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.

Although we’re a tiny nation, Ireland has had an enormous cultural impact on the world. It’s also on most people’s travel bucket list for good reason – the wild, emerald green landscape leaves many travellers longing to jump on the next flight to explore Ireland. 

However, planning a trip here takes a little more prepwork than simply booking a flight and packing a bag. While Ireland as a whole is incredibly tourist-friendly, there are a number of things you need to be aware of when visiting for the first time. 

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 …