Road Trips in Ireland

Even though Ireland's capital is one of the most popular places in the country, you shouldn't limit yourselves only to visiting Dublin. It's worth taking a magical trip to Galway or the nearby Connemara, following the path of the most impressive castles and fortresses. On this almost 210-kilometre trail, you will have an opportunity to see many examples of such medieval constructions. It will also be a great chance to take stunning photos and experience breathtaking views. 

The western part of Ireland can boast numerous interesting highlights, including a medieval complex, Rock of Cashel, and a tourist route, Ring of Kerry. Also, you can't really miss the well-known Boyne Valley dotted with monuments commemorating the most important events from the country's history. You'll find here passage tombs, created several hundred years before the Egyptian Pyramids, and the Hill of Slane, where St Patrick started Christianity in Ireland. 

There's no time for boredom on the Green Island. It's worth entertaining yourself a little bit in between the sightseeing trips. The fans of water sports, golf, and sunbathing will find their small paradise in Spanish Point. Those who are into natural landscapes should visit Dingle Peninsula, located in County Kerry, where they will have an opportunity to enjoy the pristine environment and watch animals grazing on the pastures. Your must-see list should also include the charming Mallow town located at the intersection of Killarney-Waterford (N72) and Cork-Limerick (N20).

Tired of sightseeing around Irish monuments? Take a breath and head towards the picturesque Glendalough Valley. Thanks to a range of specially marked trails of varying difficulty, it is a perfect option for all the fans of trekking. Since Ireland is a country of contrasts, it can also boast rugged landscapes. An ideal example is the Burren Plateau whose topography is reminiscent of the lunar surface. 

Suggested Road Trips in Ireland

Ireland is known for its stunning landscapes, historic cities, and friendly people, making it an ideal destination for a road trip. Here are three of the best road trips to consider in Ireland:

• The Wild Atlantic Way: This scenic route takes you along the western coast of Ireland, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged Irish countryside. Highlights of this road trip include the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Dingle Peninsula, as well as charming villages and historic sites along the way.

• The Ring of Beara: This scenic loop takes you through the rolling hills and rugged coastline of the Beara Peninsula in southwestern Ireland. With its quiet roads, scenic views, and charming villages, this road trip offers a peaceful escape from the busy tourist crowds, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Irish countryside.

• The Ring of Kerry: Driving this 179 km long scenic loop is unforgettable experience

Regardless of which road trip you choose, a road trip in Ireland is an opportunity to explore the country's rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, as well as to meet its friendly people and sample its delicious cuisine. With its winding roads, breathtaking landscapes, and charming villages, a road trip in Ireland is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

Ireland offers a wide choice of car rental companies - especially at the airports. Thus, you won't have any problems in finding a vehicle that will live up to your expectations and that will be adjusted to the requirements of the Irish roads. 

In order to freely move around Ireland, you'll need a valid ID/passport and driver's licence that was issued in one of the EU Member States. Renting a car in Ireland is possible if you are 25 years old and have a two-year experience on the road. Some car hire companies can follow their own rules so it's worth familiarising yourself with them beforehand so that you avoid disappointment. 

The first thing to be remembered is the fact that the Green Island follows left-hand traffic. Initial moments behind the wheel may turn out to be a real challenge, but it's enough to stay cautious and follow traffic rules to make your trip easy and pleasant. 

The state of Irish roads isn't perfect, but driving around the country is pretty comfortable. The situation changes when you decide to choose side streets and less frequented roads which are usually narrow and poorly marked. Remember to be extra cautious since other motorists and animals that can suddenly appear in front of your vehicle may become an additional risk factor. 

Ireland has a number of toll roads, tunnels, and bridges, and failing to pay the toll is a traffic offence. Not following the regulations may result in a high penalty that can sometimes amount to €1270!

One of the most important issues while driving around Ireland is, of course, safety. Children below 12 years of age should be seated in car seats or in special seats adjusted to their height.

Each vehicle driving around the Green Island should have appropriate equipment. Among the obligatory items, you will find a warning triangle, a first aid kit, and a fire extinguisher. But what's important to remember is that it should be carried inside the vehicle and not in the trunk. It's also worth carrying a reflective vest and a set of spare bulbs. Lack of any of these items won't result in a ticket, but it's definitely worth carrying them in your car. 

The allowed alcohol limit is 50mg of alcohol per 100ml of blood. Exceeding this limit will result in a penalty payment and in a loss of driver's licence for 6 months!

While driving the vehicle, you mustn't use your mobile phone. This pleasure may cost you as much as €1000. In order to solve this problem, it's best to equip yourselves with a hands-free kit. 

In built-up areas, you can drive at a speed of 50 km/h. A greater leeway is allowed in rural areas, where you can drive as fast as 80 km/h, on expressways (100 km/h) and motorways (120 km/h). 

When taking a road trip in Ireland, it's important to be aware of the following things:

• Driving on the left side of the road: In Ireland, cars drive on the left side of the road, which can take some getting used to for travelers from countries where cars drive on the right. It's important to be extra cautious and aware of your surroundings when driving in Ireland, especially in unfamiliar areas.

• Narrow roads and tight turns: Many of the roads in Ireland, particularly in rural areas, are narrow and winding, with tight turns and steep inclines. It's important to drive slowly and carefully on these roads, especially if you are not familiar with the area.

• Sheep and other livestock on the road: Sheep and other livestock can often be found wandering on the roads in rural areas of Ireland, so it's important to be alert and watch for them, especially when driving at night.

• Weather conditions: Ireland's weather can be unpredictable, with sudden rain showers and strong winds being common. It's important to be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially when driving in rural areas where there is less shelter from the elements.

• Speed limits: The speed limit on roads in Ireland is typically 50 km/h in urban areas and 80 km/h on motorways, but these limits can vary in rural areas, so it's important to pay attention to road signs and drive at a safe and appropriate speed.

• Parking: Parking can be limited in some of Ireland's more popular tourist areas, especially during peak travel seasons. It's important to be aware of local parking regulations and to plan ahead to find a safe and convenient place to park your car.

By being aware of these things, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip in Ireland, surrounded by its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and friendly people.

The best time of the year for taking a road trip in Ireland depends on your personal preferences, but there are a few factors to consider.

• Summer (June to August): During the summer, the weather is typically warm and sunny, making it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so you may encounter more crowds in popular tourist areas.

• Spring (March to May): Spring is a good time for a road trip in Ireland, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists. This is also the time when many of the country's wildflowers are in bloom, making for a stunning landscape.

• Autumn (September to November): Autumn is a great time for a road trip in Ireland, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. This is also the time when the leaves begin to change color, providing a spectacular display of fall foliage.

• Winter (December to February): Winter can be a challenging time for a road trip in Ireland, with colder temperatures and the potential for inclement weather. However, this is also a quieter time of the year, with fewer tourists, making it a good choice if you're looking for a more peaceful experience.

Regardless of when you choose to take your road trip, be sure to bring appropriate clothing and be prepared for changing weather conditions. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and friendly people, a road trip in Ireland is an unforgettable experience at any time of the year.

Ireland is a beautiful country with a rich history, stunning landscapes, and charming cities. The cost of a road trip in Ireland can vary depending on the time of year, the type of accommodation, and the activities you choose to do. Here's a general idea of how much you can expect to spend on a day/week/month per person on a road trip in Ireland, including the cost of renting a car.

Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Ireland can range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. On average, you can expect to spend around €20-€30 per night per person for a hostel or budget hotel, while a mid-range hotel or B&B can cost around €70-€100 per night per person.

Food and Drink: The cost of food and drink in Ireland can also vary depending on where you eat and what you order. A basic pub meal can cost around €10-€15, while a mid-range restaurant can cost around €20-€30 per person for a meal. A pint of beer can cost around €5, and a cup of coffee can cost around €3.

Transportation: Renting a car is a popular option for a road trip in Ireland, and the cost can vary depending on the type of car and the duration of the rental. On average, you can expect to pay around €30-€50 per day for a small car, or €60-€100 per day for a larger car or SUV. You'll also need to factor in the cost of petrol, tolls, and parking.

Activities: Ireland has plenty of free activities to enjoy, such as hiking, exploring historic sites, and admiring the scenery. However, there are also plenty of paid activities, such as guided tours, museums, and attractions. On average, you can expect to pay around €10-€20 for admission to most attractions.

Overall, you can expect to spend around €50-€100 per day per person on a road trip in Ireland, depending on your travel style and preferences. For a week-long trip, the total cost per person can range from €350 to €700, while a month-long trip can cost around €1500 to €3000 per person. Keep in mind that these are just rough estimates, and the actual cost can vary depending on a variety of factors.

Here are some popular guidebooks and road maps for a road trip in Ireland:

• Lonely Planet Ireland: This guidebook covers all of Ireland, providing practical information and suggestions for exploring the country by car. It includes details on the main cities and regions, as well as recommendations for accommodations, dining, and activities.

• Rick Steves Ireland: This guidebook offers a detailed, personal perspective on traveling in Ireland, with tips on local culture, history, and customs. It includes information on the main tourist destinations, as well as off-the-beaten-path sites and scenic drives.

• Michelin Ireland Road Map: This detailed road map covers all of Ireland and includes information on major roads, highways, and scenic routes. It also includes a comprehensive index of cities and towns, along with points of interest such as historic sites, museums, and natural landmarks.

• AA Ireland Road Atlas: This is a comprehensive road atlas of Ireland, featuring detailed maps of all major cities, towns, and villages. It also includes information on the country's road network, along with a comprehensive index of streets and points of interest.

• Collins Ireland Road Map: This detailed road map covers all of Ireland and features detailed information on major roads, highways, and scenic routes. It also includes information on points of interest such as historic sites, museums, and natural landmarks.

Remember to choose guidebooks and maps that are up-to-date, easy to read, and provide detailed information about the areas you plan to visit. You may also want to consider downloading maps or using a GPS navigation app on your phone for added convenience.

If you're planning a road trip in Ireland, there are plenty of books that can help you prepare and get into the spirit of your journey. Here are some recommended reads:

• "Round Ireland with a Fridge" by Tony Hawks: This humorous travel memoir follows the author as he hitchhikes around Ireland with a mini-fridge, as a bet with a friend. It's a light and entertaining read that offers a glimpse into the quirks and charms of Irish culture.

• "The Road to McCarthy" by Pete McCarthy: This travel memoir is a humorous and heartwarming exploration of the author's journey through Ireland in search of his roots. It's a great introduction to Irish history, culture, and traditions.

• "Ireland" by Frank Delaney: This historical novel takes place over the course of a single day and tells the story of Ireland through the lives of a series of characters. It's a beautiful and immersive portrait of Irish life and culture.

• "The Wild Places" by Robert Macfarlane: While not strictly about Ireland, this book is a lyrical exploration of the natural world and the wild places that still exist in our increasingly urbanized world. It can provide inspiration for exploring the natural beauty of Ireland.

• "Dubliners" by James Joyce: This collection of short stories is set in Dublin and offers a vivid and intimate portrait of life in the city. It's a great way to get a sense of Dublin's history and culture and to appreciate the literary heritage of the country.

Whether you're looking for travel memoirs, historical novels, or classic literature, there are plenty of books that can enhance your experience of a road trip in Ireland.