Planning a road trip from Dublin to Galway? Here's a quick guide to help you enjoy 7 days of Ireland's best sights, from historic landmarks to stunning coastal views. This itinerary combines must-visit stops, practical tips, and travel advice to make your journey smooth and memorable.
Key Highlights:
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Route: Dublin → Kilkenny → Cork → Killarney → Galway (via Cliffs of Moher)
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Duration: 7 days
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Top Stops: Trinity College, Kilkenny Castle, Rock of Cashel, Ring of Kerry, Cliffs of Moher, Galway's Latin Quarter
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Best Travel Seasons: May, September, October (mild weather, fewer crowds)
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Essentials: Cash for tolls, rain gear, and a valid driver’s license for left-side driving.
Quick Tips:
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Driving: Rent a car from Dublin Airport.
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Fuel Costs: Around $6.61 per gallon.
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Weather: Be prepared for rain, even in spring and summer.
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What to Pack: Rain jacket, waterproof boots, and a universal adapter (230V, type G).
This 7-day itinerary covers Ireland’s vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes, and iconic landmarks. Whether you're exploring Dublin's history, kissing the Blarney Stone, or marveling at the Cliffs of Moher, this guide has you covered. Let’s hit the road!
7-Day Route Plan
Day 1: Dublin City Guide
Kick off your trip at Trinity College at 9:00 AM to see the iconic Book of Kells and the stunning Long Room Library. Next, head to St. Patrick's Cathedral before grabbing lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Guinness Storehouse to learn about Ireland's famous stout. Wrap up your day in the lively Temple Bar District, known for its traditional music and delicious local food. Afterward, prepare to venture beyond Dublin for even more history and charm.
Day 2: Dublin to Kilkenny Drive
Leave Dublin at 9:00 AM and enjoy a 1.5-hour drive to Kilkenny. Once there, explore Kilkenny Castle and its beautiful gardens, soaking in the town's medieval atmosphere.
Day 3: Kilkenny to Cork Route
Start your day at the Rock of Cashel, arriving by 10:00 AM to admire its fascinating history and architecture. Then, head to Cork, a city buzzing with energy. The drive takes about 2 hours (roughly 100 miles).
Day 4: Cork to Killarney Trip
Begin your morning at Blarney Castle to kiss the famous Blarney Stone for good luck. Afterward, take a scenic coastal drive to Killarney. Spend your afternoon exploring Killarney National Park, a perfect spot for nature lovers. Rest up for the next day's adventure on the Ring of Kerry.
Day 5: Ring of Kerry Drive
Dedicate the entire day to driving the Ring of Kerry, a stunning loop filled with breathtaking views. The drive usually takes 6 to 7 hours, with plenty of stops to admire the dramatic scenery.
"The Ring of Kerry Drive will be the highlight for many that follow this 7 days in Ireland itinerary." - Keith O'Hara, The Irish Road Trip
Day 6: Killarney to Galway Journey
Leave early to beat the midday crowds at the Cliffs of Moher, one of Ireland's most awe-inspiring natural landmarks. From there, travel through the rugged Burren landscape on your way to Galway. The drive takes about 4 hours (around 180 miles). Once in Galway, check into a centrally located spot in the city.
Day 7: Galway City and Islands
End your week by exploring Galway's Latin Quarter and the Spanish Arch in the morning. If you have time, take a day trip through Connemara to visit Kylemore Abbey. For a memorable finale, drive along the 12-mile Sky Road, offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean.
How to travel IRELAND (7 DAY ROAD TRIP ITINERARY)
Travel Tips and Planning
Once your itinerary is ready, it’s time to dive into the practical details of your trip.
Rental Cars and Road Rules
If you're used to driving on the right side of the road, get ready to switch to the left in Ireland. Here’s a quick look at rental car costs from Dublin Airport: a 7-day economy manual typically costs $380‑$435, while an automatic SUV ranges from $690‑$695. (Without insurance)
Keep these driving rules in mind:
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Speed limits: 120 km/h (about 75 mph) on motorways, 100 km/h (about 62 mph) on national roads
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No phone use: Holding a mobile phone while driving is strictly forbidden
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Alcohol limit: Blood alcohol limit is 50 mg per 100 ml
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Seat belts: Everyone in the car must wear one
Once you’ve booked your rental, it’s smart to plan for other driving-related expenses.
Cost Planning
Factor in fuel and toll costs. Gas prices in Ireland hover around $6.61 per gallon (about €1.75 per liter). Also, check your rental company’s toll policy ahead of time to avoid surprises.
What to Pack
Packing for Ireland means preparing for its famously unpredictable weather. Essentials include a sturdy rain jacket and waterproof hiking boots - break them in before your trip to avoid discomfort. Don’t forget your tech gear, especially for long days on the road.
Here are some must-have items for your trip:
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A universal power adapter (Ireland uses 230V and type G outlets)
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A portable power bank for your devices
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A waterproof phone case
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An anti-theft daypack with USB charging
With these tips and gear, you’ll be ready to hit the road and enjoy your Irish adventure.
Trip Summary
Here's a quick overview of your journey, covering key highlights and essential planning tips.
Main Points
Your trip from Dublin to Galway will take you through lively cities, historic landmarks, and breathtaking coastal views.
Break your journey into three main sections:
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Eastern Hub: Start your adventure in Dublin, Ireland's bustling capital.
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Southern Circuit: Explore Ireland's historic heart by visiting Kilkenny and Cork.
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Western Finale: Wrap up your trip in Galway, with its stunning Atlantic coastline.
Don't forget to budget for fuel and tolls along the way.
Planning Tools
Make your planning easier with these handy digital tools:
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IrishGetaways.com: Find county-specific travel guides, detailed road trip routes, accommodation options, and local tips.
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Google Maps: Download offline maps to stay on track, even in areas with limited connectivity.
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Met Éireann: Check the local weather forecast to plan your days.
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Transport for Ireland: Get real-time updates on traffic and toll information.
Before you hit the road, download these apps using Wi-Fi and pack a universal adapter (230V, type G) to keep your devices charged.
