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Best Dublin RV Itinerary for rv rental for couples — Overview
A romantic RV trip starting from Dublin offers unparalleled freedom to explore Ireland's breathtaking landscapes and rich historical sites at your own pace. The beauty of renting an RV is the flexibility it provides – you can wake up to ocean views, enjoy a picnic lunch by a serene lake, and discover charming villages off the beaten path. For couples, this journey promises intimacy and shared adventure, creating memories that last a lifetime. For ideas you can prep on the road, watch our RV-friendly recipes playlist on YouTube.
When planning your romantic Irish getaway, a recommended duration is a minimum of 7 days to truly immerse yourselves in the experience. However, for a more in-depth exploration that allows for spontaneous detours and relaxation, a 14-day itinerary is ideal. Across these durations, expect to cover approximately 700-1500 km, depending on the chosen route. The focus is always on enjoying the scenic drives and the journey itself, rather than rushing from one point to another. Avi Bandana always recommends travel that prioritizes experience over mileage; think of it as slow travel at its finest.
The best seasons for an RV adventure in Ireland are generally late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October). During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, with fewer crowds than the peak summer months, offering a more tranquil experience. You'll find that the landscapes are at their most vibrant during these shoulder seasons, providing the perfect backdrop for a romantic escape.
7-Day Classic Route in Dublin
Embark on a classic 7-day RV itinerary from Dublin, designed for couples seeking a blend of history, natural beauty, and charming Irish culture. This route offers a taste of Ireland's diverse offerings without covering excessive distances, allowing for relaxed exploration and romantic moments.
Day 1: Dublin to Glendalough, Wicklow Mountains (50 km)
Begin your adventure by heading south from Dublin into the picturesque Wicklow Mountains, often called the 'Garden of Ireland'. Your destination is Glendalough, an ancient monastic settlement founded in the 6th century. Spend the afternoon exploring the monastic ruins, the round tower, and enjoying the stunning glacial valley with its two lakes. Consider a gentle hike to soak in the serene atmosphere. A great place to park your rented RV for the night is Roundwood Caravan & Camping Park.
Day 2: Glendalough to Kilkenny (100 km)
Continue your journey southwest to the medieval city of Kilkenny. This historic city is a delight for RV travelers, offering a compact city center that's easy to navigate. Explore Kilkenny Castle, wander through the 'Medieval Mile' with its craft shops and traditional pubs, and perhaps enjoy some locally brewed craft beer. For overnighting, Tree Grove Caravan & Camping Park is a convenient option.
Day 3: Kilkenny to Cashel, Co. Tipperary (70 km)
Your next stop is Cashel in County Tipperary, dominated by the iconic Rock of Cashel. This magnificent collection of medieval buildings set on a limestone outcrop offers breathtaking views and a deep dive into Ireland's history. Park your RV at Cashel Camping & Caravan Park for a comfortable stay.
Day 4: Cashel to Cork City / Kinsale (90 km)
Head south to County Cork, a region known for its vibrant culture and culinary scene. Explore the bustling English Market in Cork City, a food lover's paradise. Afterwards, drive a short distance further to the charming coastal town of Kinsale, renowned as the gourmet capital of Ireland. The Old Head of Kinsale Campsite offers spectacular views and a perfect spot to relax.
Day 5: Kinsale to Waterford City (120 km)
Follow the scenic southern coastline east towards Waterford, Ireland's oldest city. Discover the Viking Triangle, visit Reginald's Tower, and perhaps witness the exquisite craftsmanship at the House of Waterford Crystal. Dunmore East Holiday & Leisure Park is a pleasant place to park your RV for the night.
Day 6: Waterford to Wexford Town / Hook Peninsula (70 km)
Journey to County Wexford, focusing on the rugged beauty of the Hook Peninsula. Here you'll find the world's oldest operational lighthouse, a truly impressive structure. Enjoy coastal walks, fresh seafood, and the dramatic cliffside scenery. Curracloe Holiday Park is a good choice for your overnight stay.
Day 7: Wexford to Dublin (150 km)
Enjoy a final scenic drive along the east coast back to Dublin. Allow ample time to return your rented RV, reflecting on the incredible journey you've shared. This route provides a comprehensive yet manageable introduction to the Emerald Isle for couples.
14-Day Extended Journey in Dublin
For a more comprehensive exploration of Ireland's magic, consider this 14-day itinerary, allowing for deeper immersion into the country's diverse landscapes and historical richness. This extended journey offers a more relaxed pace, perfect for couples seeking to truly connect with the places they visit.
Days 1-3: Dublin & Ireland's Ancient East (approx. 200 km)
Begin in Dublin, exploring its rich history and vibrant culture. Then, venture north to the Boyne Valley to discover ancient sites like Newgrange and the Hill of Tara, followed by a journey south into the Wicklow Mountains to explore Glendalough and the stunning Powerscourt Estate. Conclude these initial days by heading towards Kilkenny, a jewel of medieval Ireland.
Days 4-6: Southern Charm & Coastal Routes (approx. 250 km)
From Kilkenny, make your way to the historic Rock of Cashel in Tipperary. Continue your exploration to County Cork, visiting the lively city and its famed English Market before settling into the charming seaside town of Kinsale, celebrated for its culinary delights and picturesque harbor views.
Days 7-9: Kerry's Kingdom & Wild Atlantic Way Start (approx. 250 km)
Head southwest to Killarney, the gateway to Killarney National Park. Here, you can explore the park's breathtaking scenery, perhaps taking a jaunting car ride, and embark on a partial loop of the iconic Ring of Kerry. Continue to the ruggedly beautiful Dingle Peninsula, known for its dramatic coastal scenery and charming villages.
Days 10-12: The Iconic West Coast (approx. 280 km)
Travel north from Dingle, perhaps taking a ferry across the Shannon Estuary to County Clare. Your route will lead you to the majestic Cliffs of Moher and the unique, lunar-like landscape of The Burren. Continue to the vibrant city of Galway, a hub of traditional music and culture, and begin your exploration of the wild beauty of Connemara.
Days 13-14: Connemara & Return to Dublin (approx. 250 km)
Dedicate time to explore the dramatic and rugged beauty of Connemara National Park, including charming towns like Clifden and the exquisite Kylemore Abbey. Begin your journey back towards Dublin, perhaps choosing a route through the heart of the Midlands for a final taste of rural Ireland before returning your rented RV, filled with unforgettable memories.
Recommended RVPlan Trip for Dublin
For couples seeking an immersive and comprehensive adventure from Dublin, the '
Using the RV PLANET routes allows you to visualize your entire trip, including all the necessary stops and daily driving, making budgeting and planning straightforward. You can itemize and track every expense along the way, ensuring you stay within your budget. On the routes offered through RV PLANET routes, you can itemize and track every expense along the way for easy budgeting.
Must-See Stops Along the Way (Avi Bandana Picks)
To truly enrich your Irish RV adventure, Avi Bandana, a seasoned motorhome traveler, shares some of his favorite authentic experiences that go beyond the usual tourist trail.
- Connemara Smokehouse (Local Industry): Avi Bandana highly recommends a visit to this authentic smokehouse. It's a fantastic opportunity to witness traditional salmon smoking methods and sample some truly delicious local produce. It’s a genuine taste of coastal Irish craftsmanship and a perfect stop for foodies.
- Bunratty Castle & Folk Park (Traditional Visit): Step back in time at Bunratty Castle, an incredibly well-preserved 15th-century fortress, and its adjacent Folk Park. The park recreates 19th-century village life with authentic buildings and costumed characters, offering a captivating glimpse into Ireland's past.
- A Traditional Irish Market (Traditional Market): To truly connect with the local culture and find unique souvenirs, seek out a local farmers' or craft market. Towns like Galway or Kilkenny often host these vibrant markets where you can sample regional foods, meet local artisans, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
- Traditional Irish Restaurant / Fine Dining: Ireland's culinary scene is flourishing, offering everything from hearty pub fare to exquisite fine dining. Avi Bandana suggests seeking out a cozy, traditional pub for authentic, comforting dishes, or indulging in a more upscale experience in a coastal town like Kinsale for the freshest seafood. Don't miss the opportunity to savor local flavors!
Daily Driving Distances & Drive Times in Dublin
When planning your RV journey through Ireland, especially from Dublin, Avi Bandana recommends a relaxed pace, averaging no more than 100 miles or 150 km per day. This ensures ample time for exploration, spontaneous stops, and enjoying the scenery without feeling rushed. Remember, the goal is to experience Ireland, not just to cover ground.
Irish roads, particularly the scenic routes and country lanes outside the main motorways, are often narrower and more winding than major highways elsewhere. This necessitates slower speeds and careful driving. Always be mindful of the size of your rented RV and adjust your pace accordingly. For example:
- Dublin to Glendalough: Approximately 1 hour drive (50 km). This relatively short journey allows for a full day of hiking and exploring the monastic site without feeling pressured for time.
- Kilkenny to Cashel: Roughly 1 hour drive (70 km). This manageable distance permits a leisurely morning exploring Kilkenny's medieval streets before heading to the iconic Rock of Cashel.
- Galway to Clifden (Connemara): Around 1.5 hours drive (80 km). This route showcases stunning Connemara landscapes, best enjoyed with frequent stops to admire the bogs, mountains, and coastline.
Be aware of potential tolls, especially when driving the M50 ring road around Dublin, which operates on a barrier-free electronic toll system. Ensure you understand how to pay these tolls online or through a designated service to avoid penalties. For RVs, speed limits may differ from standard cars; typically, they are around 80 km/h (50 mph) on national roads and 100 km/h (62 mph) on motorways, but always check local signage for the most accurate information.
Best RV Class for This Itinerary — Couple & Family Picks
Choosing the right RV is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable trip in Ireland, especially considering the unique road conditions. Bandana Caravan offers a range of motorhomes to suit different needs.
Ideal for Couples: Class B - Camper Van
For couples, Bandana’s Class B - Camper Vans are highly recommended. These are particularly well-suited for navigating Ireland's often narrow and winding country roads, offering greater maneuverability and ease of parking in villages and at attractions. These compact units typically average 5.8 meters in length, comfortably accommodate 2.7 adults (providing a little extra space), and offer excellent fuel efficiency, usually around 8-10 Liters/100 km. They provide all the necessary amenities for a cozy and romantic journey.
Ideal for Families: Class C - Alcove
For families or those needing a bit more space, the Class C - Alcove motorhome provides dedicated sleeping areas and more room to relax. Averaging 7.5 meters in length, these units typically sleep 4.4 adults comfortably (perfect for a family of four with some extra space) and consume about 10-12 Liters/100 km. They offer a great balance of space and manageability for exploring Ireland.
To streamline your planning and ensure you get the most out of your trip, consider Bandana’s 'Rent & Plan' service. This service seamlessly combines your RV rental with a professionally crafted itinerary by travel experts, plus full access to user-friendly trip-planning software. It takes the guesswork out of the process, guaranteeing a smooth, enjoyable, and tailored journey.
How much does it cost to rent a camper in Ireland?
The cost of renting a campervan or motorhome in Ireland varies considerably, influenced by several key factors including the type of vehicle, the season of travel, the duration of your rental, and any additional amenities or services included. Typically, you can expect daily rental costs to range from €80 for smaller, more basic models during the low season to upwards of €200 or more for larger, luxury motorhomes during peak summer months.
Seasonal Fluctuations: Prices are highest during the peak summer months (June-August) when demand is greatest. The shoulder seasons, namely spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October), often present the best value, combining pleasant weather with more moderate pricing. Winter rentals can be the most budget-friendly but come with considerations for weather and shorter daylight hours.
Vehicle Size & Class: Smaller campervans, such as Class B models, are generally more affordable than their larger counterparts, like Class A or Class C motorhomes. This is due to factors like fuel consumption, base vehicle cost, and amenities offered.
Duration of Rental: Many rental companies offer reduced daily rates for longer rental periods. Opting for a 7-day or 14-day trip often proves more cost-effective per day compared to shorter weekend rentals.
Additional Costs: Beyond the base rental rate, remember to factor in mandatory insurance coverage, optional extras like GPS units, bedding kits, or outdoor furniture, potential one-way rental fees if you plan to drop off the vehicle in a different location, and any applicable cleaning charges.
Comprehensive Budgeting: It’s essential to budget beyond the rental cost itself. Plan for fuel expenses, which will depend on your daily mileage and the RV’s fuel efficiency (averaging 10-12 Liters/100 km). Factor in road tolls, particularly around major cities like Dublin (M50 motorway). Campsite fees can range from €25-€50 per night, depending on the facilities offered. Finally, allocate funds for attraction entrance fees, groceries, and dining out to fully enjoy your Irish experience.
Is it legal to sleep in a camper van in Ireland?
The legality of sleeping overnight in a campervan or motorhome in Ireland, often referred to as 'wild camping', exists in a bit of a grey area. While there isn't a nationwide ban, it often depends on specific local bylaws and whether you have obtained permission to park on private land. It's crucial for RV travelers to be aware of these nuances.
Local Bylaws: Many local authorities in Ireland have implemented bylaws that prohibit overnight parking or sleeping in vehicles in specific areas. This is particularly common in popular tourist destinations, urban centers, and scenic coastal regions where uncontrolled overnight stays can impact the local environment and infrastructure. Always look for local signage regarding parking restrictions.
Private Land: Generally, it is perfectly acceptable to sleep on private land, provided you have secured the express permission of the landowner beforehand. A friendly conversation and asking permission is always the best approach.
Designated Campsites: The most straightforward and legally sound option for overnight RV parking is to utilize Ireland's network of official caravan and camping parks. These sites offer essential amenities such as electricity hook-ups, water supply, waste disposal facilities, and showers, ensuring a comfortable and secure stay. Booking these sites in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Responsible Guidelines: If you are fortunate enough to find a situation where sleeping in an undesignated spot is permissible (with landowner permission), it is paramount to adhere strictly to 'Leave No Trace' principles. This means packing out all rubbish, using designated toilet facilities wherever possible, respecting the natural environment, and being considerate of local communities.
Where can you park an RV in Ireland?
Parking an RV in Ireland involves a few key considerations to ensure legality and convenience. RVs can typically be parked in designated campsites, some public car parks (primarily for daytime use), and on private property with the owner's explicit permission.
Official Campsites: These are the most recommended and convenient locations for overnight RV parking. They provide essential facilities such as electricity hook-ups, fresh water points, waste disposal stations, and showers. Booking your spot in advance is highly advisable, especially if you are traveling during the peak season (summer months) to guarantee availability.
Public Car Parks: Many towns and attractions offer car parks that can accommodate larger vehicles like RVs. However, spaces specifically for oversized RVs might be limited, and overnight parking is frequently prohibited. Always check the signage carefully for any restrictions on vehicle length, height, or overnight stays.
Motorhome Aires/Stops: While less common in Ireland than in some other European countries, a growing number of towns are establishing designated motorhome parking areas. These 'Aires' or 'stops' sometimes offer basic services for a small fee and provide a convenient alternative to traditional campsites.
Private Land: With the explicit permission of the landowner, you can park your RV and potentially stay overnight on private property. This can offer unique and secluded camping experiences, allowing you to connect more intimately with the Irish countryside.
Avoidance: It's important to avoid parking in residential areas, blocking access points to properties, or on narrow roads where your vehicle could impede traffic or create a hazard. Never assume that roadside parking is acceptable for overnight stays; always err on the side of caution and seek designated locations.
Can you sleep in a motorhome on the road?
Sleeping in a motorhome directly on public roads in Ireland is generally discouraged and often not legally permitted, particularly in urban or residential areas. This is due to local parking regulations and safety concerns that apply to all vehicles, especially larger ones.
Legality Varies: While there isn't a blanket nationwide ban on roadside sleeping for motorhomes, many local authorities enforce bylaws that prohibit overnight parking in undesignated areas. It's essential to be aware of local signage and regulations to avoid fines.
Safety and Security: Parking overnight on the roadside can present significant security risks. Factors like traffic noise, lack of lighting, and potential for vandalism can make these spots less safe and comfortable compared to designated camping areas.
Designated Overnight Spots: For both safety and legality, prioritizing official campsites or designated motorhome parking areas that cater to overnight stays is the most sensible approach.
Avoiding Obstruction: Regardless of the location, ensure your motorhome does not obstruct traffic flow, pedestrian pathways, or scenic viewpoints. Such obstructions can lead to fines or requests to move on.
Respect Local Areas: Always be mindful of local residents and avoid generating excessive noise or leaving waste behind. Respecting the communities you visit is paramount to ensuring RV travel remains welcome.
What do I need to know about renting an RV?
Renting an RV for your Irish adventure requires a bit of preparation. You'll need to consider the vehicle's size in relation to Ireland's roads, the transmission type (manual is common), comprehensive insurance coverage, understanding the rental agreement, and obtaining any necessary permits like an International Driving Permit.
Vehicle Suitability for Irish Roads: Given the often narrow and winding nature of Irish country roads, it's advisable to opt for a smaller campervan, such as a Class B model, or a compact semi-integrated motorhome (Class SI). These are generally easier to maneuver and park, making for a less stressful driving experience. Always consider the specific dimensions of the RV when booking.
Transmission Type: Many rental RVs in Ireland are equipped with manual transmission. If you are not comfortable driving a manual vehicle, it is crucial to specifically request an automatic transmission when booking. Be aware that automatic options may have limited availability, so booking well in advance is recommended.
Insurance Coverage: Thoroughly understand what your rental insurance covers. This includes the collision damage waiver (CDW), the excess amount you would be liable for in case of damage, and third-party liability. It's also wise to consider additional travel insurance to cover personal belongings and potential medical emergencies.
International Driving Permit (IDP): If your driver's license is not issued by an EU/EEA country, you will likely need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your home country's license. Check the specific requirements with your rental provider and local authorities.
Pre-Trip Checklist: Before you depart, it's wise to book your campsites in advance, especially if traveling during peak season, as popular spots fill up quickly. Familiarize yourself with Irish road signs and driving rules, understand local customs (like the friendly greetings you'll receive from locals), and plan your initial route to avoid excessively long driving days.
Emergency Preparedness: Know the local emergency numbers (112 or 999 in Ireland). Keep roadside assistance contacts readily available and understand the basic procedures for common RV issues, such as checking tire pressure, coolant levels, and ensuring your water tanks are adequately filled.
