updates | March 19, 2026

How long does it take to drive around the island of Ireland?

Ireland is a very small but beautifully formed country. 280 km (175 miles) wide and 486 km (300 miles) long to be exact! This makes it about the size of South Carolina or Maine so you can cover a lot in 7 days. The best way to get around is to drive.

What’s the best way to see Ireland?

In my opinion, the best way to tour Ireland is by self driving. Ideally, plan an Ireland itinerary for enough days to cover a full circularly loop around the island, so that you get to experience a bit of scenery from the Wild Atlantic Way and the rich culture of Ireland’s Ancient East.

How long does it take to go from top to bottom of Ireland?

It was an ambitious haul — Ireland is about 300 miles top to bottom — and we left each county wishing to stay another few days. We meandered from the seaside foodie capital of Kinsale in County Cork up to the Atlantic Ocean inlet of Ardara in Donegal, Ireland’s most northern county.

What should you not miss when visiting Ireland?

Top 10 Ireland Attractions

  • Eat and Drink your way around Dublin.
  • Sample Ireland’s finest at Guinness Storehouse.
  • Kiss the Blarney Stone at Blarney Castle.
  • Admire the colourful architecture in Cobh.
  • Find your Castle.
  • Drive the Wild Atlantic Way.
  • Visit the mighty Cliffs of Moher.
  • Visit Sligo Abbey and Strandhill Beach.

    What is the rainiest month in Ireland?

    Rainfall is extremely common throughout Ireland. The wettest months, almost everywhere are December and January. April is the driest month generally but in many southern parts, June is the driest.

    Is it hard to drive in Ireland?

    Driving in Ireland is not difficult , but you may want to rent an automatic car rather than one with a stick shift. Yes, it is more expensive, but the convenience is worth it if you’re not used to driving on the left.

    What is the prettiest part of Ireland?

    20 of the most beautiful places to visit in Ireland

    1. Cliffs of Moher, Clare. The Atlantic Ocean churns relentlessly below the towering Cliffs of Moher.
    2. Connemara.
    3. Voya Seaweed Baths, Sligo.
    4. Ring of Kerry.
    5. Dingle peninsula, Kerry.
    6. Waterford Greenway.
    7. Wild Atlantic Way.
    8. Giant’s Causeway, Antrim.

    How many days does it take to see Ireland?

    You will need to rent a car in order to tour the island. Ten days is just enough time to visit the highlights of Ireland, including Dublin, the Rock of Cashel, Galway, the Cliffs of Moher, the Dingle Peninsula, and Northern Ireland. It’s an amazing trip, but expect to have busy, action packed days.

    How long does it take to walk the length of Ireland?

    ​To walk the entire 900-km/500-mile trail takes around 40 days. Cycling the trail takes roughly 2 week.

    What is the width of Ireland at its widest point?

    North to south, it’s 486 km (302 miles) long and 275 km (171 miles) wide, going east to west.

    What should you not say in Ireland?

    10 Things Tourists Should Never Say in Ireland

    • “I’m Irish”
    • Quizzing about potatoes.
    • Anything about an Irish car bomb.
    • “Top of the morning to you”
    • “Everything is better in… (insert large city)”
    • “St Patty’s Day”
    • “Do you know so-and-so from…”
    • “I love U2”

      What is the cheapest month to go to Ireland?

      February
      The cheapest month to fly to Ireland is February.

      What is the wettest month of the year in Ireland?

      The wettest months, almost everywhere are December and January. April is the driest month generally but in many southern parts, June is the driest.

      Can you drive in Ireland with US license?

      Can you drive with US license in Ireland? You can drive with a US license in Ireland and Northern Ireland, as long as it is valid while you are traveling. However, you must meet the usual car rental age requirements (check rental car agency for details). The same goes for Canadian and EU citizens.

      Can tourists drive in Ireland?

      Tourists visiting Ireland can drive with a driving licence from any state outside the EU/EEA for up to a year provided the driving licence is current and valid. Note: you need to carry your driving licence or learner permit with you at all times when you are driving in Ireland.

      What is considered rude in Ireland?

      Hugging, touching, or simply being overly physical with others in public is considered inappropriate etiquette in Ireland. Avoid using PDA and respect people’s personal space in Ireland. 5. Finger twitch while driving is polite.

      How do I see Ireland in 5 days?

      5 days in Ireland itinerary

      1. Route 1: Fermanagh, Sligo, Donegal and Derry.
      2. Route 2: Wicklow, Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford and Waterford.
      3. Route 3: Clare, Galway and Mayo.
      4. Route 4: Meath, Louth, Down and Antrim.
      5. Route 5: Cork and Kerry.

      Has anyone walked around Ireland?

      A number of people have walked the trail in its entirety and it is not without challenges! Most hikers are finding wild-camping the best way to do the trail. If you prefer to stay in accommodation such as Bed & Breakfasts, it will require planning along the way and the occasional taxi if the accommodation is off-trail.