13-Day Scenic Ireland Road Trip: Cliffs, Lakes & Nature from Dublin

Day 1: Dublin to Wicklow

Dublin to Wicklow, Ireland on June 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Queen of Tarts

Enjoy a cozy breakfast in central Dublin with freshly baked pastries and rich coffee before picking up your rental car.
EUR15, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Wicklow Mountains National Park

Drive south from Dublin to the Wicklow Mountains National Park, a scenic 1-hour trip through countryside that leads to beautiful mountains and lakes.
EUR0, 1h

10:30am

Glendalough Monastic Site and Lakes

Explore the ancient monastic ruins set beside stunning glacial lakes within Wicklow Mountains National Park. Perfect for history and nature lovers.
EUR9, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Wicklow Heather Restaurant

Taste traditional Irish dishes made with local ingredients in a warm mountain lodge setting.
EUR25, 1h

2:30pm

Drive to Powerscourt Waterfall & Gardens

Visit one of Ireland's highest waterfalls and beautiful landscaped gardens in nearby Enniskerry, about a 30-minute drive.
EUR7, 1h30m

4:30pm

Check in at local B&B in Wicklow

Relax and enjoy the peaceful rural environment to prep for the next day of scenic adventures.
EUR80, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at The Russell Inn

Savor classic Irish pub fare with a warm ambience in Wicklow village, popular for fresh seafood and local brews.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 2: Wicklow to Kilkenny

Wicklow to Kilkenny, Ireland on June 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at the B&B

Enjoy a traditional Irish breakfast featuring eggs, sausage, black and white pudding to fuel up for the day.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Kilkenny

Set off south-west towards Kilkenny, a roughly 2-hour drive through lush countryside with occasional lakes on the route.
EUR0, 2h

11:30am

Visit Kilkenny Castle and Grounds

Explore the iconic medieval castle and its beautiful parklands located in the heart of Kilkenny city.
EUR8, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Zuni Restaurant

Enjoy contemporary Irish cuisine in a cozy atmosphere, known for fresh ingredients and excellent service.
EUR30, 1h

2:30pm

Stroll the Medieval Mile and visit Rothe House

Discover Kilkenny’s rich medieval heritage through well-preserved architecture and the local history museum.
EUR5, 1h

4:00pm

Drive towards Killarney

Begin the scenic drive towards Killarney, taking approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, crossing beautiful rural landscapes.
EUR0, 3h

7:00pm

Check in at Killarney hotel

Settle into your accommodation in Killarney, a perfect base for exploring southwestern Ireland.
EUR100, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at The Laurels Pub

Enjoy traditional Irish dishes with local ingredients and live music in a friendly pub setting.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 3: Killarney and Ring of Kerry

Killarney, Ireland on June 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at the hotel

Start the day with a hearty breakfast to prepare for a full day on the Ring of Kerry.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Ring of Kerry Drive

Drive the famous Ring of Kerry route showcasing stunning coastal cliffs, lakes, and mountains. Plan stops at Torc Waterfall and Ladies View.
EUR0, 6h

12:00pm

Lunch at a local café in Kenmare

Pause your journey to taste fresh seafood or hearty stews at an authentic Kenmare café.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Continue Ring of Kerry Loop

Explore the beautiful lakes of Killarney National Park including Muckross Lake and the surrounding mountains.
EUR0, 3h

5:00pm

Return to Killarney

Relax after the extensive drive and take in the town's charming streets.
EUR0, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Murphy's Bar & Restaurant

Finish the day with classic Irish dishes and local beers in a lively pub environment.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 4: Dingle Peninsula

Dingle, Ireland on June 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Killarney hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast before heading to the Dingle Peninsula for outstanding coastal views.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Dingle Peninsula

Drive approximately 1 hour to the Dingle Peninsula, noted for dramatic cliffs and quaint fishing villages.
EUR0, 1h

10:00am

Slea Head Drive

Follow this scenic loop with stops at Dunbeg Fort and Coumeenoole Beach to soak in rugged coastline and historical sites.
EUR0, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Out of the Blue Seafood Restaurant

Enjoy fresh seafood caught daily, served in a casual and vibrant environment on the harbor.
EUR35, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Gallarus Oratory

Explore an early Christian stone church, known for its remarkable preservation and historical significance.
EUR0, 30m

5:00pm

Return to Dingle town

Stroll the colorful streets filled with artisan shops and cozy pubs.
EUR0, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Harbormaster Restaurant

Experience modern Irish cuisine with a focus on local ingredients, accompanied by views of the harbor.
EUR40, 1h30m

9:00pm

Overnight in Dingle

Stay overnight to relax and enjoy the town’s evening charm.
EUR90, Overnight
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Day 5: Dingle to Cliffs of Moher

Dingle to Cliffs of Moher, Ireland on June 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at guesthouse

Light breakfast with local breads and fruit to prepare for a scenic driving day.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Cliffs of Moher

Longer drive roughly 3.5 hours via Tralee and Limerick, passing varied landscapes on the way to the iconic cliffs.
EUR0, 3h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Burren Smokehouse Café in Lisdoonvarna

Enjoy smoked salmon and cheese specialties in a rustic café amid the Burren’s limestone landscape.
EUR20, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Cliffs of Moher

Visit Ireland’s most famous cliffs stretching over 8 km and prepare for magnificent Atlantic views. Open from 9am to 7pm in June.
EUR10, 2h

4:00pm

Walk around Doolin Village

Discover this charming village famous for traditional Irish music and local artisan shops.
EUR0, 1h

6:00pm

Check in at local B&B

Rest and refresh before dinner in the peaceful countryside setting near the cliffs.
EUR85, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at Roadford Restaurant Doolin

Dine on fresh local seafood and seasonal dishes in a cozy environment.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 6: Cliffs of Moher to Galway

Cliffs of Moher to Galway, Ireland on June 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at B&B

Start your day with a wholesome Irish breakfast before heading to Galway.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Galway city

Approximately 1.5-hour scenic drive east to the vibrant city of Galway, known for arts and waterfront charm.
EUR0, 1h30m

10:30am

Explore Galway City Centre and Latin Quarter

Walk through colorful streets, visit street markets, and admire the Spanish Arch and Galway Cathedral.
EUR0, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Ard Bia at Nimmo's

Taste inventive Irish dishes with locally sourced produce in a charming arts center location.
EUR30, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Galway City Museum

Discover the history, art, and culture of Galway and the west of Ireland. Open 10am–5pm.
EUR5, 1h30m

3:30pm

Stroll along Salthill Promenade

Enjoy refreshing sea views on this easy walk along the coast just outside the city center.
EUR0, 1h

5:00pm

Check in at Galway hotel

Rest in the city center to enjoy the evening atmosphere.
EUR110, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at Kai Café and Restaurant

Dine on seasonal dishes with a focus on organic and wild ingredients in a friendly setting.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 7: Connemara National Park

Galway and Connemara, Ireland on June 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a nutritious breakfast in Galway before traveling into the wilder Connemara region.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Connemara National Park

One-hour drive to the National Park entrance, known for breathtaking mountain and lake landscapes.
EUR0, 1h

9:30am

Hike Diamond Hill

Take a 3-4 hour moderate hike offering panoramic views of Connemara’s rugged terrain and coastline.
EUR0, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Connemara Tea Rooms

Relax with homemade soups and sandwiches near the park entrance after your hike.
EUR15, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Kylemore Abbey and Victorian Walled Garden

Short drive to Kylemore Abbey, a romantic castle and gardens set by a lake. Open 9:30am–6pm.
EUR14, 2h

5:30pm

Return to Galway

Drive back to Galway for the evening.
EUR0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Quay Street Kitchen

Enjoy modern Irish cuisine using local ingredients, perfect for your last night in Galway.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 8: Galway to Westport

Galway to Westport, Ireland on June 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Begin with a breakfast of fresh baked goods and coffee in Galway.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Westport

Travel northwest for around 1.5 hours to the picturesque town of Westport, near Clew Bay.
EUR0, 1h30m

10:30am

Explore Westport town

Walk the charming streets, visit Westport House, and enjoy the Georgian architecture.
EUR12, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at An Port Mór Restaurant

Delight in inventive local fare inspired by Westport’s rich farming and coastal surroundings.
EUR25, 1h

2:00pm

Drive to Croagh Patrick

Head towards Ireland’s holy mountain, offering amazing views and spiritual significance, popular for hiking.
EUR0, 30m

2:30pm

Hike Croagh Patrick (optional)

Take a 3-4 hour climb for panoramic views over Clew Bay and the surrounding landscape.
EUR0, 3h30m

6:00pm

Return to Westport

Relax at your accommodation after an active day.
EUR0, 30m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Helm Restaurant

Enjoy a lively atmosphere and a menu featuring local West of Ireland ingredients.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 9: Slieve League Cliffs

Westport to Slieve League, Ireland on June 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Prepare for a day visiting some of Europe’s highest sea cliffs.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Slieve League

Travel north about 2.5 hours to Slieve League Cliffs in County Donegal, a less touristy but spectacular natural site.
EUR0, 2h30m

11:00am

Hike at Slieve League Cliffs

Enjoy hikes ranging from easy walks to more challenging routes along these dramatic cliffs offering serene sea views.
EUR0, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at nearby Teac Jack

A local café providing simple and tasty meals with views of Donegal Bay.
EUR20, 1h

3:30pm

Drive to Donegal Town

Drive south 1 hour to Donegal Town, known for its historic castle and lively local scene.
EUR0, 1h

4:30pm

Visit Donegal Castle

Explore a 15th-century castle in the town center with fascinating historical exhibitions.
EUR7, 1h

6:00pm

Check in at Donegal accommodation

Relax and prepare for the journey eastwards.
EUR90, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at The Blueberry Tea Room

Enjoy freshly prepared meals focusing on local and seasonal ingredients.
EUR30, 1h30m
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Day 10: Donegal to Belfast

Donegal to Belfast, Northern Ireland on June 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with a classic Irish breakfast to fuel the drive to Belfast.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Belfast

A 3-hour scenic drive east into Northern Ireland, with rolling hills along the way.
EUR0, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at St. George's Market (if open)

Enjoy a variety of local street food vendors in one of Belfast’s oldest markets, open Fri-Sun till 3pm.
EUR20, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Titanic Belfast

Explore the world-class Titanic museum detailing the ship’s construction and collision with engaging interactive exhibits. Open daily 9:30am–5:00pm.
GBP20, 3h

5:30pm

Walk around Cathedral Quarter

Experience lively streets filled with pubs, galleries, and street art.
EUR0, 1h

7:00pm

Check in at Belfast hotel

Get settled and rest for your final full day in Ireland.
EUR120, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at Mourne Seafood Bar

Feast on fresh and locally sourced seafood in the heart of Belfast.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 11: Belfast to Dublin

Belfast to Dublin, Ireland on June 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Prepare for your return drive to Dublin with a hearty breakfast.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Drive to Dublin

About a 2-hour drive south; allow time to stop at scenic or historic spots along the way like the Hill of Tara.
EUR0, 2h

11:30am

Visit Hill of Tara

Explore this ancient ceremonial and burial site with amazing views over the valley, situated just outside Dublin.
EUR0, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Greenhouse Dublin

A Michelin-starred experience focusing on contemporary Irish cuisine, reservation recommended.
EUR60, 1h30m

3:00pm

Check in at Dublin hotel

Relax and refresh in the city center ahead of your last days in Ireland.
EUR130, Overnight

4:00pm

Walking Tour of Dublin

Explore highlights like Trinity College, St. Stephen’s Green, and the Guinness Storehouse on a guided walking tour.
EUR25, 2h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Woollen Mills

Enjoy Irish staple dishes with a modern twist beside the River Liffey.
EUR35, 1h30m
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Day 12: Explore Dublin City

Dublin, Ireland on June 12, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Queen of Tarts

Return for a favorite breakfast spot offering amazing tarts, scones, and coffee in a delightful setting.
EUR15, 1h

9:30am

Visit Guinness Storehouse

Discover the history and brewing process of Ireland’s famous stout with panoramic city views from the Gravity Bar. Open 9am–7pm.
EUR25, 2h

11:30am

Tour Kilmainham Gaol

Explore this historic former prison known for its role in Irish history. Guided tours available 10am–5pm.
EUR10, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Church Café Bar & Restaurant

Dine in a beautifully restored church with a welcoming atmosphere and varied Irish cuisine.
EUR30, 1h

3:00pm

Relax in St. Stephen’s Green Park

Unwind in one of Dublin's most historic and beautifully landscaped parks.
EUR0, 1h

4:00pm

Shopping and strolling Grafton Street

Explore boutique shops and street performers on Dublin’s premier shopping street.
EUR0, 1h30m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Chapter One

End your Irish adventure with exquisite fine dining experience featuring modern Irish cuisine.
EUR60, 2h
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Day 13: Departure Day

Dublin, Ireland on June 13, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Grab a hearty breakfast before heading to the airport.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Dublin Airport

Return your rental car and prepare for your departure flight.
EUR0, 30m
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