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Road Trips in Ireland

Ireland is a country with a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a road trip. With its rolling green hills, rugged coastlines, and historic cities, Ireland offers a diverse range of landscapes and experiences for travelers.

One of the highlights of a road trip in Ireland is the opportunity to explore its breathtaking natural beauty. From the rolling green hills of the countryside to the dramatic cliffs of the coast, Ireland is dotted with breathtaking landscapes that are best experienced from behind the wheel of a car. With quiet roads that wind through picturesque villages and past rolling hills, a road trip in Ireland provides a peaceful and immersive experience that allows you to fully connect with the beauty of the country.

Ireland is also home to a rich cultural heritage that is best experienced through its historic cities and villages. A road trip in Ireland offers the opportunity to explore the country's fascinating history, from the ancient ruins of the Celtic period to the elegant Georgian architecture of Dublin. The country is also home to many traditional festivals and events, such as the lively pubs and street musicians of Dublin, the rolling hills of the countryside dotted with thatched-roof cottages, and the quaint fishing villages along the coast.

In addition to its rich cultural heritage, Ireland is renowned for its friendly people, warm hospitality, and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you are exploring the country on your own or with a group of friends, you are sure to be greeted with a smile and a friendly conversation wherever you go. Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled road trip, Ireland offers something for everyone.

Another reason to take a road trip in Ireland is the opportunity to sample the country's delicious cuisine. From traditional Irish stews and hearty meals to fresh seafood and locally brewed beers, Ireland has a rich culinary heritage that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning of palates. With its focus on fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, Ireland's cuisine is a true reflection of its cultural heritage and the country's connection to the land.

In conclusion, Ireland is a country that offers a wealth of experiences for travelers, from its stunning natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage, friendly people, and delicious cuisine. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, a road trip in Ireland is sure to provide a unique and unforgettable experience.

Expect on your itinerary

Value Value
Historical sites Historical sites
Landscape Landscape
Nature Nature
Shopping Shopping
Benefit-stress ratio Benefit-stress ratio
Urban life Urban life
Security Security

Best months to drive

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Discover Road Trips in Ireland

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Wild Atlantic Road Trip Wild Atlantic Road Trip
Wild Atlantic Road Trip
1,812 km 42 km/h 14 days roadtrip
Ireland Road Trip Ireland Road Trip
Ireland Road Trip
1,256 km 58 km/h 12 days roadtrip
Entire Ireland Road Trip Entire Ireland Road Trip
Entire Ireland Road Trip
1,733 km 64 km/h 12 days roadtrip
Dublin Getaway Drive Dublin Getaway Drive
Dublin Getaway Drive
156 km 39 km/h 1 days scenic

Road Trip Highlights 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:

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.

Car Rentals in Ireland

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. 

Roads in Ireland

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!

Ireland: road safety

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. 

Speed limits in Ireland

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

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

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.

Best Time for taking a Road Trip in Ireland

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.

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.

How expensive is a Road Trip in Ireland

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.

Guidebooks and Road Maps for Road Trip in Ireland

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

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.

Good Reads before taking a Road Trip in Ireland

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:

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.

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