Need itinerary: self drive 12-14 days Dublin to Belfast

Hello

We are visiting Ireland in August and i need to book. We would start in Dublin for a few days and then circumnavigate the island clockwise, ending in Belfast (or back to Dublin). Would like to stay in 5-6 places generally for a couple of nights each.  Very keen to get suggestions on where we should stay on the way.

Our original plan was to depart Belfast by ferry for Scotland, dropping a rental car in Belfast.  However that feels quite hard as the landing spot in Scotland seems remote with no car hire options (we could get train to Glasgow), and the ferry is expensive.  It seems simpler, cheaper and easier (but less scenic and interesting) to simply fly to Edinburgh from Belfast (or Dublin).  Any thoughts on this would also be appreciated.

Hello David!

Your trip sounds exciting! 😄
Starting in Dublin and circumnavigating clockwise is a great plan.

Here are some suggestions for places to stay along the way:

1. Dublin: Spend a few days here to immerse yourself in the city's history, culture, and atmosphere. Don't miss attractions like Trinity College, Guinness Storehouse, and Temple Bar.
2. Galway: Galway is a must-visit. Consider staying near Eyre Square or along the Salthill Promenade for easy access to attractions.
3. Cliffs of Moher: While you can't stay right at the cliffs, nearby towns like Doolin or Lahinch offer great accommodations and easy access to the Cliffs of Moher. Exploring the surroundings will be just as beautiful!
4. Killarney: Killarney is famous for its national park, lakes, and outdoor activities. You could choose a hotel or B&B near the town center to explore the area conveniently.
5. Kinsale: Kinsale is renowned for its colorful streets, food scene, and historic sites. It's an excellent spot for relaxation and exploration!
6. Belfast: Wrap up your journey in Belfast. Don’t miss attractions like the Titanic Belfast and the Cathedral Quarter.

Thank you so much

Hi David,

Great to hear that you are coming to Ireland during August and that you are hoping to spend up to two weeks exploring the Emerald Isle!

You mention that you are planning to circumnavigate the Island from Dublin to Belfast, so you will probably want to take the Wild Atlantic Way route when travelling up the west coast.  A few of the attractions mentioned by Elisa are on this route.  If you decide you would like to venture further north to beautiful places such as Cliften, Westport and up to Donegal, where the most northerly point, Malin Head is located, you will then join the scenic Causeway Coastal Route that will take you back to Belfast.

The Causeway Coast and Glens has much to offer in the way of attractions, including the Giant's Causeway a UNESCO World Heritage Site, sandy beaches, friendly pubs, ancient castles, water sports, golf courses and Game of Thrones film locations.

To find out more about the region and what it has to offer, please take a look at our web site: https://www.visitcausewaycoastandglens.com 

Happy planning!
Anne