1 Week Ireland Road Trip Itinerary:
Ireland had been on my travel list for a while, so I finally packed my bags, rented a car, and set off on a one-week road trip around the Emerald Isle! From rolling green hills and dramatic coastal cliffs to charming little towns and, of course, sheep around every corner, there was something new to see every day.
I quickly fell in love with Ireland’s landscapes and the freedom of exploring at my own pace. My favorite moments were the ones spent out on the open road, stopping whenever a view caught my eye and wandering through the quieter corners of the countryside.
Fair warning: driving on the left side of the road took some getting used to. The narrow roads, stone walls, and unfamiliar turns made for a few stressful moments (and more than a few curbs), but thankfully we had rental car insurance! Looking back, it’s all part of the adventure.
In this Ireland road trip guide, I’ll take you along for the journey, sharing where I stayed, what I saw, and some of my favorite stops along the way. So grab a cup of tea and let’s hit the road! ☘️
Day 1: Exploring Ireland’s North Coast from Belfast to Bundoran
Starting Point: Belfast
We kicked off our Ireland road trip in Belfast and made our way along the beautiful northern coastline before eventually crossing into the Republic of Ireland and ending the day in Bundoran. This stretch of the coast is packed with incredible scenery, historic castles, and a few famous Game of Thrones filming locations along the way.
There’s quite a bit to squeeze into one day, but if you love dramatic coastal views, interesting history, and a little bit of GOT nostalgia, this is a great route to explore!
Dark Hedges – The Iconic Kingsroad from Game of Thrones
The Dark Hedges was our first stop of the day and one of Northern Ireland’s most recognizable filming locations. If you’ve watched Game of Thrones, you might recognize this beautiful avenue of beech trees as the Kingsroad.
The trees were originally planted in the 18th century to create an impressive entrance to the nearby Gracehill House. Over the years, their branches have grown together to form a natural tunnel that makes for a pretty unforgettable sight.
It’s a fun quick stop for photos and a chance to walk beneath the enormous intertwining branches. Just keep in mind that it’s become a very popular attraction, so arriving earlier in the day is a good idea if you want to avoid some of the crowds.
National Trust Carrick-a-Rede and Larrybane Quarry
Next, we continued along the coast to National Trust Carrick-a-Rede, one of Northern Ireland’s most famous attractions. Originally built by salmon fishermen, the rope bridge connects the mainland to a small island, hanging around 30 meters above the Atlantic Ocean.
Crossing the bridge is definitely an experience, especially with the ocean stretching out below you! The surrounding coastal scenery is just as impressive, with beautiful views of the cliffs and plenty of opportunities to spot seabirds. For GOT fans, this is the site where Balon Greyjoy and his brother Euron fight.
The nearby Larrybane Quarry is another fun stop. It served as a filming location for the series, including the scene where Brienne of Tarth is introduced.
Even if you’re not a GOT fan, the coastal scenery here is well worth the visit.
Giant’s Causeway
Our journey continues to the awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its surreal hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. This geological wonder stretches beyond the Irish coast, connecting to the mysterious island of Staffa in Scotland.
The mythological tale of the Giant Finn McCool adds an extra layer of intrigue. Legend has it that the Giant built the causeway as a challenge to his Scottish rival, Benandonner.
Read more about visiting Staffa in my blog linked here.
Dunseverick Castle
As we drive along the scenic coast, our next stop is the historic ruins of Dunseverick Castle. Perched on cliffs overlooking the sea, this medieval stronghold offers a glimpse into Ireland’s tumultuous past, with ties to Viking raids and battles between Irish clans.
Nearby lies Dunluce Castle, which was used as a film site for the formidable stronghold of House Greyjoy, Pyke, in GOT.
Where We Stayed:
Our day ended at the charming seaside town of Bundoran, where we stayed at the Rolling Waves Guesthouse. It’s a simple guesthouse, but there are nicer hotels in the area. Don’t forget to walk across the street to see surfers and catch a breathtaking sunset view of the bay.
For a full breakdown of the North Coast Ireland Itinerary, check out my blog “Planning Your North Coast of Ireland Road Trip: Unforgettable Experiences“.
Day 2: Coastal Marvels and Cliffs of Wonder – Bundoran to Lahinch
Embarking on Day 2, our Irish road trip unveiled a coastal spectacle from Bundoran to Lahinch.
Keel West and Keem Bay
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Keel West and Keem Bay with their pristine beaches and towering sea cliffs. These two locations are more than just a feast for the eyes; they also offer seclusion, allowing visitors to form a more personal connection with Ireland’s rugged coastline.
Fanore Beach and the Burren Coast
Our journey continues on to Fanore Beach, an unspoiled paradise surrounded by the majestic Atlantic Ocean. As we ventured along the Burren Coast, the landscape transformed into a rocky wonderland, a barren terrain that looked other worldly
Cliffs of Moher
Our day would not have been complete without a visit to the world-famous Cliffs of Moher. These magnificent cliffs, stretching along the Atlantic coast, surpassed all of our expectations. We were treated to a breathtaking ocean view, and caught glimpses of playful cows grazing on the cliffside.
Where We Stayed:
At the end of day two, we arrived in the beautiful coastal town of Lahinch. We spent the night at the cozy Crag Shore B&B, where we were treated to breathtaking views of Ireland’s western coast. Your stay comes with a delicious, hearty breakfast for the next morning.
Day 3: A Tapestry of History and Cinematic Wonders – Lahinch to Castlemaine
Adare Cottage
Our first stop is Adare Cottage, a charming retreat that looks like it was plucked out of a fairy tale. Surrounded by lush greenery, this picturesque spot offers a glimpse into Ireland’s past. The cottage’s thatched roofs and colorful gardens embodies the quintessential charm of the Irish countryside
Brandon Mountain
Next up is Brandon Mountain, an imposing presence on the Dingle Peninsula. As we ventured through its trails, the mountain treated us to panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. This is also part of an ancient pilgrim route.
Binary Sunset View
Our journey took a thrilling turn as we made our way to the Binary Sunset view – a location that holds a special place in cinematic history. This site, featured in Star Wars Episode VIII, is where Luke Skywalker’ “dies”. The area is accessible through a farmer’s house, follow the signs and if you can leave a donation as the family maintains the site.
Dunmore Head
The adventure continued to Dunmore Head, the westernmost point of Europe, where history and nature coexisted in perfect harmony. The narrow coastal roads led us to sweeping vistas, with sheep grazing lazily against the backdrop of the vast Atlantic. As we stood at the edge of Dunmore Head, the Sleeping Giant island unfolded before us – a rugged silhouette punctuating the expanse of the ocean.
Star Wars Connections:
Take a break from GOT and enter the realm of Star Wars. Dingle Peninsula, where Adare Cottage and Dunmore Head are nestled, served as a significant filming location for Star Wars Episode VIII. The rugged landscapes, ancient ruins, and dramatic coastal scenery provided the perfect backdrop for this cinematic masterpiece. As we explored the same paths that once witnessed lightsabers and intergalactic adventures, the line between fantasy and reality blurred, making for an unforgettable experience.
Where We Stayed
We ended the third day in Leabrook House B&B in County Kerry.
Day 4: Exploring Killarney National Park – Castlemaine to Bunclody
Our day starts amidst the pristine landscapes of Killarney National Park, a natural sanctuary graced by woodlands, lakes, and mountain vistas. The park’s crown jewel, Muckross House, stood as a testament to Victorian elegance, surrounded by impeccably manicured gardens that beckoned exploration.
Torc Waterfall & Muckross House
Located in the heart of Killarney National Park, Torc Waterfall is a breathtaking sight to behold with its cascading beauty. From here, take a scenic stroll to Muckross House to avoid the hassle of re parking.
Step back in time and discover the luxurious interiors of Muckross House, a 19th-century mansion. Take in the Victorian elegance of this stunning estate, while immersing yourself in the stories that echo throughout its halls.
Abbey and Graveyard
Continue to an ancient Abbey and Graveyard, where Celtic heritage came to life in the form of Franciscan ruins. Don’t miss the ancient yew tree in the heart of the Abbey’s cloister.
Ross Castle
Perched on the edge of Lough Leane, Ross Castle is a medieval fortress steeped in history. . The 15th-century tower house and keep boasts a rich cultural heritage and is the ancestral home of the Chiefs of the Clan O’Donoghue.
Where we stayed:
As the day ended, we bid farewell to the wonders of Killarney and embarked on a scenic drive to the charming town of Bunclody where we stayed at Clody lodge.
Day 5: Urban Exploration and City Wonders – Bunclody to Belfast
Leaving Bunclody behind, we set out on Day 5 towards the bustling city of Belfast. The day promised an exciting change of pace, with a focus on urban exploration. Once we arrived, we set off into the city, fully immersing ourselves in the sights and sounds. Every step we took brought us new and exciting highlights, including:
- Titanic Quarter: Take a tour of the iconic Titanic Belfast museum and learn about the legendary ship’s tragic yet captivating tale.
- City Hall: Admire the architectural splendor of Belfast City Hall.
- St. George’s Market: Wander through the vibrant stalls of St. George’s Market. From local crafts to delectable treats, this market offers a snapshot of Belfast’s diverse culture.
- Street Art: Explore the streets and discover captivating murals that depict the city’s political history and cultural resilience.
- Chinese Zen Restaurant: This restaurant offers a fusion of flavors, providing a delightful dining experience in the heart of Belfast.
- Temple Bar District: Conclude the day with a stroll through the lively Temple Bar district. Lined with pubs, restaurants, and boutiques, it’s the perfect place to soak in Belfast’s vibes.
Day 6 & 7 : Belfast to Dublin
Originally, we planned to go back and forth from Belfast, but with an upcoming trip to another country, we decided to switch things up. After returning our rental car, we took a convenient bus to Dublin for a few days of adventure.
Some City Highlights:
- Trinity College: Dublin’s historic academic hub, home to the famed Book of Kells and a prestigious library.
- National Gallery: Dive into European art at the National Gallery, showcasing centuries of artistic brilliance.
- St. Stephen’s Green: Dublin’s serene oasis, offering lush greenery and tranquility in the heart of the city.
- Powerscourt Town Centre: Shop in elegance at Powerscourt Town Centre, a blend of boutiques and cafes.
- The Long Hall: Immerse in Irish pub culture at The Long Hall, an iconic Dublin pub with a rich history.
- Dublin Castle: Explore Dublin’s regal past at Dublin Castle, featuring opulent State Apartments and rich historical significance.
- Garden of Remembrance: Pay respects at the poignant Garden of Remembrance, a memorial honoring Ireland’s independence heroes.
- Chester Beatty Library: Discover cultural treasures at the Chester Beatty Library, home to manuscripts and artifacts from around the world.
- Temple Bar District: Conclude your day in the lively Temple Bar district, known for vibrant nightlife, pubs, and live music.
Although we only had a day and a half there, staying longer is highly recommended if you want to explore the city to its fullest.
Important Ireland Bus Information:
Be aware that Intercity bus tickets in Ireland are often sold on a first-come, first-served basis, even for pre-purchased tickets. To ensure you secure your seat, arrive at the bus stop EARLY. The driver will sell your ticket to another passenger and leave you behind (yes I am talking from experience).
End of the 1 Week Ireland Roadtrip
On the seventh day, we spent the morning walking around the neighborhoods of Dublin. In the afternoon, we took a flight to Oslo, marking the end of our Irish journey.
Ireland’s magic awaits! This 1 week Ireland travel blog offers a glimpse into the country’s stunning scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the dramatic coastlines to the rolling green hills, each day promises a new adventure.
Ready to embark on your own Irish odyssey? Customize this itinerary to suit your interests, explore hidden gems off the beaten path, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Start planning your dream trip to Ireland today!
