7 Day Donegal And Northern Ireland Road Trip Itinerary

Seeing all of Donegal and Northern Ireland in 7 days is physically impossible. However, a well planned itinerary ensures you see as much as you can in an unhurried manner.

This road trip is part of my 7 days in Ireland series where you’ll find 7 different ways to explore Ireland over 1 week!

Itinerary overview:

• Day 1: Itinerary will depend on arrival time (stay in Belfast City)
• Day 2: Belfast City (Belfast)
• Day 3: Antrim Coastal Route (Derry)
• Day 4: Derry or Inishowen (Derry)
• Day 5: North Donegal (Dunfanaghy)
• Day 6: Glenveagh and the Donegal Coast (Ardara)
• Day 7: Depends when you leave. Slieve League Peninsula (Ardara)

Donegal and Northern Ireland itinerary overview

Ideally, you’d have 7 full days for this Donegal and Northern Ireland road trip. In practice, your first and last days will mostly revolve around travel, so the schedule needs to account for that.

1. For those flying in/out

I’d strongly recommend that you fly in/out of one of the airports in Belfast, as Northern Ireland’s capital is the best possible start point. However, that may not be possible:

• Flying in/out of Dublin: Spend 1 day in Dublin to relax after the flight. On day 2, get up early and head to Belfast. Days 3 – 6 are the same as on my map above. Day 7 should be spent travelling back to Dublin
• Flying in/out of Shannon: I wouldn’t recommend this route from Shannon unless you’ve been to the likes of Clare, Galway, Mayo and Sligo, as you pass them all by en route to Donegal (3-hour drive). If you’re set on this route, stay in Ennis on night 1 (1-hour from airport) and then drive to Donegal on day 2, following the rest of the route in reverse. On day 7, head back to Shannon.

2. For those living in Ireland

• Where to start: Begin from whichever end is closest (Belfast City or Donegal)
• Your day 1: Let drive time dictate the pace. Long drive to start point = handy day 1. Short drive = more time to explore
• Your day 7: If home is far, travel straight back and trim the itinerary earlier (see flight-based scenarios above)

3. Getting around

You’ll need a car for this itinerary. See my guide to renting a car in Ireland and remember, if you rent a car in the Republic, remember that you pay an automatic fee each time you enter/leave ROI/NI.

Day 1: Northern Ireland’s capital

My map above gives you a clear sense of how your 2 days in Belfast will unfold. With that said, the first day really does depend on your own travel plans.

If you’re flying in early and arriving fresh, you’ll have time to see a good chunk of the city. If you’re landing later in the afternoon or evening, it makes more sense to ease into things – just alter the itinerary to your plans.

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 Belfast City (both are super central) 
• Luxury: The Fitzwilliam and The Merchant (both gorgeous, high-end hotels at the heart of the action) 

How to get around

Before reviewing the itinerary, it’s essential to consider your transportation options in Belfast since some attractions are spread out. Here are 2 options worth considering:

• Option A: Get the hop-on-hop-off bus (it’s around €29 for a 2 day pass)
• Option B: Use a combination of public transport and taxis/Ubers

1. The Black Cab Tour

Kick off your first day in Belfast with a Black Cab tour (there are a few operators, but I usually point people towards the Political Taxi Tour as it’s the one I’ve done and really enjoyed).

Over the course of an hour, a local driver talks you through the city’s layered and often turbulent past.

You’ll hear about the Troubles, dig into stories that don’t always make the guidebooks, and see the murals along The Falls Road and The Shankill Road – two communities still divided by the Peace Wall.

The drivers are measured in how they present it all, leaving you room to form your own view of Belfast’s history.

2. The Grand Opera House

The Political Taxi Tour finishes up on Great Victoria Street. From there, it’s a handy 2-minute stroll to the eye-catching Grand Opera House.

Even if opera wouldn’t normally tickle-your-fancy, the building alone is worth a look. Opened in 1895, it has weathered everything from World War II to the Troubles.

Designed by Frank Matcham, it’s considered one of Belfast’s most impressive architectural gems. Tours can be limited, so it’s often easiest to admire it from the outside before continuing on.

3. Belfast City Hall

Belfast City Hall, which opened its doors in 1906, is about a 5-minute walk from the Opera House and it’s well worth your time.

There’s a 1-hour tour (£6) running Monday to Friday (11am, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm) and at weekends (12 noon, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm).

Tour Highlights:

• Grand Staircase: Make your way up the striking staircase that sets the tone from the outset
• Lord Mayors’ Portraits: Hear the stories behind Belfast’s former Lord Mayors
• Robing Room: View the civic regalia, including the Lady Mayoress’ jewels
• Council Chamber: Step inside where Council meetings are held and see historic artefacts

4. Enjoy the finest Irish fare at Holohan’s

Right – time to eat. As you make your way towards the next stops, you’ll pass one of the standout restaurants for lunch in Belfast.

Holohan’s Pantry sits around 20 minutes on foot from City Hall and it consistently delivers.

They serve plenty of Irish staples, like Seafood Chowder, but it’s the lunchtime boxty (an Irish potato pancake) that keeps pulling me back.

Fillings range from roast chicken and braised beef to well-thought-out vegetarian options.

5. The Ulster Museum

From Holohan’s, it’s roughly a 5-minute walk to the excellent (and free) Ulster Museum. Inside, you’ll trace Northern Ireland’s story, from ancient times right up to the present day.

There’s everything from fine art and archaeology to mummies, dinosaurs and even meteorites.

You’ll also find strong exhibitions on ancient Ireland and the Troubles (read up on the differences between Ireland and Northern Ireland before you go!).

6. The Botanic Gardens

Your final stop today is the nearby Botanic Gardens. Sitting right beside the Ulster Museum, it’s another attraction that won’t cost you a penny.

Founded in 1828 (with the Palm House added in 1895), the gardens offer a calm break from the buzz of the city.

Expect Victorian-era features like the Palm House and the Tropical Ravine, both reminders of Belfast’s 19th-century prosperity.

7. Pints and live music

Day 1 of this Donegal and Northern Ireland road trip is coming to a close, but there’s still plenty to look forward to!

Head back to your accommodation (see my guide to the best hotels in Belfast) and take a breather. When you’re ready, make your way to the Cathedral Quarter (you’ll explore it properly by day on day 2).

• For food: The Mourne Seafood Bar (excellent for seafood), Coppi (quality Italian grub) and Bank Square Brasserie (a good all-rounder)
• For drink: There are some great pubs with live music in Belfast – Maddens (finest Guinness in the city) and McHughs (trad pub with live sessions) are both great!

Day 2: More of Belfast’s big attractions

Day 2 of my 7 day Donegal and Northern Ireland itinerary takes in the best of the upper half of Belfast city.

Today, you’ll explore the Cathedral Quarter, take the Crumlin Road Gaol tour and see all the Titanic Quarter has to offer.

1. St Anne’s Cathedral

Day 2 begins at the impressive St. Anne’s Cathedral on Donegall Street. This Church of Ireland cathedral is known for its Romanesque Revival design.

The foundation stone was laid on September 6th, 1899. Construction took place in phases over more than 80 years, incorporating an earlier church from 1776 into the final structure.

The cathedral opens from 10:30, so you can enjoy a slower start if needed. Admission is around £2.50 and highlights include:

• Coventry Cross of Nails: A powerful symbol of suffering and reconciliation, crafted from medieval nails and gifted in 1958
• Regimental Chapel: Consecrated in 1981, with memorials and artefacts connected to military history
• The Baptistry: Crowned by a mosaic ceiling made up of 150,000 pieces of coloured glass
• Tomb of Lord Carson: The only tomb within the cathedral, marking the burial place of the prominent Unionist politician

2. Coffee and the Cathedral Quarter

A quick 2-minute stroll from the cathedral brings you to Neighbourhood Cafe, widely regarded as one of the best spots for coffee in Belfast (they also do a very decent brunch).

Grab your coffee to take away and head off exploring. The Cathedral Quarter is home to some of Belfast’s street art.

Stick to this route I’ve mapped out and you’ll pass the impressive Merchant Hotel and the always-busy Commercial Court. Along the way, you’ll spot plenty of murals and colourful artwork tucked into alleyways and corners.

3. Crumlin Road Gaol

From the Cathedral Quarter, it’s about a 20-minute walk to Crumlin Road Gaol, and if time allows, it’s a worthwhile walk.

Open for 150 years, this is the last surviving Victorian-era prison in Northern Ireland and it once held inmates from every background imaginable (book tickets in advance).

Built between 1843 and 1846, it replaced the former county jail in Carrickfergus. The guided tour takes you through the underground tunnel that links the gaol to the courthouse, while sharing stories from its more unsettling chapters.

Set aside around 1.5 hours. Afterwards, you can refuel at Cuffs Bar & Grill, located inside the gaol itself.

4. The Titanic Quarter (via the G2 Glider)

Once you’re finished at the gaol, walk about 20 minutes to Custom House Square, where you can catch the G2 Glider.

It runs from here every 10 – 15 minutes and will have you in the Titanic Quarter in roughly 5 minutes (tickets can be purchased at the stop).

When you arrive, head straight into Titanic Belfast and begin your visit (booking in advance is strongly advised).

Allow about 1.5 hours. The exhibition is immersive – you’ll see, hear and even experience sensory elements tied to the Titanic story.

Afterwards, take the short 3-minute walk to the SS Nomadic (included in your ticket), the ship that once ferried passengers from the mainland out to the Titanic.

5. An evening in Belfast

You can catch the G2 Glider back to the city centre from the Titanic Quarter (it departs from here).

Return to your accommodation, freshen up, and then head back out for your final evening in Belfast.

• The best pubs in Belfast: Whites Tavern, the Sunflower, the Duke of York and Kelly’s Cellars
• The best restaurants in Belfast: James St, Darcy’s and The Ginger Bistro

Day 3: The Antrim Coast Road

OK, in an ideal world you’d have 2 – 3 days to tackle the Causeway Coastal Route, as this stretch of coast boasts an almost-overwhelming number of things to see and do.

As this is only a 1 week Donegal and Northern Ireland itinerary, we’re restricted by time. So, you have a few options:

• Option 1: Stick with seeing it in a day and be content that you’re seeing the main attractions
• Option 2: Only spend 1 day in Belfast. Then see 1/2 of the Antrim Coast on day 2 (stay in Ballycastle) and the other 1/2 on day 3 (stay in Derry)

Where to stay in Derry on nights 4 and 5

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

Itinerary overview

I have done the 1-day itinerary above many times over the years as a day trip from Belfast.

It’s very achievable and, in total, you’re looking at around 4 hours of drive time, which is good-going when you consider the amount you’ll take in.

Here’s a brief overview of the different stops (see the full itinerary in my Antrim Coast Road guide):

• Stop 1 (Carrickfergus Castle): 12th-century Norman stronghold on Belfast Lough, built in 1177 and one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Ireland
• Stop 2 (Glenariff Forest Park): A scenic inland detour into the “Queen of the Glens”, home to waterfall walks and forest trails
• Stop 3 (Cushendun Caves): Naturally formed sea caves carved from red sandstone (one of the Game of Thrones filming locations)
• Stop 4 (Ballycastle for lunch) A seaside town and ideal lunch stop
• Stop 5 (Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge): Historic rope bridge first erected in 1755 by salmon fishermen
• Stop 6 (Dunseverick Castle): Clifftop ruins with links to Saint Patrick and sweeping Atlantic views
• Stop 7 (Giant’s Causeway): UNESCO-listed natural wonder formed 50 – 60 million years ago
• Stop 8 (Dunluce Castle): One of the most unique castles in Europe – perched right on the cliff edge

Derry for the night

You’ve had a long aul day of exploring so it’s time to chill. Check-in to your accommodation and chill for a while.

When you’re ready, here are some food and pub recommendations for night 3 of this 7 day Northern Ireland and Donegal 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: Derry or Inishowen

I’m going to give you 2 options for day 4 of this Donegal and Northern Ireland road trip:

• Option 1: Explore Derry City
• Option 2: Tackle the Inishowen 100

Option 1: Derry

Option 1 is to leave the car at your accommodation and explore Derry City on foot (there’s a detailed itinerary in my guide on what to do in Derry).

Compact, historic and easy to navigate, it’s the only completely walled city in Ireland, packed with layered history, powerful stories and a strong cultural pulse within a tight, walkable centre.

• A (Bloody Sunday walking tour): A great way to really understand the city’s past
• B (Museum of Free Derry): Tells the story of 1968 – 1972 from the perspective of those who lived it
• C (St Columb’s Cathedral): Built in 1633 and constructed from the same stone as the Walls
• D (Join the Walls at Bishop’s Gate): Step onto the 17th-century City Walls (built 1613 – 1618) and walk the 1-mile circuit
• E (Derry Girls Mural): A good photo stop next to the mural
• F (Tower Museum): Home to “The Story of Derry” exhibition and an Armada shipwreck display
• G (The Guildhall): Neo-Gothic landmark dating to 1887
• H (The Peace Bridge): Finish with a walk across the 2011 Peace Bridge, linking the largely nationalist west and unionist east

Option 2: The Inishowen 100

Option 2 is Donegal’s Inishowen 100, which starts a 25-minute drive from Derry. Personally, if I had to choose between spending a day in Derry City or tackling the Inishowen 100, I’d opt for Inishowen every time.

The route wraps around 100 miles of unspoiled coastline, mountain passes and beaches that feel wonderfully wild.

You’ll start near Grianán of Aileach, swing past Buncrana and Fort Dunree, climb the twists of Mamore Gap, wander quiet strands like Tullagh and Five Finger, and saunter around Malin Head – Ireland’s most northerly point (see my Inishowen guide).

Derry for the night

If you took the Inishowen option, you’ll have driven for around 3 hours max, but it’ll have been broken up with plenty of stops.

When you’re ready, here are a couple of solid options for night 4 of this 7-day Northern Ireland and Donegal road trip:

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

Day 5: North Donegal (Dunfanaghy)

For many of you, day 5 is likely to be the highlight of this Donegal and Northern Ireland itinerary, as it takes in a corner of Donegal that you likely won’t be overly familiar with.

You’ll be leaving your base in Derry and heading along the northern Donegal coastline, finishing up in the town of Dunfanaghy for the evening.

Where to stay in Dunfanaghy on night 5

• Budget to mid-range: Kings Accommodation (cosy spot a 10-minute walk from town) and The Mill (gorgeous guesthouse a 2-minute drive from town)
  
• Luxury: Shandon Hotel & Spa (10-minute drive from town right by the beach) and Arnolds Hotel (super central and one of my favourite hotels in Donegal)

1. St. Eunan’s Cathedral (Letterkenny)

St. Eunan’s Cathedral stands proudly in the town of Letterkenny, a 40-minute drive from Derry. Built between 1890 and 1900, this Gothic Revival cathedral dominates the town skyline with its 240-foot spire.

Commissioned by Cardinal Patrick O’Donnell and designed by William Hague, it was constructed using white sandstone from Mountcharles and reportedly cost £300,000, making it the most expensive church in Ireland at the time.

Inside, you’ll find intricate oak furnishings, stained glass from Munich, a marble pulpit by Pearse Brothers and twelve bells named after saints of Tír Conaill.

Fancy a coffee? Brú Lab does great coffee and pastries!

2. Portsalon

Next up is the Fanad Peninsula but note – don’t take the fastest route there. The shortest route will drag you inland and you’ll miss one of the finest coastal approaches in Donegal.

Instead, hug the coast towards Rathmullan and follow the shoreline road around Lough Swilly. It adds around 5 – 10 minutes, but the payoff is worth it.

As you round the bend on the R268/R246 stretch, you’ll arrive at a viewpoint overlooking Ballymastocker Bay. On a clear day, the curve of golden sand below looks wonderfully tropical.

Ballymastocker (also known as Portsalon Beach) stretches for roughly 2km along the western edge of Lough Swilly. It’s sheltered, spacious and ideal for a long walk.

3. Fanad Head Lighthouse

Around 20 minutes from Portsalon you’ll reach Fanad Head Lighthouse, perched dramatically between Lough Swilly and the open Atlantic.

The original lighthouse was built in 1817 following the wreck of HMS Saldanha, and the current tower stands 22 metres high with a light visible for 18 nautical miles.

You can join a guided tour where local guides share stories of the keepers, shipwrecks and life on this exposed stretch of coast.

If heights aren’t your thing, you can still admire the lighthouse from the car park, where the setting alone is worth the drive.

4. Boyeeghter Bay

Boyeeghter Bay is up next, and it’s around a 35-minute drive from Fanad. Now, a warning – although the walk is only 25 minutes each way, it’s steep and requires a reasonable level of fitness.

You’ll find it on the Melmore Head Peninsula, not far from Downings. There’s a relatively new car park here, which has made the once-nightmarish parking situation a whole lot better!

The setting here is an absolute showstopper – a wild, horseshoe-shaped bay boxed in by cliffs and Atlantic swell.

5. Lunch in Downings

When you leave Boyeeghter Bay, it’s a handy 13-minute drive to where we’re heading for lunch.

Downings sits on the Rosguill Peninsula overlooking Sheephaven Bay and it’s a lovely scenic spot to refuel. Park up near the pier and head into The Harbour Bar, a traditional pub that’s been trading since 1745.

Inside, it’s all low ceilings, old timber, walls plastered with memorabilia and roaring fire during the chilly months.

They’re known locally for a great pint of Guinness, and if you’re hungry, Fisk seafood restaurant next door serves fresh, locally sourced fish with views out over the bay.

After lunch, take a wander along Downings Beach. It’s a long, sandy stretch backed by dunes and it’s the perfect way to shake off the drive.

6. Ards Forest, Marble Hill and Killahoey Beach

Before you roll into Dunfanaghy, you’ve one last decision to make – how do you want to polish off the day?

• Option 1: Ards Forest Park (40 min drive): There are 9 trails here, ranging from short 1-hour loops to longer 2+ hour walks
• Option 2: Marble Hill (10 mins on from Ards): A broad, Blue Flag beach with calm waters and sweeping views across Sheephaven Bay
• Option 3: Killahoey (8 mins on from Marble Hill): Long, open and Atlantic-facing, with big skies, rolling waves and views towards Horn Head

7. Dunfanaghy for the evening

Day 5 of my Donegal and Northern Ireland itinerary comes to a close in the charming little village of Dunfanaghy.

Depending on where you stay, everything is within easy walking distance – beach, pubs, cafés and harbour views – making it a handy base to slow the pace without losing that Atlantic edge.

My favourite spots for food in Dunfanaghy

• The Rusty Oven: Wood-fired pizza tucked behind Patsy Dan’s with outdoor garden seating and proper Italian-style bases
• Arnold’s Hotel (Bistro & Seascape Restaurant): The Bistro is relaxed and informal, while Seascape is more formal with views across Sheephaven Bay
• Lizzie’s: Casual, good-value spot known for burgers and seafood chowder (BYO wine with corkage)

Great pubs in Dunfanaghy

• Patsy Dan’s: Small, traditional pub with low ceilings and regular trad sessions (notably Mondays and Fridays)
• Molly’s Bar: Traditional local with a warm fire and summer live music most nights; good pint, easy atmosphere and popular with both locals and visitors.
• The Oyster Bar: Lively Main Street spot with regular trad sessions (Tues/Thurs) and bands at weekends

Day 6: Glenveagh and the Donegal Coast (Ardara)

Day 6 of this 1 week Donegal and Northern Ireland itinerary sees us move down through Donegal, towards the town of Ardara.

On the way, you’ll visit Horn Head, ramble through Glenveagh National Park and discover some of Donegal’s best beaches.

Where to stay in Ardara on nights 6 and 7

Accommodation in Ardara can be tricky-to-find during peak season, as the town no longer has a hotel. I’ve found both the Atlantic Lodge and Hillhead House to be great little home-from-homes.

Each is right in the town and a short ramble from pubs and places to eat.

1. The Horn Head Drive 

The mighty Horn Head (about a 7-minute spin from Dunfanaghy) is a fine spot to soak up views and ocean air! Jutting out into the North Atlantic with some seriously epic views, it offers sweeping panoramas, dramatic cliffs and even a WW2 lookout tower.

The Horn Head Drive takes you along some very narrow roads that’ll treat you to stunning ocean and cliff views.

Now, you can start this wherever you like, just aim for this location on Google Maps to get on the right route. Here’s a full guide to the drive.

2. Glenveagh National Park

Next up is Glenveagh National Park, a 30-minute drive from Horn Head and arguably one of the best places to visit in Donegal!

If you just rock up without a plan, you’ll likely wander aimlessly and leave thinking, “Is that it?”. Glenveagh is huge – nearly 170 square kilometres – so you need to decide what you’re there for: a quick ramble, a proper hike or just the castle.

You’ll park at the main car park and walk or shuttle in (no driving beyond it). From there, your main trail options are:

• Lakeside Walk: 40 mins, 3.5km, easy. Flat, scenic stroll along Lough Veagh to the castle (my go-to)
• Garden Trail: 1 hour, 1km loop. Easy wander around the castle gardens
• Viewpoint Trail: 35 mins, 1km loop. Short but steep in parts with views over the glen
• Glen/Bridle Path: 2 hours, 8km linear. Longest option, broad mountain and valley views

3. Carrickfinn Beach

Carrickfinn (35 minutes from Glenveagh) is one of the best beaches in Ireland. Expect wide, white sand, clear water and plenty of space to ramble.

You’ll find it beside Annagry and right next to Donegal Airport. Now, don’t let that put you off – there are very few flights, and when one does come in, the approach over the beach is actually worth seeing.

On a clear day, you’ll see little islets scattered offshore and the Atlantic stretching wide, which is exactly why Donegal Airport keeps topping those “most scenic in the world” lists.

4. Dungloe for lunch

From Carrickfinn, it’s a handy 15-minute drive into Dungloe for lunch. Dungloe is a lively Gaeltacht town on the banks of the Dungloe River.

It’s bigger and busier than the surrounding villages, with a proper Main Street feel and plenty of options when it comes to food.

I tend to stop in Dungloe a fair bit for lunch, and the two spots I find myself returning to the most are:

• McCafferty’s: Traditional-style pub serving hearty, home-cooked meals from midday
• The Bridge Inn: Reliable gastro pub grub. Think Atlantic cod and chips, steak, burgers and chowder

5. Dooey Beach and Portnoo

Next up are two mighty beach stops. You can visit one or both – whatever you fancy:

Stop 1: Dooey Beach (20 mins from Dungloe)

A long, exposed Atlantic strand backed by dunes and open countryside. It’s wide, rarely crowded and great for a proper leg-stretch after lunch. On a breezy day the surf rolls in clean and steady, and there’s plenty of space to wander without meeting too many others.

Stop 2: Narin/Portnoo Beach (20 mins from Dooey)

This is the showstopper. A sweeping curve of pale sand with views across to Inishkeel Island. At low tide, the beach seems to go on forever and the water often takes on a surprisingly clear, turquoise tint.

If you’ve time for one, I’d pick Narin/Portnoo Strand. Just take it handy on the approach – the roads narrow and twist as you get closer.

6. Ardara for the night

Ardara showcases life in ‘rural Ireland’ at its very best and it’s a 15-minute drive from Narin.

The village is beautifully maintained, there are heaps of traditional pubs and countless restaurants where you’ll get a fine feed.

• Places to eat: Nancy’s and The Courthouse Restaurant
• Great trad bars: Teague’s Bar (unfussy décor and friendly atmosphere), Doherty’s (its bright pink exterior is hard to miss) and The Corner House (for live tunes)

Day 7: Slieve League Peninsula

So, day 7 of this 1 week Donegal and Northern Ireland road trip is going to be completely dependent on you and your travel plans.

If you have the day to explore, my map above outlines a great little itinerary that takes in the best of this corner of Donegal – you’re going to do part of it today!

Itinerary overview

The Slieve League Peninsula is home to some of the county’s top attractions. Leave Ardara and head to:

• Assaranca Waterfall: A road-side waterfall that’s easily accessible
• Maghera Beach and Caves: A secluded beach with towering cliffs and hidden caves
• Glencolumbkille: A Gaeltacht village perfect for lunch. Visit the Folk Village or admire the cliffs
• Malin Beg Beach: A horseshoe-shaped beach surrounded by cliffs and turquoise waters
• Slieve League Cliffs: Among Ireland’s highest sea cliffs
• Glengesh Pass: Take the dramatic mountain pass back to Ardara

And that, folks, is a wrap on my 7 day Northern Ireland and Donegal itinerary! Have questions? Ask away in the comments below! Cheers!

Explore beyond Donegal and Northern Ireland

I’d always recommend weighing up different options when it comes do deciding where to go in Ireland for a week!

You’ve already seen my Donegal and Northern Ireland itinerary, now here are some other options (you can see each on my map above):

• West of Ireland itinerary
• Southwest of Ireland itinerary
• West Coast of Ireland road trip
• Fly into Dublin and out of Shannon road trip
• Northern Ireland itinerary