From the Wild Atlantic Way to the Giant's Causeway, Ireland's landscapes blend dramatic coastlines, historic cities, and charming villages.

These four itineraries—ranging from 4 to 6 days—unlock the island's best sights, flavors, and hidden gems.

Wild Atlantic Way

Route: Bantry → Cliffs of Moher → Galway → Westport → Sliabh Liag

Distance: 809km (502 miles)

- Bantry: Tour Bantry House (€12 entry), feast on Bantry Bay mussels (€18), and drive Priest's Leap for panoramic views.

- Cliffs of Moher: Arrive by 8 AM (€10 parking), hike the Cliff Walk, then dine on Doolin seafood chowder (€12).

- Galway: try oysters at Moran's (€24/dozen), and explore Connemara National Park (free entry).

- Westport: Surf at Carramore Beach (€50 lesson), hike Croagh Patrick, and toast at Matt Malloy's.

- Sliabh Liag: Trek One Man's Pass (free) or cruise below the cliffs (€25 boat tour).

Northern Coast & Causeway

Route: Enniskillen → Glenveagh → Inishowen → Derry → Giant's Causeway

Distance: 324km (201 miles)

- Enniskillen: Kayak Lough Erne (€35 rental), explore Devenish Island (€10 ferry).

- Glenveagh: Hike to Poisoned Glen (free), tour Glenveagh Castle (€8), and spot golden eagles.

- Inishowen: Drive the Inishowen 100, and stargaze at Malin Head.

- Derry: Walk the 17th-century walls (free), visit the Free Derry Museum (€5), and cross the Peace Bridge.

- Giant's Causeway: Walk the hexagonal basalt columns (€13 entry), then tour Bushmills (€25).

- Ballycastle: Cross Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (€13) and ferry to puffin-filled Rathlin Island (€12).

East Coast Cities

Route: Belfast → Newcastle → Brú na Bóinne → Dublin → Powerscourt → Glendalough

Distance: 332km (206 miles)

- Belfast: Explore Titanic Belfast (€24), and admire Cathedral Quarter street art.

- Newcastle: Hike Slieve Donard (free) or bike the Mourne Mountains (€30 e-bike rental).

- Brú na Bóinne: Tour Newgrange's 5,000-year-old tomb (€18) and Knowth's megalithic art.

- Dublin: Visit Trinity College's Book of Kells (€18).

- Powerscourt: Stroll manicured gardens (€12) and hike to Ireland's tallest waterfall (€7).

- Glendalough: Wander monastic ruins (free) and trek the Spinc Trail (3 hours).

Sunny Southeast

Route: Wexford → Waterford → Dungarvan → Cork → Clonakilty

Distance: 242km (150 miles)

- Wexford: Tour Johnstown Castle (€10), relive history at Irish National Heritage Park (€14).

- Waterford: Board a Viking longboat (€12), cycle the Greenway (€20 rental), and explore Reginald's Tower (€5).

- Dungarvan: Devour farmers' market cheeses (€8), tour Dungarvan Brewing Co. (€15).

- Cork: Graze at English Market, and kayak the River Lee (€40).

- Clonakilty: Sample black pudding (€6), tour Clonakilty (€20), and enjoy live folk music.

Travel Tips

- Car rentals: From €40/day (book early for summer).

- Best time: May–September (avoid July crowds).

- Budget: €100–€150/day (hostels, markets, and free hikes).

- Must-pack: Waterproof gear, hiking boots, and a Heritage Island pass (€35 for 40+ attractions).

Conclusion

Ireland's roads lead to cliffside vistas, and ancient ruins. Whether chasing Atlantic waves or Dublin's buzz, these routes promise adventure at every turn. Which journey calls you Lykkers?