute drive to the enchanting Glenevin Waterfall.

Nestled in the Donegal countryside, this stunning 40-foot cascade is a true hidden gem.

The adventure begins at a small car park just off the main road in Clonmany. From there, follow the well-marked Waterfall Walk trail through lush scenery.

The round-trip walk typically takes about an hour, with plenty of peaceful spots along the way to soak in the surroundings before reaching the impressive waterfall.

6. Doagh Famine Village

Next up is the fascinating Doagh Famine Village, a 15-minute drive from Glenevin. This unique open-air museum takes you on a captivating journey through over 200 years of Irish history.

With charming thatched cottages and thought-provoking exhibits, the village vividly illustrates what life was like in this remote area of Ireland.

The 40-minute guided tour is a powerful experience, blending harrowing stories of hardship with insights into Irish customs and resilience.

7. Lunch

It’s been a busy morning, so it’s time to refuel. Drive 15 minutes to the village of Carndonagh, where you’ll be spoiled for choice with great dining options.

The Butterbean is a standout, offering a delicious menu of Irish classics, hearty burgers, and fresh seafood.

If you’re after something lighter, Diamond Cafe serves up warm bowls of soup, sandwiches, and a tempting selection of cakes and baps.

8. Malin Head

After a hearty meal, it’s time to head north to Malin Head, the most northerly point on the island of Ireland.

The 25-minute drive from Carndonagh will bring you to a handy car park with toilets.

The best way to explore this rugged headland is on the Malin Head Walk, a moderate, hour-long route covering just under a kilometre.

Starting at the car park, you’ll pass iconic spots like Lloyds Signal Tower, the EIRE 80 sign, and the dramatic Hells Hole. This is a highlight for many that follow this 6 day Ireland road trip.

9. Kinnagoe Bay

Once you arrive at Kinnagoe Bay, you might feel like you’ve been transported to a tropical paradise.

This hidden gem, just a 45-minute drive from Malin Head, boasts a golden sandy beach framed by towering green cliffs and crystal-clear waters that make it postcard-worthy.

There’s a scenic lookout point for those who prefer panoramic views, but if you want to feel the sand between your toes, a small car park at the edge of the beach is available.

10. Inishowen Head Lighthouse

As you make our way back towards Letterkenny, there’s one last detour to enjoy: Inishowen Head Lighthouse, a 15-minute drive from Kinnagoe Bay.

This picturesque lighthouse, surrounded by stunning coastal scenery, is a peaceful spot to explore.

While there’s no visitor centre or access inside the lighthouse, it’s a great area for a scenic walk with panoramic views of the coastline.

11. Letterkenny for the evening

From Kinnagoe Bay, you’re an hour and 10-minute drive from Letterkenny, a lively town known for its warm hospitality.

Letterkenny is home to some mighty places to eat, sip and listen to live music.

Here are some places where you can eat, sip and listen to live music, toasting day 4 of your 6 days in Ireland:

• Restaurants in Letterkenny: Yellow Pepper (former Victorian shirt factory with fantastic decor, a cosy atmosphere and excellent food) or Lemon Tree (family-run, Michelin-recommended restaurant that showcases Irish cooking at its best)
• Pubs in Letterkenny: McCafferty’s (a great trad bar – photos above) and The Cottage Bar (like someones living room) are hard to beat

Day 5: Northwest Donegal

Day 5 of this 6 day Ireland itinerary sees you explore a lovely big chunk of Northwest Donegal.

You’ll be spending night 5 in Ardara, a charming little village that’ll give you a good taste of rural Irish living.

Where to stay in Ardara on night 5

• In the town: Atlantic Lodge (on the main street) and Hillhead House (a lovely, cosy spot)
• Outside of the town: Ashling House and Woodhill House (both excellent and a 2-minute drive from town)

1. Portsalon Beach

Portsalon Beach is arguably one of the best beaches in Ireland.

Also known as Ballymastocker Bay, this is a stunning 1.5km Blue Flag beach on Donegal’s Fanad Peninsula, offering golden sands and clear waters perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Its wide stretch of sand triples at low tide, making it ideal for long walks. Once named the world’s second most beautiful beach, it’s a good spot to stretch the legs after your 35-minute drive from Letterkenny.

2. Fanad Head Lighthouse

Next up is Fanad Head Lighthouse, a 20-minute drive from Portsalon.

Perched on Donegal’s rugged northern coastline, this working lighthouse, dating back to 1817, feels almost magical—especially if you visit during the quieter off-season.

There’s plenty of parking nearby, offering stunning views of the lighthouse against the wild Atlantic backdrop.

3. Boyeeghter Bay

Boyeeghter Strand on the Rosguill Peninsula is one of the most popular places to visit in Donegal, and you’ll find the car park for the trail a 40-minute drive from Fanad.

Thanks to a new trail and car park introduced in 2022, accessing this remote spot is much easier now.

At low tide, two separate beaches reveal themselves, merging into one when the tide returns.

The currents are extremely dangerous here, so stay on the sand and avoid entering the water.

When you leave Boyeeghter Bay, follow the coast towards Downings Beach – this is a scenic spin known as the Atlantic Drive.

4. Marble Hill then lunch in Dunfanaghy

When you leave Downings, you’re a 45-minute drive from Marble Hill.

Now, there are two optional stops on the way – the first is Doe Castle and the second is Ards Forest Park.

You can only see Doe Castle from the outside so, personally, I’d skip it. Ards is a 1200-acre forest park where the trees meet the sea (the shortest walk is 1.5 hours).

When you’re ready, head for Marble Hill for a stroll. This beach sits proudly at the western side of Donegal’s Sheephaven Bay and offers views across of the Rosguill Peninsula.

After the beach, head into the little town of Dunfanaghy for a bite-to-eat. I always head to The Oyster Bar when I’m in this neck of the woods – the food and services never disappoints.

5. Glenveagh

Glenveagh National Park is a 20-minute drive from Dunfanaghy and it’s the most impressive castle in this 6 day Ireland itinerary.

Covering 16,000 hectares of breathtaking landscapes, Glenveagh is Ireland’s second-largest national park and home to pristine lakes, rugged mountains, waterfalls, and the historic Glenveagh Castle (built between 1867–1873).

There are several walking trails to enjoy, with the Derrylahan Nature Trail being one of the most popular.

If you visit during summer, you can rent bikes on-site and also take a shuttle bus from the car park to the castle.

6. Ardara

After an eventful day, it’s time to head to your final stop and the place you’ll be calling home for night 5, Ardara (a 1-hour drive away).

The village is a wonderful alternative to the hustle and bustle of nearby Donegal Town and a couple of days here offers an insight into life in a quaint Irish village.

Once you arrive, check into your accommodation, freshen up, and see what all the fuss is about!

7. Dinner, drinks and live music

Ardara showcases life in ‘rural Ireland’ at its very best. The village is beautifully maintained, there are heaps of traditional pubs and countless restaurants where you’ll get a fine feed.

You can round off day 5 of your 6 days in Ireland with food and a pint in one of the places below:

• Food: Nancy’s has been a staple of Ardara for many years. Not only will you be set for a few creamy pints here, but they also do a fantastic food selection, including fresh oysters
• Pubs: Doherty’s and The Corner House are two good spots for pints and live tunes

Day 6: The Slieve League Peninsula and back to Belfast

The final day of this 6 day Ireland itinerary will be very dependant on you and your schedule:

• If you have all of day 6 in Ireland: Follow the itinerary below
• If you have to travel home on day 6: Avoid heading to Ardara after visiting Glenveagh and head back to Letterkenny

For those of you following the itinerary below, you’re in for a treat!

1. Glengesh Pass

Roads like the winding path through Glengesh Pass make exploring Ireland an unforgettable adventure.

This high mountain pass, meaning “Glen of the Swans,” weaves through the Glengesh and Mulmosog mountains, connecting Ardara and Glencolumbkille.

As you drive, you’ll pass lush green fields, open countryside, and plenty of roaming sheep, all while navigating narrow, winding roads. Take your time, as visibility can be tricky on the bends.

Be sure to stop at the Glengesh Viewing Point—just 12 minutes from Ardara—where you’ll find space for around seven cars and spectacular views of the valley below.

2. Assaranca Waterfall

The next stop is the lovely Assaranca Waterfall. Now, you’ve to double back here to save doing the same later on.

The mighty Assaranca Waterfall is a spectacular sight that’s right next to the road and is quite possibly one of the most impressive waterfalls in Donegal.

You can, quite literally, park up right next to them and soak up the sights and sounds of Assaranca from a few feet away. 

3. Maghera Beach and Caves

Maghera Beach, another highlight on this 6 day Ireland itinerary, is around the corner, a 2-minute drive away.

There’s a car park here that’s run by a local fella who charges a very reasonable €3 per car. It’s well worth the cost, as he also maintains the pathways to the beach.

Perfect white sand, deep blue water, and dunes for shelter if the wind is strong entice tourists from all over the country to visit this hidden gem.

The caves are only accessible at low tide, so be sure to check the tide times in advance if you want to visit them.

With more than 20 caves, 8 arches, and 5 tunnels, there’s a lot to see here. According to legend, locals sheltered in the caves from Cromwell or the Vikings, depending on who you talk to.

4. Glencolumbkille for Lunch

As lunchtime draws near, enjoy a 30-minute drive through more gorgeous scenery to Glencolumbkille.

Once you reach the little town, head for An Cistin.

At An Cistin, you’ll find an extensive menu that takes in dishes from around the world.

5. Malin Beg (Sliver Strand)

Once you’ve had a good feed, it’s back on the road to visit another beautiful beach.

But before you get there, take time to enjoy the scenery along the 15-minute coast drive from Glencolumbkille to Malin Beg AKA Silver Strand.

Slightly off the beaten track, this is a remarkably peaceful beach to visit. The horseshoe-shaped bay is enclosed by cliffs that tower all around, offering a sense of tranquillity and utter beauty.

There’s 174 steps you’ll need to go down and up if you want to get to the sand, which won’t suit those of you with limited mobility

6. Sliabh Liag Cliffs

The Slieve League Cliffs, are the highest sea cliffs on mainland Ireland, towering a little over 600 metres above the sea.

It is unintentionally a case of ‘leaving the best to last’ – this will be the last real stop during your 6 days in Ireland.

Three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher, they boast spectacular scenery. It’ll take about half an hour to drive from Sliver Strand.

If you visit during the summer, you’ll have to park at the visitor centre and you can get a bus from there.

If you visit outside of the peak season (see my guide to the best time to visit Ireland), you can drive to the top. On a clear day, the views here are out of this world.

7. Dinner in Donegal Town

The journey back to Belfast starts now, but I’ll break it up a bit for you. Head to Donegal Town, first, a 50-minute drive away.

Its port was invaded by the Vikings in the 8th century, giving the town its name, Dún na nGall, which means “Fort of the Foreigners.”

Park up and head for a ramble – the towns main attraction is Donegal Castle, located on the banks of the River Eske.

It was built in 1474 by the ruling O’Donnell family and it’s impressive both inside and out.

You’ll want a feed before the 2.5-hour drive back to Belfast. Two good options are Blas (fresh, locally sourced cuisine) and Olde Castle Seafood Bar (award-winning seafood dishes).

Stop 8: Back to Belfast

When you’re belly’s happy, take the 2 hour and 15 minute drive back to Belfast where you’ll spend the night.

If you’re struggling to decide what area of the city to stay in, see my guide on where to stay in Belfast.

And that brings this 6 day Ireland itinerary to a close! Remember, you don’t have to follow this route – see the map below!

Wrapping up what to do in Ireland for 6 days

You’ll hopefully have a better sense of what to do in Ireland for 6 days after reading the guide above.

Remember, I have 56 different 6 days in Ireland itineraries in my Road Trip Library. You can pick:

• Your starting point
• Your mode of transport
• Your fitness level
• How fast you like to travel

Have any Ireland itinerary 6 days questions? Ask them in the comments below and I’ll do my best to help!