Irish Road Trip

Ireland: known for rural landscapes, mystery and myth. Legends of fairies, leprechauns, and giants are connected to — no, inseparable from — the sublime landscape. We’re here to tell you how you can create the best 7-day road trip in Ireland, visiting centuries’ old mythical locations while also witnessing current Irish culture.

Day 1 & 2 - Dublin. You’re first stop has to be Dublin; this vibrant city is packed with things to do. Some of our favorites: The Dun Lagohaire Farmer’s Market, Howth Head hiking trial, and St. Stephen’s Green, Trinity College & the Book of Kells (just to name a few). Dublin is oldest city in Dublin, and was established by Vikings. Visit Wood Quay and Christ Church Cathedral to see where Dublin had its humble beginnings.

Day 3- Belfast. After spending a couple days in Dublin, rent a car (or take a bus tour) up to Belfast for a day. Not only is Belfast a place of extreme historical significance, but it also is home to beautiful landscapes and folklore. The first place you’ll want to visit is Giant’s Causeway. This location is known for its natural basalt rocks stacked into almost-perfect hexagonal columns by the sea. The mythology behind this landscape? That Irish warrior (sometimes described as a giant) Finn McCool was challenged to fight the Scottish giant Benandonner. Finn accepts the challenge and builds the causeway across the North Channel so that the two giants can meet. What happens next? Who wins the fight? You’ll have to visit Giant’s Causeway to find out.

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you won’t want to miss your opportunity to stop at The Dark Hedges. The Dark Hedges is a mystical-looking avenue filled with beech trees, leading to an 18th century estate. This location has been widely popularized after being a primary filming location for the Game of Thrones. If you’re not into crowds, or haven’t seen the show, this might not be the place for you. Instead, you might want to visit Carrick-a-Rede. This beautiful sea-side landscape will take your breath away. If you’re up for an adventure, cross the swinging bridge from one cliff to the other. You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world, or if you’re afraid of heights, maybe a little bit queasy. Just kidding. But this is a place you won’t want to miss!

Day 4 & 5 - Connemara. Stepping away from the bustling city life in Dublin or Belfast, take a trip to a rural village in western Ireland called Connemara. Besides the astonishing views of the Atlantic ocean and loughs, Connemara has plenty of unforgettable activities, including Connemara National Park. If you love hiking, this is the place for you. Surrounded by mountains and bogs, heathlands and lakes, you won’t regret spending an afternoon exploring the Irish landscape. Another place to consider is Kylemore Abby. Founded as a monastery in the early 20th century, this fairy-tale-like castle is one of Ireland’s most iconic buildings. For a taste of local culture, go to the nearby town of Clifden in the evenings to grab some food from an Irish pub, and spend the night listening to traditional Irish music (or as it’s called, ‘trad’).

Day 6 & 7 - Cliffs of Moher / Galway. If you’re taking a trip to Ireland, you must see the Cliffs of Moher. If you have to, forget everything else we’ve mentioned. But don’t forget the Cliffs of Moher. Perhaps the most recognizable location in Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher depict the true beauty of nature. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, take a ferry out to the Aran Islands to see the most rustic Irish living that there is. The islands are characterized by legends, traditional Gaelic living, and a simple life. After spending a day gawking at the cliffs and admiring the islands, travel about an hour or so to Galway. With treasures such as Salthill Bay and the charming cobblestone streets, Galway has a lively energy that’ll provide a perfect end to your trip.