Are you planning a road trip to Ireland? One of the most common questions that arise while planning a trip is, “How long should I stay?”
or “How long does it take to road trip Ireland?”. The answer depends on your travel preferences and the number of places you want to cover. In this article, we will guide you through the various factors that determine the duration of your road trip in Ireland.
Factors to Consider
There are several factors to consider before determining how long it takes to road trip Ireland. Some of them are:
1. Your Itinerary
The time duration of your trip depends on the number of places you want to visit. If you plan to cover only the popular tourist destinations like Dublin, Galway, Cork, and Killarney, then a week-long trip would suffice. However, if you want to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations like Dingle Peninsula or Connemara National Park, then add a few more days to your itinerary.
2. Mode of Transportation
The mode of transportation also plays a crucial role in determining the duration of your road trip. If you plan to travel by car or campervan, then you have the flexibility to stop anywhere and anytime according to your convenience. However, if you plan to use public transportation like buses or trains, then it may take longer as there are limited services available in some areas.
3. Time of the Year
The time of year also affects your travel experience in Ireland. During peak season (June-August), there are more tourists and longer queues at popular attractions which may affect your itinerary and increase travel time. Whereas during off-season (November-February), some attractions may be closed due to weather conditions.
Recommended Duration for Road Tripping Ireland
Based on our experience, we recommend a minimum of 7-10 days to road trip Ireland. This duration will allow you to cover the popular tourist destinations, soak in the local culture, and explore some off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Day 1-2: Dublin
Start your trip with Dublin, Ireland’s capital city. Spend two days exploring this vibrant city, including St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Trinity College, and Guinness Storehouse.
Day 3-4: Galway
Drive from Dublin to Galway and spend two days exploring the city’s colorful streets and the nearby Cliffs of Moher.
Day 5-6: Killarney
Drive from Galway to Killarney and spend two days exploring Killarney National Park and the Ring of Kerry.
Day 7-8: Cork
Drive from Killarney to Cork and spend two days exploring the city’s historic sites like Blarney Castle and Cobh Heritage Center.
Tips for Road Tripping Ireland
- Take your time: Don’t rush through your itinerary; take your time to enjoy every destination.
- Plan ahead: Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
- Be prepared for weather changes: Bring appropriate clothing for unpredictable weather conditions.
- Use a GPS or map: Ireland’s roads can be tricky; use a GPS or map to avoid getting lost.
- Drive on the left: Remember that Ireland drives on the left side of the road.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, how long it takes to road trip Ireland depends on several factors like your itinerary, mode of transportation, and time of year. We recommend a minimum of 7-10 days to cover the popular tourist destinations and explore some off-the-beaten-path destinations. Follow our tips for a stress-free and enjoyable road trip in Ireland.