If you ask us, there’s no better way to experience Ireland than hitting the open road. For some people, our small group tours of Ireland are the perfect option. Letting a local guide navigate the roads while sharing stories and fascinating insights is the ideal way to discover the Emerald Isle. But others prefer the freedom and independence that come with a self-drive road trip.
With our self-drive Ireland tours, you can stop at windswept beaches, pull over for a meal in a village pub, and linger as long as you like at a castle ruin or a jaw-dropping viewpoint. But where should you go? Ireland’s network of scenic routes makes it easy for first-timers and seasoned travellers alike to take in our country’s spectacular landscapes.
From epic coastal drives to hidden gems, here are our picks for the best road trips in Ireland, all of which feature in our self-drive tours. If any questions come to mind as we go, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Wild Atlantic Way – The Best Road Trips in Ireland Start Here!
The Wild Atlantic Way is more than a road trip; it’s a journey along the very edge of Europe. Stretching 1,600 miles down Ireland’s west coast, this route is famed for its raw beauty and ever-changing scenery. Highlights include the towering Cliffs of Moher, the colorful streets of Galway, the rugged wilds of Donegal, and Achill Island’s windswept beaches. Every bend seems to open onto a postcard-perfect view.
That said, don’t try to do it all in one go. The route is huge, and part of the joy lies in slowing down and focusing on a few sections. Our Ultimate Ireland 10-Day Self-Drive Tour pulls together the best stretches so you get the drama without feeling overwhelmed. But while the Wild Atlantic Way makes up the majority of this incredible journey, you will also encounter other unmissable destinations like the Rock of Cashel, the Aran Islands, and the Causeway Coastal Route, to name only a few.
In fact, before you even reach the Wild Atlantic Way on the Ultimate Ireland drive, you’ll complete another awe-inspiring driving route first, but more on that later.
If you’re already keen on planning the perfect self-drive break, we think you’ll love our blog The Best Self-Drive Vacations in Ireland. It offers valuable local tips and insights that can help you find the kind of Irish road trip you’ve always wanted to take.
Ring of Kerry – Ireland’s Most Famous Loop
If one route sums up Ireland’s magic, it’s the Ring of Kerry. This 111-mile loop circles through mountains, lakes, coastline, and picturesque villages, offering a mix of everything that makes our country special. Killarney National Park is a must-see and home to numerous highlights, including Torc Mountain and Waterfall, Ross Castle, Muckross House, and Ladies’ View. The Gap of Dunloe is also just outside the park boundary.
As you head around the loop, you’ll also find Moll’s Gap, views of the Skellig Islands out at sea, and charming villages like Kenmare, Sneem, and Portmagee. Ireland’s scenic drives don’t get much better than this! Dig deeper into this legendary route by reading our Guide to Visiting the Ring of Kerry when you have finished here.
Are you looking for a pre-planned self-drive itinerary that includes the Ring of Kerry? We’ve got you covered! Find out all about our South and West Self-Drive Ireland Tour.
Causeway Coastal Route – Northern Ireland’s Crown Jewel
Heading north, the Causeway Coastal Route is often hailed as one of the most beautiful drives in the world, not just on the island of Ireland. This 120-mile stretch between Belfast and Derry packs in everything from dramatic cliffs and gorgeous green landscapes to iconic landmarks and famous filming locations.
The Giant’s Causeway, with its unique hexagonal basalt columns, is the star attraction, but you’ll also want to stop at Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, Dunluce Castle, and the Dark Hedges, a Game of Thrones fan favourite. Quaint seaside towns along the way make for ideal pit stops.
As touched on above, the Causeway Coastal Route leads into the Wild Atlantic Way on our 10-day Ultimate Ireland self-drive tour, making for an unforgettable pairing. But if you want to experience this stunning route on a shorter trip, it also features in our 7-day Northern Way Self-Drive Tour of Ireland.
Are you looking for more local advice about how to fit Northern Ireland into your trip? Our blog about finding your Ireland and Northern Ireland driving itinerary has you covered.
Conor Pass – Ireland’s Highest Mountain Pass
If you’ve got a head for heights, take the road up Conor Pass on the Dingle Peninsula in County Kerry. This is Ireland’s highest mountain pass accessible by car, winding for 12km between Dingle and Kilmore Cross. The drive is narrow and steep, with hairpin bends and sheer drops, but the views are worth every moment. From the top, you’ll see mountains, lakes, and the glittering Atlantic Ocean stretching into the distance.
It’s not a route for the faint-hearted, so go slow and use the pull-ins to let other cars pass. But if you’re up for it, it’s a highlight of our Coast to Coast 5-Day Ireland Driving Tour. If this sounds like a big leap from driving back home in the States, don’t worry — our first-timer’s guide for US drivers has all the tips you need.
The Copper Coast – A Hidden Gem Among the Best Ireland Scenic Drives
The Copper Coast is one of those places that often flies under the radar, but those who make the journey are richly rewarded. Running between Tramore and Dungarvan in County Waterford, this UNESCO Global Geopark is named for its 19th-century copper mines.
What makes it special today are its cliffs, coves, and quiet beaches. It’s a slower, gentler drive compared to some of the other routes, but that’s exactly its charm. Pack a picnic, pull into the viewpoints, and take your time. Does this sound like your kind of road trip? This gem is part of our Ancient East 6-Day Self-Drive Tour.
Want more inspiration for planning your perfect Ireland self-drive tour? Don’t miss our blog Should You Take a Road Trip Through Ireland? It asks questions like “Are you a confident driver?” and “How expensive is a self-drive road trip through Ireland?” so you can find out whether the independent approach is right for you.
Why These Routes Are Perfect for Ireland Self-Drive Tours
Each of these scenic routes showcases a different side of Ireland, but what ties them together is the freedom you get when driving yourself. You can stop at a quiet beach when the sun breaks through the clouds, detour to a castle you spot in the distance, or linger in a village for an extra coffee.
That said, planning routes, booking accommodation, and sorting logistics can be a headache. That’s where we come in. Our self-drive tours combine the independence of the open road with the reassurance of local expertise. We plan the routes, book the stays, and give you insider tips, leaving you free to enjoy the adventure.
Still deciding between self-drive and guided options? Take a look at our blog Guided Tours of Ireland vs Self-Drive Tours of Ireland and our Guide to Self-Guided Tours of Ireland for more help.
Book Your Self-Drive Ireland Tour with Overland!
Ireland’s roads are journeys in themselves, winding past landscapes that range from dramatic cliffs to sleepy fishing harbors. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ring of Kerry, Causeway Coastal Route, Conor Pass, and Copper Coast all deserve a spot on your bucket list, and with the right plan, they’re easier to explore than you might think.
If you’re ready to set off, let us help you make the most of it. Our Self-Drive Ireland Tours are designed to give you the freedom of the open road with none of the planning stress. All you need to do is pick your route, start the engine, and let Ireland unfold before you.
Do you have any pre-booking questions? Please just contact us for all the information you need.
