Ultimate Ireland Road Trip Itinerary: Top Tips for Driving from Shannon to Dublin

Chasing Castles & Cliffs

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"If you're flying into Shannon International Airport and planning a southwest-to-north adventure through Ireland and Northern Ireland, here’s my tried-and-tested itinerary"

Ireland is a dream destination for road trippers, offering breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and historic sites at every turn. If you're flying into Shannon International Airport and planning a southwest-to-north adventure through Ireland and Northern Ireland, here’s my tried-and-tested itinerary—plus essential tips to make your journey unforgettable.

First Stop: Adare – The Cutest Village in Ireland

Just a short drive from Shannon, the picturesque town of Adare is the perfect introduction to Ireland. With its thatched-roof cottages, medieval ruins, and cozy pubs, it’s no wonder this village was voted the most charming in Ireland. Stop for a coffee or a quick stroll before continuing your journey.

Basecamp: Killarney & the Ring of Kerry

Plan to spend at least a few nights in or around Killarney, a fantastic hub for exploring County Kerry’s top attractions:

- Killarney National Park – Wander through serene forests, spot wild deer, and visit Muckross House & Gardens.

- Dingle Peninsula – Take a scenic boat ride in Dingle Bay, explore the colorful town of Dingle, and enjoy a pint of Guinness with fresh seafood.

- The Ring of Kerry – This iconic coastal drive features rolling green hills, dramatic cliffs, and ancient castles. Don’t miss the Skellig Ring extension, where you’ll find even more stunning cliffs (some say they rival the Cliffs of Moher!).

A Night in a Castle (Because Why Not?)

If your budget allows, splurge on a castle stay—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. My wife (a self-proclaimed princess) insisted, and it was worth every penny for the ambiance and history.

Crossing into Northern Ireland

As you head north, you’ll enter Northern Ireland (UK), where you can explore:

- The Dark Hedges – A hauntingly beautiful tree-lined road (famous from Game of Thrones).

- Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge – A thrilling (and wobbly!) walk to a tiny island with incredible coastal views.

- Giant’s Causeway – The star attraction: 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns rising from the sea. A must-see natural wonder!

Final Stop: Dublin & Temple Bar

End your trip with at least one night in Dublin, especially in the lively Temple Bar district. Enjoy live music, great pubs, and a final toast to an epic road trip.

Essential Ireland Road Trip Tips

1. Narrow Roads – Irish lanes are tiny! If you’re not used to tight squeezes, make sure someone in your group is confident behind the wheel.

2. Weather-Proof Gear – Ireland is famously unpredictable. Pack a wide-brimmed hat, waterproof layers, and comfortable walking shoes.

3. Bring a Drone (If You Can) – The aerial views of Ireland’s landscapes and castles are next-level stunning.

4. Drive on the Left – Remember, Ireland follows left-side driving—stay alert!

Ireland is best explored by car, giving you the freedom to discover hidden gems at your own pace. Now that you’re equipped with these tips, it’s time to start planning your own Irish adventure!

To customize your own Ireland Road Trip Itinerary, you may enjoy checking websites such as Expedia and Hotels.com to find the perfect place to stay, and Viator to find even more Ireland activities.

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