Self-Drive Ireland: Dublin to Shannon the Scenic Way
Skip the tour bus. Send your clients down Ireland’s southern route with the freedom to pull over for sheep jams, impromptu castles, and pub lunches that turn into new friendships.
A self-drive vacation from Dublin to Shannon offers just the right mix of comfort and spontaneity. Especially when every stop is booked, confirmed, and vetted by a local expert (that’s us).
An Ireland self-drive vacation from Dublin to Shannon gives travelers independence with a safety net. This route winds through Kilkenny, Cork, Kinsale, and Killarney before ending near Shannon Airport. Ideal for nonstop returns to the U.S. Advisors can wow clients with authentic stops, standout stays, and smooth logistics.
Why this route works
Nonstop flights to Dublin and out of Shannon = no backtracking
Easy access to well-paved motorways and scenic byways
Ideal for first-time Ireland travelers. Not too remote, but still rich in story and scenery
A satisfying arc: city, countryside, coast, then the Wild Atlantic Way finale
We build custom itineraries that pair four- and five-star stays with hand-picked experiences: private castle tours, food trails, falconry sessions, even sheepdog demos. Every client gets their own rhythm.
Sample route: 8 nights, slow and scenic
Night 1–2: Dublin
Ease in with two nights in a city center hotel. Clients can skip the car until they’re ready to leave the city. They can see the best of the city, and we can pre-book entrances and activities as needed.
Night 3: Kilkenny
Pick up the rental car and head south. En route you can tour through Wicklow to visit Glendalough or head straight to Kilkenny to explore the city. It offers a compact medieval core, great food, and artisan craft stops.
Night 4–5: Cork or Kinsale
Choose Cork for markets and galleries, Kinsale for harbor charm and seafood. Both work to explore the area. Definitely make time to stop at the Rock of Cashel on your way from Kilkenny.
Night 6–7: Killarney
Gateway to the Ring of Kerry and Dingle Peninsula. We can plan outdoor activities and special experiences tailored to the traveler. Think a jaunting car through the Gap of Dunloe, night kayaking on Kenmare Bay or a private whiskey tasting in Killarney.
Night 8: Adare or Shannon
Unwind in a country house or castle stay that gets you close to Shannon for the flight out. Think whiskey by the fire, not jetlag in a chain hotel. Easy start for a nonstop return flight.
Tip for advisors: driving in Ireland
You drive on the left side in Ireland, so we recommend easy first days and routes that allow for guests to take their time.
It’s much easier that it sounds, and guests typically adjust quickly to driving on the opposite side.
What your clients will love
Flexibility with structure: We build custom road trips with daily route suggestions, alternate stops, and plenty of breathing room.
Local flavor: From farmhouse stays to family-owned distilleries, clients get beyond the brochure version of Ireland.
Stress-free logistics: You get credit for the perfect trip without having to sort car rentals or rural country houses yourself.
Ideal pacing: We avoid the trap of “see it all.” This route invites slow travel and deep connection.
Let’s make this easy
We handle every piece of the itinerary: rental car or private driver, vetted stays, can’t-miss activities, white-labeled docs, and responsive support. All designed to fit your client’s travel style, budget, and goals.