Wild Atlantic Way Highlights

Arrive in Dublin Airport, pick up your rental car, and begin your journey westward towards Galway. On the way, stop at the historic Kilbeggan Distillery, the oldest licensed distillery in Ireland, for a short tour and tasting. Continue on to Galway City, where you will check in to the Hardiman Hotel (or similar) on Eyre Square for a two-night stay. In the evening, enjoy dinner at either Aniar, Galway’s Michelin-starred restaurant, or the atmospheric Ard Bia at Nimmos. Afterward, settle in for traditional music and pints at Tigh Neachtain or The Crane Bar.

Overnight Hardiman Hotel, Galway View All

Set off into the rugged landscapes of Connemara, one of Ireland’s most breathtaking regions. Visit the stunning Kylemore Abbey, set beside a lake and surrounded by mountains, and wander through its Victorian Walled Gardens. You may also take a detour along the Clifden Sky Road or pause at Dogs Bay Beach for sweeping Atlantic views. Return to Galway for your second evening in the city, where you can enjoy fresh local seafood at Oscar’s Seafood Bistro or creative, seasonal dishes at Kai. Later, enjoy the lively atmosphere at O’Connor’s Famous Pub in Salthill or head to Taaffes Bar in the heart of the city for traditional Irish sessions.

Included Meals Breakfast

Overnight Hardiman Hotel, Galway View All

Make your way south into County Clare, also known as the Banner County. The highlight today is a visit to the world-famous Cliffs of Moher, where you can stroll along the cliff paths and take in sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean. Continue to Spanish Point and check in to the Armada Hotel (or similar), perched above the ocean. For dinner, choose between Red Cliff Lodge for fine dining and excellent seafood, or the Pearl Restaurant at your hotel. Afterward, enjoy a pint in Cleary’s Bar in nearby Miltown Malbay or soak up the atmosphere at Friel’s Bar.

Included Meals Breakfast

Overnight Armada Hotel, Spanish Point View All

Head to Doolin to catch the Doolin Ferry across to the Aran Islands. Choose between Inisheer (Inis Oírr), the smallest island, with its lighthouse, shipwreck, and charming stone-walled fields, or Inishmore (Inis Mór), the largest island, where you can explore the prehistoric fort of Dún Aonghasa, perched dramatically above the Atlantic. Explore by bicycle or pony and trap for an authentic experience. On your return journey, enjoy a magical view of the Cliffs of Moher from the sea before returning to the Armada Hotel. That evening, dine at O’Connor’s Pub in Doolin or the Ocean Bar at the Armada, followed by a lively trad session at McGann’s Pub or Fitz’s Pub in Doolin.

Included Meals Breakfast

Overnight Armada Hotel, Spanish Point View All

Explore the unique limestone landscape of the Burren National Park, famous for its rare flora and ancient archaeology. A visit to the Aillwee Caves and Birds of Prey Centre is also recommended, offering an underground adventure and fascinating wildlife displays. You might also stop at the iconic Poulnabrone Dolmen, one of Ireland’s most photographed Neolithic tombs. Return to your hotel in Spanish Point for your final evening on the Atlantic coast. Dinner tonight could be enjoyed at the Michelin-starred Wild Honey Inn in Lisdoonvarna or Barrtra Seafood Restaurant near Lahinch, followed by music in McDermott’s Pub in Doolin or a drink at Blakes Corner Bar in Ennistymon.

Included Meals Breakfast

Overnight Armada Hotel, Spanish Point View All

Begin your journey back east towards Dublin. Along the way, stop at Birr Castle Gardens and Science Centre, home to the Great Telescope and beautiful grounds, or at Clonmacnoise Monastic Site on the River Shannon for a fascinating step back into early Christian Ireland. On arrival in Dublin, return your car and check in to the Gresham Hotel (or similar). Spend your late afternoon exploring O’Connell Street and Temple Bar before dinner at The Woollen Mills or The Winding Stair. Round off the evening with a whiskey at The Palace Bar or live music at O’Donoghue’s.

Included Meals Breakfast

Overnight Gresham Hotel, Dublin View All

Take advantage of a Hop-On Hop-Off bus pass to explore Dublin at your own pace. Top highlights include the Guinness Storehouse and Gravity Bar, the EPIC Emigration Museum, Trinity College with the Book of Kells, and the historic Kilmainham Gaol. You may also enjoy some shopping on Grafton Street or a leisurely stroll through St Stephen’s Green. That evening, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at Chapter One or enjoy a more traditional Irish meal at Gallagher’s Boxty House in Temple Bar. Finish your trip with music at The Cobblestone in Smithfield or a classic Dublin pint at Mulligan’s of Poolbeg Street.

Included Meals Breakfast

Overnight Gresham Hotel, Dublin View All

On your final day, enjoy breakfast at your hotel before a private transfer to Dublin Airport, bringing your unforgettable self-drive adventure to a close with memories of dramatic scenery, charming villages, and the spirit of Ireland.

Included Meals Breakfast