Since you’ve been reading all my Ireland posts, you’ve probably fallen completely in love with this magical little country already, right? I know I did. So now I’m making life easier with my complete 12 day Ireland road trip itinerary, packed with castles, coastal drives, cosy pubs, family chaos, hidden gems, and enough green countryside to make your camera cry.
This was our full Ireland 12 day itinerary self drive, taking us from Dublin to Limerick, Killarney, Galway and Northern Ireland before looping back again. If you’re searching for the best Ireland road trip route 12 days, this is honestly one of the most incredible ways to experience the Emerald Isle.
And unlike those super polished itineraries that make you think nobody ever spills cereal or gets lost, this one is real. It includes rainy moments, funny family memories, random roadside stops, playground breaks for Mia and Caius, and the moments that made me completely fall for Ireland.
12-day Ireland Itinerary Overview
Total Days on Trip Around Ireland
13 days
Total Distance of 2 week trip to Ireland
2,099 km
Total Tolls
€21.40
Total Leprechauns Run Over
Zero. Phew.
Best Time to Do This Ireland Road Trip Itinerary 10-14 Days
If you’re planning your own Ireland road trip itinerary 10-14 days, timing can make a huge difference.
Best months to visit Ireland
- May
- June
- July
- August
- September
Personally, I think May and September are perfect. You still get gorgeous scenery and longer daylight hours without peak summer crowds everywhere.
That said, Ireland does whatever it wants weather-wise. Sunshine one minute. Sideways rain the next. Then suddenly a rainbow appears over a castle and you forgive the entire country immediately.
Bring layers. Always.
Ireland Car Hire Tips. Hidden Fees to Watch For
One thing I learned very quickly during this self-drive Ireland itinerary complete guide was that Ireland car hire fees can get wildly out of control if you’re not careful.
After breakfast at the Ballsbridge Hotel in Dublin, we picked up our rental car through Rhino Car Hire.
The booking process itself was easy. The actual car rental experience in Dublin? Slightly less magical.
Ireland is notorious for hidden car hire charges, and we experienced pretty much all of them:
- airport drop-off fees
- Northern Ireland fees
- extra driver charges
- admin fees
- insurance add-ons
By the end, we had spent more than €300 extra on top of the original booking cost.
My Ireland car hire advice
- Take photos of the car before driving away
- Read insurance details carefully
- Budget extra for hidden charges
- Check if your credit card includes rental coverage
- Book automatic cars early if needed
Still completely worth it though because Ireland is absolutely made for road trips.
Ireland Road Trip Map
This 12-day Ireland road trip map takes you on an unforgettable self-drive adventure through some of the most breathtaking parts of the Emerald Isle, from the lively streets of Galway City and the historic charm of Dublin Castle to the dramatic mountain views along the Ring of Kerry and Skellig Ring.
Along the way, you’ll discover ancient archaeological sites, rugged coastlines, colourful villages, medieval castles, and cosy pubs pouring creamy pints of Guinness beside roaring fires.
The route winds through iconic stops like Cork City, Kilkenny, Killarney, the Giant’s Causeway, and the Cliffs of Moher.
Packed with scenic drives, historic sites, local food, family-friendly stops, and unforgettable landscapes, this Ireland road trip itinerary is the perfect way to experience the best of Ireland in 12 days.
Day 1. Dublin to Limerick via Rock of Dunamaise
Accommodation: Travelodge Limerick – Check price
Driving time: Approx. 3 hours plus stops
Toll: €1.90
While we had already spent 6 days in Dublin, this was officially the first day of our 12 day Ireland road trip itinerary.
After breakfast at the Ballsbridge Hotel, we picked up the car and headed toward Limerick.
On the advice of a friend, we stopped at the Rock of Dunamaise along the way.
Mia and Caius were fast asleep in the back seat at first, so I stayed in the car for a while before eventually heading out once they woke up.
And wow, I’m so glad we explored it together.
The Rock of Dunamaise rises dramatically above the plains with ancient castle ruins dating back to the 12th century. The green hills, cool air, and eerie silence made it feel completely untouched.
There were barely any tourists around and it became one of the unexpected highlights of our Ireland road trip.
Eventually the rain rolled in because Ireland likes to keep you on your toes, so we all ran back to the warmth of the car.
We checked into the Travelodge in Limerick later that afternoon. Honestly, it was small, had no WiFi, and customer service wasn’t exactly overflowing with warmth. But it was clean, so I’ll give it that.
That evening we caught up with friends for dinner who we had first met years earlier in Nazareth, Israel, and then again randomly in the “no man’s land” area between Jordan and Israel.
One of those tiny-world travel moments I’ll never forget.
Dinner at Casa Nostra ended up being such a lovely night.
Day 2. Cliffs of Moher and Bunratty Castle
Accommodation: Travelodge Limerick
Driving time: Approx. 2.5 hours total
Toll: €3.80
Breakfast this morning was cereal eaten out of mugs in our hotel room.
Not exactly the breakfast of champions, but we had an early start for the Cliffs of Moher.
The cliffs were dramatic, windy, and every bit as beautiful as everyone says they are.
Afterwards we drove to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park where we decided almost immediately that we needed to return for the medieval banquet the next evening.
By complete chance we found a cute little B&B nearby and booked ourselves in for the following night.
This is one thing I loved most about our Ireland itinerary Dublin Galway Killarney 12 days. The flexibility to change plans whenever somewhere special appeared.
Day 3. Bunratty Castle and Medieval Banquet
Accommodation: Gallows View B&B, Bunratty
More cereal-in-a-mug happened this morning before we headed to a nearby indoor playground.
We let Mia and Caius burn off energy for several hours while I caught up on work using the free WiFi.
Travel blogging with kids is glamorous like that.
After the playground we explored King John’s Castle before driving to our first proper Irish B&B.
It was gorgeous. Cosy, welcoming, peaceful, and exactly what I imagine when I think of Ireland.
That evening we attended the Bunratty medieval banquet and it was outrageously fun. Music, costumes, giant portions of food, singing, laughter. Completely touristy and completely worth it.
Day 4. Killarney and the Ring of Kerry
Accommodation: 19th Green B&B, Killarney – Check prices
Driving time: 5 to 7 hours with stops
Toll: €1.90
This became one of my favourite days of the entire Ireland driving itinerary Ring of Kerry to Northern Ireland.
After a delicious breakfast at our B&B, we headed toward Killarney.
It actually took us a few attempts to find the 19th Green B&B, but once we finally arrived and dropped our bags off, we headed straight out for the Ring of Kerry.
The Ring of Kerry is one of the most famous scenic drives in Ireland and for good reason.
Because the roads are narrow and tour buses all drive anti-clockwise, we decided to follow the same direction to avoid getting stuck trying to squeeze past giant coaches on tiny roads.
We stopped for lunch at the Olde Glenbeigh Hotel which ended up being one of the cheaper and tastier meals we had during the trip.
The ferry to Valentia Island wasn’t operating that day so we crossed via bridge instead, although honestly we didn’t find the island particularly memorable.
But then we followed signs toward Skellig Ring.
And this was where the magic happened.
Skellig Ring absolutely blew me away. Coastal roads, panoramic ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and stunning scenery stretching toward the Skellig Islands, Dingle Peninsula and Iveragh Mountains.
This detour ended up being our favourite part of the entire Ring of Kerry and one of the most beautiful landscapes I’ve ever seen anywhere in the world.
We stopped constantly for photos and eventually found a local playground where Mia and Caius could run around as the sun started setting.
By the time we finally made it back to our B&B we were completely exhausted from a full day of driving and exploring.
Where is Killarney Ireland? What is Killarney?
Killarney is a town in County Kerry, located in the southwest of Ireland. It sits on the edge of stunning lakes and mountains and is best known as the gateway to the famous Ring of Kerry scenic drive. The town is surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of Killarney National Park, making it one of the most visited natural areas in the country. It is about 300 km from Dublin and is a key stop for anyone exploring Ireland’s wild Atlantic coast.
Did you know there is a waterfall in Killarney? Torc Waterfall is located just a short drive from town inside Killarney National Park in the southwest of Ireland.
It’s a beautiful 20-metre cascade set in lush forest at the base of Torc Mountain. After heavy rain it becomes especially powerful, and the short walk from the car park makes it one of the easiest natural sights to access in the area.
Can You Drive Through Killarney National Park?
Yes, partially.
When driving through Killarney National Park, there are sections you can pass through by car, especially the scenic routes around Muckross Road and nearby areas.
Some parts are pedestrian-only, while other sections are best explored by bike, walking trail, or traditional jaunting car.
Personally, I’d recommend doing both. Drive the scenic roads and then stop to properly explore because Killarney National Park walks are one of the highlights of any best Ireland road trip route 12 days.
Visiting Killarney National Park
Visiting Killarney National Park starts with a short, scenic move from town into one of Ireland’s most iconic natural landscapes. A Killarney National Park map helps you navigate lakes, waterfalls, and walking trails, making it easy to choose the best things to do in Killarney National Park, from hiking and wildlife spotting to historic sites. The Killarney National Park Visitor Centre is a great first stop for trail advice and ideas on what to do in Killarney National Park. Many visitors extend their stay, booking hotels near Killarney National Park so they can explore at a slower pace.
Is Killarney National Park free? There is no Killarney National Park entrance fee, as access is completely free. This makes it one of the most accessible and rewarding parks in Ireland. When you visit Killarney National Park, you can simply walk or drive in and explore freely, whether it’s on lakeside paths, forest walks, or scenic viewpoints.
The best things to do in Killarney National Park include Muckross House and Gardens, the lakes, Torc Waterfall, and cycling the quieter trails. For food, there are plenty of restaurants near Killarney National Park in Killarney town, offering everything from traditional pubs to modern dining, making it easy to combine nature with great local food.
Look out for my Killarney National Park itinerary coming soon!
Day 5. Blarney Castle and Cobh
Accommodation: Bella Vista, Cobh – find prices
Driving time: Approx. 3 hours
Breakfast included one memorable parenting moment where my daughter accidentally set a napkin on fire trying to rescue toast from the toaster.
So naturally, we considered that a sign of a successful morning and headed off to Blarney Castle.
Built almost 600 years ago, Blarney Castle is one of Ireland’s most photographed landmarks.
Getting to the top with kids felt like an actual workout, but eventually we made it to the famous Blarney Stone.
Yes, I kissed it.
And yes, it’s every bit as awkward as it sounds.
You basically lean backwards over a giant drop while strangers encourage you to kiss a very old, very slobbery stone.
There’s also a lot of pressure to move quickly because a queue of tourists is waiting behind you.
But honestly, I do feel slightly more eloquent ever since. Ha.
Afterwards we attempted to stay in Cork but struggled to find parking or accommodation, so we continued on to Cobh where we found a lovely two-bedroom apartment for the night.
Day 6. FOTA Wildlife Park to Kilkenny
Accommodation: Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny – check prices
Petrol: AUD$133
Toll: €1.90
Today, we explored FOTA Wildlife Park and absolutely loved it.
From giraffes to cheetahs, this place was incredible.
It ended up becoming one of our favourite wildlife parks anywhere.
Afterwards, we drove to Kilkenny and checked into the Newpark Hotel for two nights.
It was modern, reasonably priced, and even had a mini zoo out the back, which Mia and Caius loved.
Day 7. Exploring Kilkenny
Accommodation: Newpark Hotel
After breakfast, we wandered through Kilkenny and explored the castle in the centre of town.
The gardens were beautiful, and the self-guided castle tour was affordable and easy with kids.
Kilkenny ended up being one of those towns that completely charms you.
We stopped at Shake Out for crepes and milkshakes before grabbing Chinese takeaway for dinner and spending a relaxed evening back at the hotel.
Day 8. Kilkenny to Belfast
Accommodation: Random roadside B&B
Driving time: Approx. 4.5 hours
Tolls: €1.90 + €4.90 airport toll
After breakfast, we began driving toward Belfast.
On the way, we stopped at our upcoming house sit in Kildare to meet the owner and check out our temporary home for the next few weeks.
We dropped off some larger bags before continuing north.
Belfast felt busy and energetic, but instead of staying there, we kept driving along the northeast coast until we eventually found a random roadside B&B.
Day 9. Giant’s Causeway and Londonderry
Accommodation: Londonderry area
Unfortunately, our B&B decided to charge us more than what had been agreed the night before, which definitely left a bad taste in our mouths.
But thankfully we were heading toward the Giant’s Causeway and not even the cold wet weather could ruin that.
First stop was Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge followed by the Giant’s Causeway.
Completely spectacular.
During our travels, we had been using a BubbleBum car seat and had become friends with the creators through email.
They invited us to visit while we were in Londonderry and we ended up having such a lovely evening with them over dinner. They even generously offered us a place to stay for the night.
One of the nicest parts of travel is the people you meet along the way.
Day 10. Donegal to Galway
Accommodation: Sykes Cottages
After a leisurely morning with our hosts, we headed toward Donegal, where we met one of my lovely readers at the Blueberry Café.
We enjoyed some delicious Irish food before continuing to Galway.
We had booked three nights in a gorgeous countryside cottage through Sykes Cottages and instantly fell in love with the area.
Day 11. Galway
Accommodation: Sykes Cottages
This was our recovery day after a whirlwind few weeks on the road.
We took Mia and Caius to see a movie before I finally got to show them the Galway I had fallen in love with during my earlier press trip.
Lunch at The Twelve Hotel was definitely one of the highlights.
Galway completely stole my heart.
Day 12. Galway and Quay Street
Accommodation: Sykes Cottages
Another relaxing Galway day.
We wandered around the Quay Street pedestrian mall, soaked up the atmosphere, and enjoyed finally slowing down after such a busy road trip.
To celebrate our wedding anniversary, I received a beautiful traditional Claddagh ring from one of Galway’s iconic jewellery shops.
Definitely one of my favourite memories from the trip.
Day 13. Galway to Dublin
Driving time: Approx. 3 hours
Toll: €7.00
We left early to return the rental car in Dublin.
The queue outside the car rental office was enormous, but when I jumped out to ask where to park, the staff casually told me to skip the line, leave the car in the car park, and hand over the keys.
Shockingly easy after all the earlier car hire drama.
They even stored our luggage while we spent the day exploring Dublin before catching the train to our housesit in Kildare.
We wandered through the city, had pub food at O’Neill’s with my friend Corey from Irish Fireside, and then later met some new friends near Trinity City Hotel.
We finished the afternoon at St Stephen’s Green playground before taking the train to Newbridge where our house-sitting host picked us up. 2 weeks in the beautiful, quiet countryside of Kildare – I could have stayed in Ireland ten times longer.
Estimated Daily Driving Times Between Stops
- Dublin to Limerick. 2.5 to 3 hours
- Limerick to Cliffs of Moher. 1.5 hours
- Bunratty to Killarney. 2 to 2.5 hours
- Ring of Kerry scenic drive. 4 to 7 hours with stops
- Killarney to Cobh. 2.5 to 3 hours
- Cobh to Kilkenny. 2.5 to 3 hours
- Kilkenny to Belfast. 3.5 to 4.5 hours
- Belfast to Giant’s Causeway. 1.5 hours
- Londonderry to Galway. 4.5 to 5.5 hours
- Galway to Dublin. 2.5 to 3 hours
Accommodation Price Ranges in Ireland
Budget hotels
€70 to €120 per night
Mid-range B&Bs
€120 to €250 per night
Boutique hotels and cottages
€250 to €600+ per night
One thing I absolutely loved in Ireland was the B&B experience. The breakfasts alone practically replaced lunch.
Cost of 12 Day Ireland Road Trip
Approximate costs for families or couples:
- Car hire. €700 to €1,500
- Petrol. €300 to €500
- Accommodation. €3,000 to €5,500
- Food and drinks. €1,000 to €2,000
- Attractions. €300 to €800
- Parking and tolls. €50 to €150
Ireland definitely isn’t the cheapest destination, but the scenery and experiences make every euro worth it.
Ireland Road Trip Packing List
Essentials
- Waterproof jacket
- Layers
- Comfortable shoes
- Portable charger
- Universal adapter
- Umbrella
- Daypack
- Snacks
- Camera
Family travel extras
- Wet wipes
- Downloaded movies
- Entertainment for kids
- Reusable water bottles
- Emergency snacks for long drives
Never underestimate the power of emergency road trip snacks.
What I’d Change If I Did This Ireland Road Trip Again
Honestly, I’d spend far more time in Galway and around the Ring of Kerry.
Galway ended up becoming my absolute favourite place in Ireland.
If I did this trip again, I would:
- add at least 2 more nights in Galway
- slow down the Ring of Kerry drive
- spend longer exploring Killarney National Park
- include more Wild Atlantic Way detours
- allow more downtime between driving days
Some places deserve lingering longer.
Galway is definitely one of them.
Things I Might Have Missed in Ireland That Are Worth Visiting
As much as I tried to fit into this epic 12-day Ireland road trip itinerary, there’s still so much of Ireland I haven’t explored yet, which honestly just gives me another excuse to go back.
If you have extra time during your Ireland self drive adventure, I’d absolutely consider adding places like Westport in County Mayo, which is famous for colourful streets, traditional music, and access to the stunning Wild Atlantic Way.
Waterford is another beautiful stop packed with Viking history, coastal scenery, and fascinating historic sites. I also would have loved more time in Cork City beyond our quick pass through, especially for the food scene and buzzing atmosphere.
Connemara National Park is high on my return list too, with dramatic mountain views, remote landscapes, and some of the wildest scenery in Ireland. Other places travellers rave about include Dingle Peninsula, Achill Island, the Aran Islands, and the ancient archaeological sites of Newgrange.
Honestly, one of the hardest parts of planning an Ireland road trip itinerary of 10-14 days is accepting that you simply can’t see it all in one visit.
FAQ About This Ireland 12 Day Itinerary Self Drive
Is 12 days enough for Ireland?
Yes. A 12 day Ireland road trip itinerary is enough time to experience Ireland’s highlights without feeling completely overwhelmed.
Can you drive through Killarney National Park?
Yes. You can drive through sections of Killarney National Park, although some areas are best explored on foot or by bike.
Is driving in Ireland difficult?
Not really, although narrow country roads and driving on the left can take a little adjustment at first.
Do you need toll cash or card in Ireland?
Most tolls now accept cards or online payment systems, although it’s still useful to carry some cash just in case.
Final Thoughts on This 12 Day Ireland Road Trip Itinerary
This ended up becoming one of my favourite family travel adventures ever.
From cereal eaten out of mugs to dramatic coastal drives, medieval banquets, random roadside B&Bs, playground stops, Irish castles, and Galway pub lunches, this trip gave us memories I’ll never forget.
If you’re planning your own Ireland 12 day itinerary self drive, I cannot recommend doing it by car enough.
Ireland is magical, messy, scenic, funny, welcoming, and absolutely unforgettable.
