If you’ve ever dreamed of dancing through ancient castles, coastal cliffs and winding country roads with nothing but your cosiest jumpers and the open road ahead, Ireland’s got you covered. And what better way to explore the Emerald Isle than from the comfort of your very own motorhome? No rigid schedules, no constant packing, just pure, unfiltered freedom.
This Ireland road trip in 7 days takes you from buzzing Dublin to medieval towns, wild Atlantic shores, and fairytale landscapes you’ll swear were CGI. We’ve packed each day with scenic drives, must-do experiences and charming campsites that welcome motorhomes with open arms (and hot showers). So fill up the tank, cue up your Celtic playlist and let’s hit the road. Ireland’s waiting, and yes, there will be sheep. A lot of sheep.
Day 1 - Dublin to Kilkenny
Distance: 77 miles
We’re going to start and end this route in the capital city of Ireland, so you can arrange your motorhome hire in Dublin. You can also add some time in Dublin to your trip, but for the purpose of keeping this Ireland road trip to 7 days, we’re heading further!
Wave goodbye to the bustle of Dublin and hit the road towards Kilkenny, a medieval gem brimming with charm. The drive is easy-going and scenic, providing a gentle start to the trip with plenty of charming roadside cafés for a pit stop. Park up, grab a pint and prepare to fall in love with cobbled streets and castle views.
Things to do:
Tour the majestic Kilkenny Castle, which dates all the way back to 1260. Over the centuries, it has witnessed a great deal of history, including a brief period as the capital of the Irish Confederacy, being besieged and hosting Ireland’s leading families.
Stroll through the Medieval Mile, a fascinating trail that runs through the heart of Kilkenny, linking the 13th-century cathedral to the iconic castle. Along the way, you’ll pass cobbled lanes, medieval buildings, hidden gardens, and lively cafés tucked inside centuries-old structures. It’s a perfect mix of history and charm, with plenty of spots to linger, explore and imagine life in Ireland’s medieval heyday.
Visit Smithwick’s Brewery Experience for a tour and beer tasting experience. Many report that this is their favourite tasting experience in Ireland—and trust us, there are a lot of them.
Admire contemporary and historical art at the Butler Gallery, housed in the beautifully restored Evans’ Home, a former 19th-century almshouse. The gallery features rotating exhibitions, a sculpture garden and works by major Irish artists, offering a peaceful and inspiring break from the bustle of town.
Browse the Kilkenny Design Centre, a treasure trove of Irish craft and creativity set in a former 18th-century coach house. Inside, you’ll find everything from handmade jewellery and pottery to stylish homeware and artisan gifts, all crafted by top Irish designers—the perfect souvenirs to take home!
Staying at: Tree Grove Caravan & Camping Park
This quiet, family-run spot sits just outside the city with views of rolling hills and friendly donkeys as your neighbours. Tree Grove Caravan & Camping Park boasts spotless facilities, ample space for motorhomes, and a lovely walk into town for those who fancy stretching their legs. Bonus: The owner will give you top-notch local recommendations with a side of that beloved Irish banter.
New Ross Road, Co. Kilkenny, Ireland
52.640112, -7.228976
Day 2 - Kilkenny to Killarney
Distance: 105 miles
Say goodbye to the donkeys and hit the road again for the second day of your Ireland road trip itinerary. Today’s route snakes through the heart of Ireland, with a dreamy detour to the Rock of Cashel, one of Ireland’s most dramatic historic sites. Once you reach Killarney, the lake views, mountain air and pint-ready pubs await. It is best known for its national park and the world-famous Lakes of Killarney, so take it slow and enjoy the lush greenery that starts to feel like a fairytale.
Things to do:
Take a break from driving to marvel at the Rock of Cashel. Perched high on a limestone outcrop, this ancient site looks like something out of a fantasy novel.
Cycle through Killarney National Park—don’t worry, it’s relatively flat! Pedal past mirror-like lakes, mossy woodlands, and castle ruins that feel like secret movie sets.
Visit the stunning Muckross House & Gardens. This grand old manor is surrounded by lush gardens, glossy lakes, and mountain views that belong on a postcard. Take a guided tour or just stroll the grounds pretending you own the place.
Hike or drive to Torc Waterfall, a roaring 20-metre waterfall hidden in a leafy green nook.
Cool off at Lough Leane. Hop in a kayak or canoe and glide across the still, misty waters of Killarney’s largest lake. Keep an eye out for tiny islands, nesting birds and the occasional castle rising out of the trees.
Staying at: Fleming’s White Bridge Caravan & Camping Park
Nestled by a bubbling river and a stone’s throw from the town centre, this spot offers both serenity and convenience. The facilities at Fleming’s White Bridget Caravan & Camping Park are modern, the vibe is relaxed, and it’s a favourite among international roadtrippers. You might even catch live traditional music at one of the nearby pubs.
Ballycasheen Road, Ballycasheen, Whitebridge, Co. Kerry, V93 HW56, Ireland
52.057000, -9.475858
Day 3 - Killarney to Dingle
Distance: 40 miles (+ additional 30 scenic miles if doing Slea Head)
A short but beautiful drive: wind your way along the Slea Head Drive, where cliffs drop dramatically into crashing waves and sheep might just outnumber humans. Dingle is the ultimate small town with big vibes: think colourful pubs, dolphin tales and artisan ice cream. Give yourself plenty of time to stop and soak in views you’ll want to wallpaper your house with. If you’re up for some more time on the road, add a little detour to your 7-day self-drive tour of Ireland by visiting Slea Head.
Things to do:
Drive or bike the Slea Head Loop. Twist and turn along one of Ireland’s most scenic coastal routes, with jaw-dropping views at every bend. Whether you’re pedalling or cruising, keep your eyes peeled for ancient beehive huts, dramatic cliffs and sheep who think they own the road.
Try sea salt ice cream at Murphy’s. This isn’t your average cone, and don’t you dare ask for mint chocolate chip. Murphy’s makes magic with local Dingle cream and Atlantic sea salt. It’s weird, wonderful and worth every cold, creamy bite.
Visit Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium. Come face-to-fin with sharks, penguins, jellyfish and more in this surprisingly impressive little aquarium. Great for a rainy day or just channelling your inner marine biologist.
Catch live music at Dick Mack’s Pub. By day it’s a leather shop, by night it’s one of the best music spots in Dingle. Grab a pint, squeeze into a snug corner and let the trad tunes work their magic.
Hop on a boat from Dingle Harbour and cruise the bay with a salty breeze in your hair. If you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins flipping and splashing alongside the boat like they’re putting on a show just for you!
Staying at: Inch Beach Campsite
Nestled just across the road from three miles of golden sand, this campsite offers hard-standing pitches with electric hookups. Located on the lower slopes of the Dingle Peninsula, you’ll wake up to sweeping views over Dingle Bay and the Slieve Mish Mountains. Imagine sipping your morning coffee with that kind of view! With excellent facilities, including clean showers, laundry, and a kitchen area, Inch Beach Campsite offers a great blend of comfort and coastal adventure.
R561, Inch, Inch Beach, Co. Kerry, V92 WO84, Ireland
52.143065, -9.980434
Day 4 - Dingle to Cliffs of Moher to Doolin
Distance: 130 miles (via Tarbert ferry)
Did you enjoy that morning view? We knew you would! Head north with a ferry crossing from Tarbert to Killimer; it’s quick, scenic, and your motorhome will love the sea breeze. Then it’s on to the iconic Cliffs of Moher, followed by an overnight stay in the tiny music-haven of Doolin. It’s a long-ish drive but totally worth it for jaw-dropping Atlantic views and Guinness by candlelight. This is a very packed day, so be sure to pack plenty of snacks and plan in enough breaks. If you feel overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to skip something or spread this over two days.
Things to do:
Snap photos at the Cliffs of Moher. These legendary cliffs are dramatic, windswept and a risk for all headwear. With waves crashing 700 feet below, you won’t believe it until you’ve seen it with your own eyes.
Stretch your legs on the cliffside trail to Doolin, where every step comes with ocean views and puffin-spotting potential. It’s the perfect way to earn that pint waiting for you at the end.
Grab dinner at Gus O’Connor’s Pub with live music. This cosy pub has been feeding and serenading travellers for over 180 years, so you know they’ve nailed it. Expect hearty Irish fare, a warm welcome and fiddles flying by dessert.
Head underground to Doolin Cave, home to one of Europe’s largest free-hanging stalactites. The cave tour is short, sweet, and thankfully doesn’t involve any crawling.
Got a little wiggle room in your itinerary? Hop on a ferry to the Aran Islands, where time slows down, Irish is more common than English, and bikes outnumber cars.
Staying at: Nagles Doolin Camping & Caravan Park
Perched right by the sea with the Cliffs in view, this campsite is the definition of campervan heaven. Expect top-notch showers, Wi-Fi that actually works, and a glorious sunset spot to toast the day. Nagles Doolin Camping & Caravan Park is also right next to the ferry dock, so spontaneous island hopping is just a few steps away.
Ballaghaline, Co. Clare, V95 HX25, Ireland
53.016446, -9.400320
Day 5 - Doolin to Galway
Distance: 45 miles
We’ve been exploring a lot of stunning nature on this Ireland road trip itinerary, so maybe it’s time to mix things up with an urban landscape. A relaxed drive through the wild Burren National Park landscape brings you to Galway, the city of music, murals, and magic. Park up early and spend the afternoon strolling Latin Quarter streets, where every corner sings (literally). Bonus: everything is walkable, and your motorhome gets a well-earned rest.
Things to do:
Busk or boogie down the famous Shop Street. This pedestrian street is pure Galway magic, where musicians, dancers, and artists turn the cobblestones into a stage. Whether you’re tapping your toes or joining the fun, it’s impossible not to vibe with the energy.
Grab oysters at Moran’s Oyster Cottage. Treat your taste buds to the freshest Galway Bay oysters, shucked to perfection, and best washed down with a pint. It’s a slurp, a sip, and a little moment of Irish heaven.
Stroll the Salthill Promenade and make sure to “kick the wall” at the end—it’s a real thing, we promise. With sea air, sunshine (if you’re lucky), and views of the Burren across the bay, it’s Galway’s version of meditation.
Visit the quirky Galway City Museum. This free little gem packs in everything from prehistoric tools to modern art and a full-on fishing boat suspended from the ceiling. It’s equal parts charming, educational, and slightly random—in the best way.
Catch a traditional music session at Tigh Neachtain. Pull up a stool, order something local, and let the music carry you away. If the walls could talk, they’d sing in reels and jigs.
Staying at: Salthill Caravan & Camping Park
Perched right on Galway Bay, this site offers hard‑standing motorhome bays with electric hookups, sea views, and full amenities like hot showers, laundry, and even a games room. You can step straight onto the famous Salthill Promenade for an evening stroll, and buses run every 30 minutes into the city centre, making it easy to visit pubs, galleries, and concerts without moving your wheels. Salthill Caravan & Camping Park is a perfect blend of seaside calm and vibrant city vibes to recharge before the final leg of your 7-day self-drive tour of Ireland.
Salthill, Co. Galway, Ireland
53.256425, -9.105242
Day 6 - Galway to Westport (via Connemara)
Distance: 55 miles
Now that we’ve got a city day behind us, it’s time to get back into nature pronto. Today’s drive is all about the wild heart of Ireland — Connemara National Park, with its blanket bogs, stone walls and sheep traffic jams. Stop for tea in Clifden or climb Diamond Hill if you’re feeling adventurous. End your day in Westport, a colourful little town with a big personality.
Things to do:
Lace up your boots for Diamond Hill, a not-too-tough, big-reward hike with panoramic views over Connemara’s wild landscape and glittering coastline. By the time you reach the summit, you’ll feel like you’ve conquered something epic (without wrecking your legs).
Explore Kylemore Abbey and Gardens. This fairytale abbey nestled into a lakeside mountain looks like it leapt out of a romance novel. Don’t miss the Victorian walled gardens—also known as proof that the monks had impeccable taste!
Clifden is Connemara’s unofficial capital, with cute cafés, colourful shops, and irresistible bookshops. It’s the perfect pitstop to refuel and pick up something woolly or handmade.
Cruise or kayak on Killary Fjord, Ireland’s only true fjord, where the water’s calm and the views are majestic.
Owned by the legendary flautist from The Chieftains, Matt Molloy’s Pub is a music lover’s dream. You never know who might join a traditional music session—locals, legends or someone who forgot they had a tin whistle in their pocket.
Staying at: Westport House Caravan & Camping Park
Pitch up beside a castle on a lush estate. There are certainly worse places to pitch a motorhome, that’s for sure! You’ll have showers, electric hookups, woodland walks, and even a Pirate Adventure Park (if you’re bringing little ones). Town is just a riverside walk away from Westport House Caravan & Camping Park, and it’s full of food, fiddles, and charm.
Westport House Demense, Golf Course Road, Westport, Co. Mayo, Ireland
53.806110, -9.537296
Day 7 - Westport to Dublin (via Athlone)
Distance: 150 miles
An Ireland road trip in 7 days, and yep, this is the final day of that! We’re heading back to Dublin, where it all began.
Your final leg takes you across the island, but don’t rush it. It’s about the journey, not the destination, and that’s especially true today. Make a pit stop in Athlone, where you can straddle both sides of the River Shannon with one foot in the east, one in the west. It’s the perfect halfway point for a scenic coffee or historic castle visit. Roll into Dublin by late afternoon, and grab some last-minute souvenirs or a nice drink to toast to the end of an excellent holiday!
Things to do:
Step into the 13th century at Athlone Castle, with interactive exhibits, towers to climb, and just enough history to make you feel like a medieval legend. Plus, the views over the River Shannon are worth the stop alone.
Grab a pint at Sean’s Bar, which is the oldest pub in Europe! Sip your pint where Vikings once drank. Sean’s Bar has been pouring pints since before some countries even existed. The sawdust floors and ancient walls ooze charm (and probably a few secrets).
Explore Phoenix Park in Dublin. It’s one of the largest city parks in Europe, complete with wild deer, formal gardens, and even a presidential palace. Rent a bike or wander on foot, either way, it’s a breath of fresh air in the middle of the city.
If the weather is working in your favour, walk along the River Liffey. Stroll past iconic bridges, street performers, and historic buildings that tell Dublin’s story with every step. Whether it’s sunrise or twilight, there’s something cinematic about this riverside walk.
Celebrate with dinner in Temple Bar. Wrap up your adventure in Dublin’s liveliest neighbourhood, where the music spills into the streets and every pub feels like a party.
Staying at: Camac Valley Tourist Caravan and Camping Park
The final campsite of your road trip in Ireland! Just outside Dublin, this spot is peaceful yet perfectly placed for city access. Camac Valley Tourist Caravan and Camping Park is clean, green, and has everything you need for one last cosy motorhome night. Bonus: great public transport links make exploring Dublin a breeze without moving your wheels.
22 Green Isle Rd, Corkagh, Dublin, D22 DR60, Ireland
53.304670, -6.415010
And just like that, your 7-day road trip through Ireland comes to a close, full of windswept cliffs, trad pub sessions, ancient castles, and belly laughs in the back of your van. From the wild Atlantic coast to the cobbled charm of Galway and the rolling hills of Connemara, you’ve seen the Emerald Isle the best way possible: on your own four wheels, at your own pace.
Hungry for more of Ireland? Check out our Ring of Kerry road trip or the Wild Atlantic Way itinerary.
Until next time, sláinte, happy camping, and don’t forget to wave at the sheep.
