Who this is for
Independent travellers who want a compact, self-drive taste of Ireland — plenty of scenic driving, short stops at pubs and ruins, and the freedom to linger when a view or a tune calls.
What the trip does
A five-day loop beginning and ending in Dublin. Head south to Cork, swing west across the Dingle Peninsula, follow the Atlantic coast past the Cliffs of Moher to Galway, then return to Dublin. The route uses well-signed national and regional roads and favors relaxed days over a packed timetable.
Practical basics
This guide sprinkles practical details throughout: typical driving times, suggested short stops, and quick tips for making the most of brief visits. It assumes you’re self-driving and want flexibility rather than a rigid schedule. Before you collect your rental car, confirm your licence is valid for Ireland and that your insurance and rental paperwork cover all drivers and any intended cross-border travel. Keep printed or digital copies of the rental contract, insurance certificate and ID in the car.
Get ready to start the loop with a loose agenda. Allow time for country-lane detours, roadside viewpoints and unexpected discoveries. Modest expectations and a little planning make the trip much more enjoyable for first-time self-drivers and seasoned road-trippers alike.
Day 1 — Dublin essentials, then south
Start early in Dublin to pick up a few highlights before you leave the city. Temple Bar buzzes at night with live music and street performers; during the day it’s also a lively place for people-watching. If you’re short on time, the Guinness Storehouse or the Jameson Distillery offer efficient, informative tours. A hop-on, hop-off bus is a quick way to see the city without too much walking, and a brisk loop down Grafton Street will give you snapshots of local life in under an hour.
If you want a quieter break before heading out, detour to Powerscourt Estate for tea and the gardens. Plan your afternoon drive on main roads to build confidence with left-hand driving and to keep the day unhurried — shorter drives reduce fatigue and leave room for unplanned stops.
Day 2 — Cork, Blarney and Waterford
Reach Cork in the morning and explore the compact centre and the English Market for local produce. If you’re visiting Blarney Castle, book an entry time to avoid queues and be ready for uneven paths and a fair number of steps. Waterford’s glassmaking demonstrations are engaging if you prefer something structured — again, it’s worth booking ahead.
Parking can be tight in small towns, so factor in a few extra minutes and carry a contactless card or change for parking meters. Outside the high season, opening hours may be shorter, so check attraction times before you travel.
If you prefer not to linger too long in Cork, set your course for the Dingle Peninsula. The coastal approach has frequent pull-offs for short walks and photos, but roads narrow in places and weather can change quickly. Finish the day with an overnight in Limerick, where a central hotel keeps transfers short and gives you flexibility for the next morning.
Day 3 — Dingle’s coast, then Limerick evenings
Spend the morning exploring the Dingle Peninsula — colourful harbour towns, dramatic headlands and welcoming pubs where traditional music often fills the room. When conditions are good, drive the Slea Head Drive for multiple photo stops and short walks. In the evening, head back to Limerick. The city offers medieval sites, riverside walks and a lively bar scene; consider a candlelit banquet at Bunratty Castle or a literary walking tour for something memorable.
What the trip does
A five-day loop beginning and ending in Dublin. Head south to Cork, swing west across the Dingle Peninsula, follow the Atlantic coast past the Cliffs of Moher to Galway, then return to Dublin. The route uses well-signed national and regional roads and favors relaxed days over a packed timetable.0
What the trip does
A five-day loop beginning and ending in Dublin. Head south to Cork, swing west across the Dingle Peninsula, follow the Atlantic coast past the Cliffs of Moher to Galway, then return to Dublin. The route uses well-signed national and regional roads and favors relaxed days over a packed timetable.1
What the trip does
A five-day loop beginning and ending in Dublin. Head south to Cork, swing west across the Dingle Peninsula, follow the Atlantic coast past the Cliffs of Moher to Galway, then return to Dublin. The route uses well-signed national and regional roads and favors relaxed days over a packed timetable.2
What the trip does
A five-day loop beginning and ending in Dublin. Head south to Cork, swing west across the Dingle Peninsula, follow the Atlantic coast past the Cliffs of Moher to Galway, then return to Dublin. The route uses well-signed national and regional roads and favors relaxed days over a packed timetable.3
What the trip does
A five-day loop beginning and ending in Dublin. Head south to Cork, swing west across the Dingle Peninsula, follow the Atlantic coast past the Cliffs of Moher to Galway, then return to Dublin. The route uses well-signed national and regional roads and favors relaxed days over a packed timetable.4
What the trip does
A five-day loop beginning and ending in Dublin. Head south to Cork, swing west across the Dingle Peninsula, follow the Atlantic coast past the Cliffs of Moher to Galway, then return to Dublin. The route uses well-signed national and regional roads and favors relaxed days over a packed timetable.5
What the trip does
A five-day loop beginning and ending in Dublin. Head south to Cork, swing west across the Dingle Peninsula, follow the Atlantic coast past the Cliffs of Moher to Galway, then return to Dublin. The route uses well-signed national and regional roads and favors relaxed days over a packed timetable.6