The Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful coastal routes in the world. Spanning over 2,500 km, this magnificent route stretches from Donegal in the north to Cork in the south. In this guide I'll share a 7-day itinerary with some of my favourite spots from exploring this route over the last 6 years.

Ireland

7-Day Itinerary for Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way

Day 5 - The Ring of Kerry & Skellig Ring

The Burren National Park is a unique and beautiful landscape in Ireland, known for its rocky terrain and diverse plant life. Head towards Ballyvaughan and then take the R477 for a beautiful coastal drive to take in the views. Along the road there are plenty of opportunities to pull in and take in the amazing views. 

This part from the Wild Atlantic Way is probably the most famous panoramic drive in Ireland. It is approximately 179 kilometers (111 miles) long, and it typically takes around 3-4 hours to complete. Head towards Killorglin to start this route. On the way you can stop at Inch beach if you are in the mood for stroll or even do some surfing there. 

I recommend reading a guide like this while planning your trip

1. Transportation: Ireland public transportation system is not that great. If you are just visiting major cities then you'll be fine with trains/buses but this itinerary requires a rental car. If you plan to rent a car, remember that they drive on the left-hand side of the road.

2. Allow plenty of time: Ireland's roads can be narrow and winding, so it's important to allow plenty of time for driving. Plan to drive no more than 2-3 hours per day to avoid feeling rushed and to have time to stop and explore along the way. That is why this itinerary only covers about half of the Wild Atlantic Way as doing the entire route in seven days would be exhausting. 

3. Use Google Maps or consider a GPS or map: While Ireland has good road signage, Google Maps, a GPS or a map can be helpful for navigating the country's winding roads and smaller towns.

4. Be aware of tolls: Some of Ireland's motorways have tolls, so make sure to carry some cash (Euros) to pay the tolls or check if your car rental agency provides an electronic toll tag. A lot of toll places also accept cards by now. 

5. Plan accommodation in advance: Ireland is a popular tourist destination but, so it's important to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the high season.

The route from Dublin to Galway takes you through the heart of Ireland, with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore along the way. The drive takes you through scenic countryside, small towns, and vibrant cities, offering a taste of Ireland's rich culture and history. 

Without any major stops it takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to drive,  so if you leave in the morning you'll have plenty of time to explore the city. 

Okay with that out of the way, let's get into it! 

Galway is a vibrant city located on the west coast of Ireland, known for its colorful buildings, lively music scene, and traditional Irish culture. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Galway:

1. Depart from Dublin and head west towards Galway

Galway is a popular tourist destination with a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets. Here are some suggestions for where to stay in Galway on different budgets:

Connemara is a stunning region located northwest of Galway, known for its rugged coastline, rolling hills, and breathtaking scenery. One day is not a whole lot to explore all that Connemara has to offer, but here is how to spend one day in Connemara:

While the entire region is considered as Connemara the is an official National Park. If the weather permits, you have time and feel up for a hike you can hike Diamond Hill from the visitor centre. This is a popular hiking spot with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

From Galway head towards Clifden. A little more than half way to Clifden turn right onto R344 to drive along Lough Inagh and take in the incredible scenery . From there continue north towards the N59, then. turn left to head to Kylemore Abbey. 

Kylemore Abbey is a stunning castle and Victorian walled garden. You can take a paid tour to see the inside of the Abbey and walled garden or just take a wee break at the Cafe and take in the view from the parking lot. 

Stop in for lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants in town, and soak up the atmosphere of this lively Irish town.

After visiting Kylemore Abbey and Clifden, take a scenic drive along the Sky Road, a winding coastal route that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Stop at one of the many viewpoints along the way to take in the breathtaking scenery and snap some photos.

The Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's most iconic natural attractions and for a good reason! You have a few options to explore the Cliffs of Moher. The most common way is to head to the visitor centre where you have to pay admission to see the cliffs from the top by the watch tower. 

Personally I like heading to Hag's Head just south of the visitor Centre and explore the Cliffs from there. A local farmer offers parking there for just 3 Euros so it is much cheaper than the visitor centre and less crowded too 

1. Take a drive through the incredible landscape

6. Stay in Clifden / Roundstone or head back to Galway

You can also park your car in Doolin and walk from there. The hike from here is a little longer compared to Hag's Head (about 1 hour to 1.5 hours each along the cliffs) but the views are to die for, especially if you do this at sunset. 

Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden

Clifden

Galway City

Burren National Park

Hags Head

Doolin

Dingle Peninsula

Dingle

Ring of Kerry

Muckross House

Torc Waterfall

Killarney

Skellig Ring

Portmagee

Cork City

English Market

Connemara National Park

Taaffes Bar

The Quays Bar and Restaurant

The Latin Quarter

Galway Cathedral

Salthill Prom

Galway Market

The Crane Bar

Savoy Hostel Galway City Centre

The Connacht Hotel

The g Hotel & Spa