The Irish midlands is a charming region, yet it’s often overlooked by travellers who flock to the country’s many coastal wonders. That’s understandable considering how many of them there are! But if you’re planning a road trip through Ireland, we think that there are some other less-travelled routes that are worthy of your consideration as well. 

You’ve picked up your rental car from Dublin Airport and have made your way across the island of Ireland to beautiful Galway. You’ve heard all about the amazing scenic drive from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher and now you’re ready to embark! But wait, there’s so many places to see along the way it can be hard to choose

Whatever type of Irish road trip you’re planning, there are many different routes you can take to experience this wild, rugged country up close. 

While the Wild Atlantic Way tends to garner the most attention as one of the world’s most iconic bucket list drives, for the history buffs and lovers of Irish mythology and folklore among you, a road trip along Ireland’s Ancient East is real must do.

Want a real flavour of Ireland on a route that’s fun to drive and has breathtaking scenery to boot? In the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland has one of the best road trip routes in the world. Coastlines and castles, beaches and harbour towns, cliff walks and abbeys, mountain ranges and rugged islands – all this lies ahead of you (and much, much more) as you explore Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.

Nothing beats the freedom of exploring a new place on your own personalised road trip. The freedom of the open road, set against a backdrop of the picturesque Irish countryside. Stopping off where you like, seeing exactly what you like, meeting welcoming locals and enjoying Ireland at your own pace – sounds like the perfect holiday to us! 

That’s why we’ve put together our ultimate Irish road trip guide, complete with route maps and our top picks for where to stop along the way. Whether you've got a few days, a whole week or even longer to spend here, these …