You are about to embark on the journey of a lifetime. Ireland is a land of poets, storytellers, and musicians. It offers marvelous scenery and first-rate infrastructure for your 2026 adventure. You will find that this best ireland itinerary 6 days covers the most iconic spots and hidden gems. Whether you seek a northern ireland itinerary 6 days or a journey through the wild west, this guide has you covered. History exists in every corner. Beauty sits on every hillside.
Planning Your Ireland Road Trip Itinerary 6 Days
First of all, you must decide how to get around. A car is the most popular choice for a road trip. It allows you to see the countryside at your own pace. Renting a car provides freedom, but you must remember that people drive on the left side of the road in Ireland.
Roads can be very narrow with high hedges or stone walls on either side. Additionally, you should be prepared for sheep to cross the road at any time. If you do not wish to drive, public transport is an option. Train travel is quick and comfortable, but the network does have limits.
The weather is another factor to consider. Ireland has a mild but changeable climate. You might experience “four seasons in one day”. Therefore, you must pack layers and a waterproof coat. May to September offers the longest days and milder conditions. September and October are also wonderful times because the tourists start to leave and the landscapes turn a lush green.
Day 1: The Magic of Belfast City
Your ireland travel itinerary 6 days begins in Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. This city is full of history and unique tours. First, you should take the Black Cab Tour. A local driver will guide you through the turbulent past of the city. You will see powerful murals and the Peace Wall. This tour is the most memorable thing to do in the city.
Later, you can walk to the Grand Opera House. It opened in 1895 and features a striking facade. Just a 5-minute stroll away is the Belfast City Hall. It was built in a grand style and opened in 1906. You can wander the grounds and see statues of Queen Victoria.
For lunch, you should head toward Crumlin Road Gaol. This is the only Victorian prison still standing in Northern Ireland. You can hear dark tales from its 150-year history. On top of that, you must visit Titanic Belfast. You will stand just feet from where the iconic ship was built.
Finally, your evening belongs in the Cathedral Quarter. This area has cobblestone streets and a lively culture. You can visit Kelly’s Cellars, an old-school Irish pub with a unique interior. Similarly, Madden’s is home to what many call the best pint of Guinness in the city.
Where to Stay in Belfast:
- Luxury: The Merchant or The Fitzwilliam.
- Mid-range: Ten Square Hotel or Maldron Hotel.
Day 2: The Incredible Causeway Coast
On day two, you leave the city and tackle the Causeway Coastal Route. This is a highlight of any ireland road trip itinerary 6 days. Your first stop is Carrickfergus Castle. It is one of the best-preserved castles in Ireland and dates back to the 12th century.
Next, you will follow the coast road to Glenariff Forest Park. It is the jewel of the Antrim Coast. You can take a short walk to see the waterfall in under 20 minutes. Later, you will reach the little town of Cushendun. You should see the Cushendun Caves, which were a filming location for Game of Thrones.
For a tasty break, stop in the seaside town of Ballycastle. You can grab fish and chips at Morton’s by the harbor. After lunch, head to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. It is suspended 25 feet above the crashing sea. Crossing it is a real adventure.
You will then reach the Giant’s Causeway. This natural wonder has over 40,000 basalt pillars. It formed over 60 million years ago. According to legend, the hero Fionn Mac Cumhaill built it. Finally, you must see Dunluce Castle. These cliffside ruins date back to the 1500s. You will then drive to Derry City to spend the next two nights.
Day 3: The Historic Walled City of Derry
Derry is the only completely walled city in Ireland. It is brimming with culture and heritage. First of all, you should take the Bloody Sunday and Bogside Tour. This 1.5-hour tour helps you understand the complex past of the city. You will see iconic murals that tell a deep story.
Gradually, you can move toward the Museum of Free Derry. It opened in 2007 and explores the history of the city from 1968 to 1972. Later, visit St. Columb’s Cathedral. It dates back to 1633 and dominates the skyline.
You must walk the Derry City Walls. These walls are 400 years old and have never been breached. As you walk the mile-long path, you will see old cannons like the Roaring Meg. Additionally, fans of the show Derry Girls will want to see the mural at the side of Badgers Bar.
The Tower Museum is another great stop. It offers panoramic views from the top. Also, visit the Guildhall, a neo-gothic beauty built in 1887. Finally, stroll across the Peace Bridge. It opened in 2011 and connects the two sides of the city. For dinner, Browns Bonds Hill offers fine dining, while Badgers has good pub food.
Day 4: The Stunning Inishowen Peninsula
On day four, you cross into County Donegal. You will explore the Inishowen 100, which is the Donegal version of the Ring of Kerry. First, visit Grianan of Aileach. This ancient hill fort dates back to 1700 BC. You will see views across Lough Swilly and Lough Foyle from the top.
Next, head to Buncrana Beach for a relaxing walk. Then, drive to Fort Dunree. It was built in the early 1800s to guard the coast. You will also drive through the Mamore Gap. This is one of the steepest roads in Ireland. It rewards you with breathtaking views from the 800-foot summit.
Later, visit the Glenevin Waterfall. It is a 40-foot cascade and a true hidden gem. You should also see the Doagh Famine Village. This open-air museum takes you through 200 years of Irish history.
Your journey continues to Malin Head, the most northerly point in Ireland. You can see Lloyds Signal Tower and the EIRE 80 sign. On top of that, Kinnagoe Bay offers a golden sandy beach framed by green cliffs. You will spend the evening in Letterkenny, a lively town with warm hospitality.
Where to Stay in Letterkenny:
- Mid-range: Radisson Blu Hotel or Station House Hotel.
- Budget: Mel’s or Mount Errigal Hotel.
Day 5: Northwest Donegal and Wild Parks
Day five sees you explore a big chunk of Northwest Donegal. First, head to Portsalon Beach. It was once named the second most beautiful beach in the world. Then, visit Fanad Head Lighthouse. It dates back to 1817 and looks magical against the Atlantic.
You can also visit Boyeeghter Bay, which is a popular remote spot. However, you must be careful because the currents are dangerous there. Later, take a stroll on Marble Hill beach.
The highlight of the day is Glenveagh National Park. It covers 16,000 hectares of lakes and mountains. You must see Glenveagh Castle, built between 1867 and 1873. There are several walking trails, such as the Derrylahan Nature Trail.
Finally, you will head to the charming village of Ardara. It is known for its traditional pubs and rural Irish life. For dinner, Nancy’s is a staple that serves fresh oysters. You can find live music at Doherty’s or The Corner House.
Day 6: Slieve League and the Return Journey
The final day of your ireland itinerary 6 days is full of drama. You will drive through the Glengesh Pass. This winding mountain path is an unforgettable adventure. Take your time, as visibility can be tricky on the bends.
Next, visit the Assaranca Waterfall. It is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Donegal. Just around the corner is Maghera Beach and Caves. The caves are only accessible at low tide. Legend says people once sheltered there from the Vikings.
For lunch, head to Glencolumbkille. Afterward, visit Malin Beg, also known as Silver Strand. This horseshoe-shaped bay is enclosed by towering cliffs. You must climb 174 steps to reach the sand.
Then, you will reach the Slieve League Cliffs. These are the highest sea cliffs on mainland Ireland. They tower over 600 meters above the sea. That is three times higher than the Cliffs of Moher. On a clear day, the views are out of this world.
Before you head back to Belfast, stop in Donegal Town for dinner. Visit Donegal Castle, built in 1474 by the O’Donnell family. You can find excellent food at Blas or the Olde Castle Seafood Bar. Your journey ends with a 2.5-hour drive back to Belfast.
Expert Variations for Your Trip
If you want to know what to see in ireland in 5 days, you could focus on a shorter loop from Dublin to Galway. This would include Trinity College and the Cliffs of Moher. If you have more time and wonder what to see in ireland in 7 days, you could add the Ring of Kerry or Dingle Peninsula to your route.
For those looking for what to see in ireland in 4 days, a city-based stay in Dublin with day trips to Wicklow or Kilkenny is a great choice. Though some people prefer a fast trip, others like a “slow trip” where they stay longer in each village. Similarly, an ireland one day series could focus solely on Dublin’s highlights like the Guinness Storehouse and the Book of Kells.
Important Tips for 2026 Travel
- Money: The Republic of Ireland uses the Euro, but Northern Ireland uses the Pound Sterling.
- VAT Refunds: If you are from a non-EU country, you may be able to get a partial refund on tax.
- Driving: Always yield to the right at roundabouts. Do not use a car in Dublin city center if you can avoid it.
- Connectivity: There are more mobile phones than people in Ireland. You can easily buy a pre-paid SIM card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it possible to visit Ireland without a car?
Yes. You can use a combination of trains and buses to reach major cities. Train travel connects Dublin to Belfast, Galway, and Cork. However, reaching remote spots like the Slieve League cliffs or small fishing villages is much harder without your own vehicle.
What is the best way to see the Book of Kells?
You should book your tickets in advance for the Book of Kells Experience at Trinity College. This 1,200-year-old manuscript is a must-see cultural treasure. The tour includes the Long Room, which houses over 200,000 rare books.
How much does a typical short trip cost?
For a 5-day tour, you might spend between $1,200 and $2,490 per person, depending on the level of luxury. Staying in B&Bs can help reduce costs compared to high-end hotels.
What are some hidden gems for history lovers?
The Caves of Keash in County Sligo are ancient limestone caves steeped in mythology. Similarly, the Hook Peninsula in Wexford features the world’s oldest operational lighthouse. Gougane Barra in Cork offers a serene lake with a tiny island oratory.
Concluding Words
This ireland itinerary 6 days provides a perfect mix of city culture and wild nature. You will see the history of Belfast, the wonders of the Causeway Coast, and the rugged beauty of Donegal.
Ireland is a place that makes you dream about coming back before you have even left. You will carry these memories forever.
