Complete 5 Day Ireland Road Trip: The Best Of The West Coast
Planning a 5 day Ireland road trip itinerary can feel overwhelming because there is so much to see, but I promise it’s one of the best ways to experience the country. I put this route together after taking my own Ireland trip, which ended up being one of my favorite road trips I’ve ever done.
We spent four nights exploring small towns, dramatic cliffs, rural roads, and some of the most beautiful stretches of coastline I’ve ever seen. It was a full trip, but it gave me such a good sense of what makes Ireland special.
Most travelers think they need two weeks to road trip Ireland, but you can still see so much with five days. The key is choosing one region and letting the slower moments guide your trip. That’s exactly what inspired this itinerary.
We based ourselves in Galway and Killarney, took scenic drives up the coast, ate incredible seafood, wandered through tiny villages, and spent a full day on the Ring of Kerry. Each day felt different, which is exactly why I loved this route so much.
In this guide you’ll find major highlights, quiet scenic stops, and a few of my favorite food recommendations along the way. If you want a road trip that mixes iconic sights with hidden corners, this 5-day itinerary is the perfect way to explore Ireland’s west coast.
Happy travels to Ireland!
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Are Five Days Enough In Ireland?
The short answer? It can be, but it depends. Five days is enough for a great trip, but it’s not enough to see the entire island unless you want to spend most of your vacation in the car. With a 5 day Ireland road trip itinerary, the key is narrowing your focus to one, small region. This lets you actually enjoy the scenery, small towns, and coastline instead of rushing from place to place.
I took a quick trip to Ireland with the same road trip itinerary, and I felt like I saw a lot. It was a full trip with long days, but it still gave me a great sense of the country.
Best Time To Visit Ireland
Ireland is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is late spring through early fall. May, June, and September offer mild weather, long daylight hours, and fewer crowds than July and August. These months also give you the best chance of clear skies for coastal drives and castle stops.
Plus, the shoulder season allows you to visit Ireland for less. Prices on hotels and rental cars tend to drop, which helps stretch your budget without sacrificing good weather.
Winter can be cozy and quiet, but the days are short and many attractions run limited hours. If you want a smoother 5 day Ireland road trip itinerary, stick with late spring or early fall. You’ll get better weather, easier driving conditions, and more time to enjoy the landscapes that make Ireland so special.
Renting A Car In Ireland
Renting a car is the best way to follow a 5 day Ireland road trip itinerary, but you want to book with a reputable company. The roads can be narrow, and driving on the lefthand side takes some adjustment. A trusted company makes the experience smoother, especially if it’s your first time driving in Ireland.
We chose to rent our car with Enterprise. We’ve always had a good experience renting with them as they don’t look for every imperfection that other car companies might do. For me, it’s always been worth a bit more.
Want to Save More on Your Rental Car? Before you book, read my quick guide on saving money on rental cars.
You can save money by booking early or booking last-minute when prices drop. I like to reserve a car, check the rate each week, and rebook if the price falls. Most rentals start at Dublin Airport, which has the largest selection of companies. It makes it easier to leave the airport and head right into your road trip, too.
It’s also smart to pay with a travel rewards card that offers primary rental car coverage. This can save you money on the insurance options at the counter. And give you peace of mine if something is to happen to the car, too.
My Honest Experience Driving In Ireland
Visiting Ireland on a road trip by far the best way to visit, but it did take some getting used to.
When heading west my biggest struggle was getting used to driving on the left. But with enough cars on the road it’s easy enough to just follow along.
However, things changed once we got to western Ireland. The roads were still well maintained, but they were much narrower. In many rural areas the overgrowth reached out toward the road, and that created tight spots and many blind turns. Oftentimes these roads were one lane but there was traffic coming in both directions.
I often slowed down to ease around corners and let other drivers pass. (The locals drive these roads like no one else is sharing them.) But because you have to drive more cautiously, Google Maps estimates became way off. Personally, I was never comfortable going the speed limit on these country roads.
All to say, it wasn’t hard, but it required patience and focus. The scenery made it worth it, though, because some of the most beautiful parts of Ireland are on those smaller roads.
Complete 5 Day Ireland Road Trip Itinerary
This 5 day Ireland road trip itinerary is based on my own trip, and I absolutely loved it. It’s one of the few trips I have no notes about. Yes, it’s fast. But what 5-day road trip isn’t?
You’ll explore Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way through small towns, major attractions, and some truly great Irish food. It’s the perfect plan for travelers who want an authentic and easy road trip experience.
Day 1: Dublin to Galway
Welcome to Ireland. Your trip will likely start at Dublin Airport, and from here the drive to Galway is simple. It takes a little under two and a half hours and follows one main Motorway across the island. It’s not the scenic part of the trip, but don’t worry. We’ll get plenty of that in the next few days. Today is about getting to your first stop and easing into your 5 day Ireland road trip itinerary.
Check in to your hotel in Galway. (I have a great list of places below but my top choice is The Twelve Hotel.) Galway is known as Ireland’s cultural hub, and you’ll feel that energy right away. It’s lively, colorful, and still has that small-town charm that makes it so easy to love.
How To Spend Your Afternoon In Galway
Galway doesn’t have a big list of “must-see” attractions, but that’s part of the appeal. It’s a great base for exploring the west, and it’s the perfect place to settle in after a travel day. Take your time, wander a bit, and soak up the heart of the city.
One thing I love about Galway is how walkable it is. You can explore on your own or join a guided walking tour. Experience Galway’s walking tour is a great intro to the city, and it’s under twenty dollars per person, which is honestly a steal.
If you want something a little more filling, their Irish food and history walking tour is such a fun pick. You’ll sip a Guinness, try local classics, and learn about the city’s past.
You can also skip the tours and wander. Be sure to check out the Spanish Arch and Galway Cathedral if you do. The Spanish Arch itself is a bit underwhelming but it’s a good place to start walking town.
For dinner, McDonagh’s is the spot for classic fish and chips. If you want an Irish pub vibe with live music, try The Front Door Pub. It’s packed with locals and visitors, and the portions are big. My husband and I found we could have shared most meals on this trip.
Where To Stay In Galway
Just a note: hotels just outside of Galway oftentimes have easier, free parking and are much cheaper than staying in Galway.
The Twelve Hotel ($$) My Top Choice!
A boutique stay in Barna with a cozy, artsy vibe and quick access to Galway’s coastline and nearby restaurants.
Hyde Hotel ($$$)
A stylish, modern hotel in the heart of Galway with bright rooms and an easy walk to everywhere you’ll want to explore.
Clayton Hotel Galway ($$)
A comfortable hotel just outside the city center that’s great for parking, easy access to the highway, and spacious rooms.
Day 2: Connemara
Start your morning with a quick coffee before jumping into your rental car and heading north. For coffee in Galway try Fairhill Coffee.
Leave by 9 AM to make it in time for your oyster tour at DK Oysters. The drive alone is worth the early start. The road winds through quiet valleys, open fields, and rugged hills, and every few minutes the landscape changes in that dramatic west Ireland way.
It feels wild and wide open, and it sets the perfect tone for the day.
DK Oysters is well off the beaten path and was one of my favorite activities from this trip. Here you’ll learn about the time-intensive and physical work that goes into oyster farming.
You’ll see every step of the process and taste some of the freshest oysters you’ll find in Ireland. Tickets are priced best when you book directly on their website.
After your tour, head into town for lunch at Veldon’s Seafarer Bar and Restaurant. Their menu is full of Irish classics, but I recommend the seafood stew. It’s perfect on a cold and damp Ireland day. (And let’s be honest, there are plenty of those.)
Afternoon
After lunch, you have two great nearby options, and you can do both if time allows. First, visit the Killary Sheep Farm. You can watch an incredible sheepdog demonstration or choose the larger seasonal farm tour. It’s a fun way to see rural life up close.
Or head to Kylemore Abbey. The grounds are absolutely stunning, especially with the mountains behind the lake. The Abbey itself is interesting, but I found the experience inside a little underwhelming for the price. Still, the setting alone is worth the stop if you’re already nearby.
Once you finish exploring, start making your way back toward the city. If you’re feeling up for a longer drive, you can head south to stay in Lahinch. Staying there puts you much closer to the Cliffs of Moher tomorrow. If not, staying in Galway is totally fine. You’ll just need an earlier start to beat the bus crowds.
Day 3: Cliffs of Moher
Today is all about one of Ireland’s most iconic sights. Start your morning at the Cliffs of Moher, and trust me, you want the earliest entry time.
Hours vary with the season, but it’s usually either 8 AM or 9 AM. Book the first slot. It’s the best way to beat the buses and enjoy the cliffs in the quiet morning light.
The views here are unreal. The cliffs stretch for miles along the Atlantic, and the soft morning light gives the water a silvery glow. Take your time walking the paths. Each viewpoint feels different, and it never gets old.
After your visit, drive fifteen minutes to the Burren Smokehouse. This spot is a dream if you love smoked salmon. You can try samples, learn about their smoking process in their small museum, and pick up a few things to bring along. It’s quick, delicious, and the family who runs it are lovely, too.
For lunch, head to Hugo’s in Lahinch. This was a local recommendation and I still think about how amazing the sandwiches were. I got the goat cheese and roasted tomato sandwich and I still crave another one almost every day!
Afternoon
After lunch, begin driving south and catch the car ferry across the Shannon Estuary. Locals told us it saves almost an hour, and they were right. Google Maps won’t show this route, so be sure to plug in the Killimer Ferry Terminal. The ride is short, peaceful, and adds a fun coastal moment to the day.
Depending on timing, you can stop at the Tralee Bay Wetlands after you cross the estuary. The wetlands offer walking paths, a viewing tower, and a calm place to stretch your legs. It’s a quick stop and easy to add if you want something low-key.
By late afternoon or early evening, you’ll arrive in Killarney. It’s a lively town and makes the perfect base for the next part of your 5 day Ireland road trip.
For dinner, try Murphy’s Bar. It’s a favorite with both locals and tourists. If it’s too busy, The Laurels Pub and Restaurant is another great choice.
Where To Stay In Killarney
Killarney Glamping at the Grove ($)
A cozy glamping spot just outside town that gives you a fun, scenic stay without sacrificing comfort.
Abbey Lodge ($)
A simple, central guesthouse that’s an easy walk to downtown and perfect for budget-friendly travelers.
Cahernane House Hotel ($$)
A charming historic property on the edge of Killarney National Park with quiet surroundings and beautiful interiors.
The Lake Hotel ($$$)
A lakeside hotel with stunning views of Lough Lein and a classic, upscale feel for a more luxurious night.
Day 4: Ring of Kerry
Today you’ll drive the famous Ring of Kerry, one of the most scenic road trips in Ireland. The loop starts in Killarney and takes you through mountains, lakes, beaches, small towns, and some of the most dramatic coastal views in the country. It’s a full-day adventure, so start early.
Want the full Ring of Kerry one day itinerary? There’s a lot more to know about visiting the Ring of Kerry. Find all the details on my complete itinerary.
The first stretch takes you through Killarney National Park. You’ll pass by places like Ross Castle, Muckross Abbey, and the beautiful lake views near Ladies View. You could spend an entire day in the park, but for this itinerary, you’ll take in the highlights.
From here the views get even better. You’ll wind through mountain passes and rural valleys before reaching the colorful town of Kenmare. It’s a great spot for a quick coffee, a bakery stop, or a short walk through the center. The town is small but charming, and the shops are worth a browse if you have time.
As you continue along the Ring, make room for a few must-sees. Derrynane Beach is one of the best beaches in Ireland, with turquoise water and soft sand. The drive to the beach is tight and narrow, but the views are worth it.
Afternoon On The Ring Of Kerry
If you prefer something even more dramatic, detour onto the Skellig Ring to see the Kerry Cliffs. The cliffs rise high above the Atlantic and are far less crowded than the Cliffs of Moher. You’ll feel like you have the coastline to yourself.
I highly recommend you take this detour; it was one of my favorite parts of the day!
If time allows, you can explore Valentia Island or stop in Portmagee for fresh seafood. Both are quick detours and give you a closer look at small coastal life in this part of Ireland. Just a note: if you head to Valentina it’s easier and quicker to take the ferry back to the main road.
The full loop takes most travelers eight to nine hours with stops. The roads are narrow, and you’ll share them with tour buses, so drive slowly and stay alert.
But the drive is well worth it. The scenery is incredible, and the freedom to pull over when something catches your eye is what makes this drive special.
Want the full list of stops? See my complete Ring of Kerry one-day itinerary for every viewpoint, detour, and attraction.
Once you finish the loop, head to Cork for the evening.
Where To Stay in Cork
The River Lee Hotel ($$$)
A polished, riverside hotel with bright rooms, great views, and easy access to Cork’s city center.
Commodore Hotel ($)
A budget-friendly spot with simple rooms and a great location near the harbor.
Talbot Hotel Cork ($$)
A comfortable midrange hotel with spacious rooms and quick access to Cork Airport and major road connections.
Day 5: Jameson and Blarney Castle
Today you’ll start making your way back toward Dublin Airport, which is about two and a half hours from Cork. If your flight leaves later in the day, you can squeeze in one or two final stops before you head out.
If you love Irish whiskey, visit the Midleton Distillery, the home of Jameson. The grounds are beautiful, and the tours give you a look at Ireland’s most famous distilling process.
You can taste a few pours and learn about the history behind one of Ireland’s biggest whiskey brands. It’s a great stop if you want one more classic Irish experience. Plus, you even receive a small cocktail at the end of your tour!
Another popular choice is Blarney Castle. The castle is impressive, and the grounds are even better. You can explore the gardens, walk the trails, and, if you want, climb to the top to kiss the Blarney Stone. It’s busy during peak hours, so arrive early if possible.
Personally, if I had to choose I’d go with Midleton Distillery. You’ll pass and wander many castle during your road trip but Midleton is such a unique experience. It’s well worth it!
After your visit, start the drive back to Dublin Airport. Give yourself plenty of time for traffic, returning the rental car, and getting through security.
Once you’re checked in, you can look back on an incredible Ireland itinerary filled with cliffs, coastal drives, and some of Ireland’s most beautiful towns.
Other Route Options + Add-Ons
If the west coast isn’t the route you want for your 5 day Ireland road trip itinerary, here are a few other great ways to explore the country. These regions are just as scenic and give you a very different look at Ireland’s landscapes and culture.
Ireland’s North Coast
The north offers rugged cliffs, quiet coastal towns, and some of the most dramatic scenery in the country. This route can include the Giant’s Causeway, the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, Dunluce Castle, and the Causeway Coastal Route.
It’s perfect if you love big ocean views, ancient history, and long wild drives along the water.
Ireland’s South Coast
The south is colorful, charming, and packed with food, small villages, and soft coastal scenery. You can explore towns like Kinsale, Cobh, and Dingle, visit Blarney Castle, or follow the beaches and coves along the southern shoreline.
It’s a great choice if you want a mix of culture, harbors, and easy coastal drives.
The Dingle Peninsula
The Dingle Peninsula is one of Ireland’s most loved regions, known for winding coastal roads, cute villages, and sweeping Atlantic views. You can explore Slea Head Drive, take in the rugged cliffs, and enjoy time in Dingle town.
It’s ideal if you want a slower, more relaxed coastal route with postcard-perfect scenery.
I was between visiting the Dingle Peninsula or the Ring of Kerry on my own road trip. I chose the Ring of Kerry because I thought there were more attractions along the route, but the Dingle Peninsula is also an excellent choice!
Tips For Visiting Ireland On A Road Trip
Before my own Ireland road trip, there were a few things I really wish I had known. These simple tips would have made planning easier and helped me feel more prepared for the roads, the weather, and the pace of each day. Here are the things that made the biggest difference once I was on the ground.
Start your days early.
Many attractions open around 8–10 AM, and early starts help you stay ahead of tour buses and crowds.
Book rental cars with care.
Ireland has narrow roads, especially in the west. Use a reputable company and pay with a travel rewards card that offers primary rental car coverage.
Expect slow, scenic drives.
Some of the best views are on back roads. Drive slowly, stay alert, and don’t rush the experience.
Fuel up before rural drives.
Gas stations are limited outside major towns, so start each day with a full tank.
Pack for every kind of weather.
Ireland can be sunny, windy, rainy, and chilly in the same hour. Layers make the trip more comfortable.
Be ready for early closing times.
Many restaurants and shops close earlier than you might expect. Plan meals and grocery stops ahead.
Have offline maps downloaded.
Rural areas can have weak cell service. Offline maps make navigating easier, especially on back roads.
Plan must-see stops but stay flexible.
Ireland is full of small surprises. Leave space in your schedule for spontaneous viewpoints, detours, and small villages.
Use the ferry when it makes sense.
Short ferries, like the Shannon Estuary route, can save almost an hour and break up long drives.
Five Day Ireland Road Trip FAQs
Yes, you can drive across Ireland in a day. The main highways make crossings fast, like the 2.5 hour drive from Dublin to Galway. But those routes are direct and not very scenic. The best views and small towns are on the back roads, so the “crossing” itself is easy, but the scenic road-tripping part takes more time.
Most travelers feel comfortable driving two to four hours per day on an Ireland road trip. The good news is that this time is usually broken up with viewpoints, small towns, and scenic stops, so it rarely feels like one long stretch in the car. A few days might run longer, but keeping the main driving to a manageable window makes the trip easy and enjoyable.
More Ireland Tips + Inspiration
- There are plenty of ways to save in Ireland with my Ireland on a budget guide.
- The Ring of Kerry is a must-do on any Irish road trip! Be sure to check out my complete 1-day itinerary, which has tons of extra trips for visiting.
- Is Dublin on your list? I’ve got you covered with this Dublin 2-day itinerary.
- Packing for Ireland can be super challenging, so be sure to use my fall packing guide to help.
- Should you visit the Kerry Cliffs or the Cliffs of Moher? I’ve got a guide to help you decide.
