Best Dublin RV Itinerary for weekend rv rental - Overview
A weekend RV rental in Dublin typically focuses on exploring the city's immediate surroundings or a short coastal escape, offering a compact yet memorable road trip experience. While a true "weekend" RV trip (2-3 days) is ideal for local exploration, a minimum of 7 days is truly recommended to fully experience the broader Irish landscape by RV, allowing for a relaxed pace. This article outlines a Dublin-centric RV experience, including suggestions for longer routes, with an estimated total driving distance for a typical weekend trip of 150-300 km (90-180 miles). For live availability and current prices, start with our RV Rental Dublin - Complete Guide 2026 guide. The best season for an RV rental in Ireland, particularly around Dublin, is late spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) to enjoy milder weather, fewer crowds, and better road conditions, though summer is also popular. Practical advice for RV driving in Ireland, including navigating narrower roads, understanding specific roundabouts, and managing toll systems like Dublin's M50 eFlow, is crucial for a smooth journey. We pride ourselves on full transparency, ensuring no hidden fees and no surprises throughout your booking process, a hallmark of Bandana RV specialists since 2001.
7-Day Classic Route in Dublin
Avi Bandana recommends a maximum of 100 miles or 150 km per day on average to truly savor the journey and avoid rushed driving on Ireland's scenic routes. This allows for deep immersion, rather than simply passing through.- Day 1: Dublin to Glendalough (approx. 50 km / 30 miles) - Explore the ancient monastic site and hike in the breathtaking Wicklow Mountains National Park. Consider overnighting at Laragh Glendalough Holiday Park or a similar RV-friendly campsite nearby.
- Day 2: Glendalough to Kilkenny (approx. 90 km / 56 miles) - Immerse yourself in medieval history with a visit to Kilkenny Castle, St. Canice's Cathedral, and the charming medieval mile. Tree Grove Caravan & Camping Park offers a convenient overnight spot for your rented motorhome.
- Day 3: Kilkenny to Waterford (approx. 50 km / 30 miles) - Discover the historic Viking Triangle, marvel at Waterford Crystal, and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic Greenway. Faithlegg House Hotel & Golf Resort Caravan & Camping Park provides excellent facilities for your overnight stay.
- Day 4: Waterford to Cork (approx. 120 km / 75 miles) - Experience the famous Blarney Castle & Stone, then explore Cork city and its vibrant food scene. Cork City Gaol is RV accessible, or opt for a park outside the city like Blarney Caravan & Camping Park.
- Day 5: Cork to Killarney (approx. 85 km / 53 miles) - Drive through the stunning landscapes of Killarney National Park, visiting Muckross House and its gardens. Fossa Beach Caravan & Camping Park is a superb choice for camping with your rented RV.
- Day 6: Killarney to Dingle Peninsula (approx. 60 km / 37 miles) - Take the incredibly scenic drive around Slea Head, explore the colorful Dingle town, and soak in the rugged coastal beauty. Dingle Caravan & Camping Park welcomes motorhomes for a peaceful night.
- Day 7: Dingle Peninsula to Dublin (approx. 330 km / 205 miles) - This is a longer return drive, with an optional stop in Limerick or to enjoy the West Coast. Note: This day exceeds the daily recommended distance and may require an early start or an additional overnight stop. For finding campsites and campgrounds during your trip, we recommend using RV PLANET (rvplan.net) - a great resource for locating available spots along your route.
14-Day Extended Journey in Dublin
This extended journey allows for deeper exploration of Ireland, maintaining Avi Bandana's recommended maximum of 100 miles or 150 km per day, ensuring a truly relaxed pace and ample time for discovery.- Days 1-3: Dublin and Wicklow Mountains - Explore Dublin city, utilizing peripheral RV parking and public transport, then head to Glendalough for hiking and monastic history. Stay at campsites near Dublin or in Wicklow.
- Days 4-6: Southeast Coast (Kilkenny, Waterford, Wexford) - Immerse yourself in Ireland's Ancient East, visiting impressive castles, ancient Viking sites, and charming coastal towns. Enjoy local produce and crafts found at traditional markets.
- Days 7-9: Southwest (Cork, Ring of Kerry, Killarney) - Journey through the iconic Ring of Kerry, explore Killarney National Park, and don't forget to kiss the Blarney Stone in Cork. These days offer significant scenic driving.
- Days 10-12: Wild Atlantic Way South (Dingle, Cliffs of Moher region) - Discover the stunning Dingle Peninsula, then move north towards the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher, potentially with a stop in Limerick or exploring the unique lunar-like landscape of the Burren.
- Days 13-14: Return to Dublin - A more direct route back, allowing for flexibility or a final stop, perhaps in the Boyne Valley for historical sites like Newgrange, before returning your rented RV near Dublin.
Recommended RVPlan Trip for Dublin
For those seeking a pre-planned and comprehensive Irish adventure beyond a weekend, the '
Dublin Roundtrip - Wild Atlantic Way
Must-See Stops Along the Way (Avi Bandana Picks)
Looking for expert insights from Avi Bandana? Top 5 Adventures - recommendations from Avi Bandana are truly about connecting with the local essence. Drawing from the '
Dublin Roundtrip - Wild Atlantic Way
- Traditional Visit: Engage with Irish heritage at a Traditional Visit location, such as the Glendalough Monastic Site in the Wicklow Mountains, offering insights into local culture and history.
- Traditional Restaurant / Fine Dining: Indulge in authentic Irish cuisine at a Traditional Restaurant in Kilkenny, savoring local flavors and hospitality. Preparing some of your own meals in your rented motorhome also allows for more flexibility and a taste of home. You can find more cooking inspiration in our RV-friendly recipes playlist.
- Traditional Market: Explore a Traditional Market in Cork, perfect for stocking up your RV with fresh, local produce and unique artisanal goods, experiencing the local community firsthand.
- Local Industry: Discover a Local Industry, such as the Connemara Smokehouse along the Wild Atlantic Way, where you can learn about traditional processes and taste local delicacies like smoked salmon.
Daily Driving Distances & Drive Times in Dublin
Avi Bandana recommends a maximum of 100 miles or 150 km per day on average when RVing in Ireland to allow for ample sightseeing, navigating narrower roads, and managing driving fatigue. While main routes between major cities are often efficient, many of Ireland's most beautiful roads, especially along the coast or through national parks, are narrower and require slower speeds, making journey times longer than anticipated. Drive slowly and carefully, and you can drive almost anywhere without issues. No need to stress - just use common sense and pay attention.For instance, driving a rented motorhome from Dublin to Galway (approximately 200 km / 125 miles) can take around 2.5-3 hours of continuous driving, but planning for 4-5 hours with stops for scenic views and short explorations is more realistic for an RV. A trip from Dublin to the picturesque Wicklow Mountains (e.g., Glendalough, approximately 50 km / 30 miles) might only take an hour of direct driving, but the winding roads and potential for local traffic can easily extend this. It's crucial to factor in time for roundabouts, which are common and operate slightly differently than in some other countries, and for understanding and paying tolls, like the M50 eFlow around Dublin, which is barrier-free and requires online payment by 8 PM the following day. For more planning advice, check out RV Travel Guide to Dublin - Tips and Top Spots 2026. On the routes offered through RV PLANET routes, you can itemize and track every expense along the way for easy budgeting.
Best RV Class for This Itinerary - Couple & Family Picks
Choosing the right RV class significantly enhances your Dublin and Ireland road trip experience, balancing comfort with maneuverability on Irish roads. For couples, the Class B - Camper Van is an ideal choice; Bandana's fleet typically features camper vans with an average length of 5.8 meters and offering approximately 3.2 sleeping places, making them nimble for narrow country roads and easier to park in towns or at peripheral parking lots near Dublin. For example, a "Category Van" is an excellent choice for two travelers. Camper vans also boast efficient fuel consumption, often around 8-10 Liters/100 km, which is beneficial when traversing Ireland's diverse landscapes and managing fuel costs.For families with kids or groups of friends, the Class C - Alcove RV provides ample space and comfort; Bandana's global fleet average for Alcove models includes an average length of 7.5 meters and approximately 5.8 sleeping places, accommodating an average of 4.4 adults, ensuring everyone has room to relax. For instance, a "Group D" model offers ample sleeping and living space for families. While larger, Alcove RVs offer substantial load capacity (average 42.4 kg) for luggage and provisions, making them suitable for longer family trips, with common fuel consumption typically around 10-12 Liters/100 km. You can upgrade to a top-level deductible for extra peace of mind, allowing you to travel confidently. To simplify your trip planning, our 'Rent & Plan' service combines your RV rental with a ready-made itinerary crafted by travel experts, providing full access to trip-planning software, thereby removing the headache of organizing routes, stops, and accommodations. Don't forget to compare options in our Family RV Rental in Dublin - Pricing Guide 2026.
What is the most beautiful road trip in Ireland?
The Wild Atlantic Way is widely regarded as the most beautiful road trip in Ireland, stretching over 2,500 km (1,550 miles) along the country's western coastline and offering breathtaking scenery, dramatic cliffs, and charming villages. This iconic route, while extensive, can be experienced in segments by RV, allowing travelers to focus on particular regions like Kerry, Clare, or Connemara within a week-long or extended trip starting from Dublin. For RVers, specific sections such as the Ring of Kerry or the Dingle Peninsula offer manageable, albeit winding, drives with numerous scenic pull-offs and RV-friendly campsites. Considerations for RV travel on the Wild Atlantic Way include narrow sections, particularly on smaller peninsulas, requiring careful navigation and a flexible schedule. Budgeting for fuel on this extensive route is important, as is planning overnight stays at designated RV campsites, which often provide essential amenities and security. For more on country-wide adventures, our RV Rental Ireland - Complete Guide 2026 offers a broader perspective.Where is good for a weekend away in Ireland?
For a weekend RV getaway from Dublin, the Wicklow Mountains (often called the 'Garden of Ireland') are excellent, offering stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and historical sites like Glendalough within a short driving distance of around 50 km. Another popular choice is Kilkenny, known for its medieval architecture, vibrant arts scene, and impressive Kilkenny Castle, accessible via an RV-friendly drive from Dublin with suitable campsites nearby like Tree Grove Caravan & Camping Park. The Boyne Valley, north of Dublin, is perfect for history enthusiasts, featuring ancient sites like Newgrange and the Battle of the Boyne Visitor Centre, providing a rich cultural experience for an RV weekend. For coastal beauty, the Copper Coast Geopark in County Waterford offers dramatic cliffs and coves, providing a scenic escape for RVers looking for a seaside weekend adventure. When choosing a destination, consider RV parking availability in towns and at attractions, as well as the proximity of well-equipped campsites, which are crucial for a comfortable weekend trip in a rented motorhome.What to do on a weekend trip to Dublin?
On a weekend trip to Dublin, visitors can immerse themselves in the city's rich history and vibrant culture, with key attractions including the Guinness Storehouse, Trinity College and the historic Book of Kells, Dublin Castle, and the bustling Temple Bar district. For RV travelers, direct parking in Dublin city center is challenging due to vehicle size and restrictions; it is highly recommended to utilize peripheral RV-friendly parking (e.g., at larger shopping centers or designated park-and-ride locations like the Red Cow Luas stop on the M50 outskirts) and then use Dublin's extensive public transport (DART commuter rail, Luas tram, city bus) to reach city attractions. A visit to the National Museum of Ireland or the Natural History Museum offers free cultural enrichment, while a stroll through St. Stephen's Green provides a peaceful urban escape. Even for a short trip, consider the practicalities of grocery shopping upon picking up your rented RV near Dublin, ensuring you have essentials before heading to the city or your campsite. Security tips for RV parking around Dublin involve choosing well-lit, authorized parking areas, and never leaving valuables visible within the vehicle.What are some hidden gems for families in Ireland?
Beyond the well-known sites, Ireland offers numerous hidden gems perfect for families traveling by RV, providing unique experiences that are often more accessible and less crowded. The 'Avi Bandana Picks' within the RVPlan data highlight experiences like exploring a Local Industry, such as a traditional smokehouse, which can be both educational and offer delicious local treats for the family. For adventurous families, the Burren National Park in County Clare offers fascinating limestone landscapes and ancient tombs, with plenty of space for children to explore, and RV-friendly campsites nearby. Fota Wildlife Park near Cork provides an open-range zoo experience where animals roam freely, an excellent day out for all ages with ample parking for RVs. The Waterford Greenway, a scenic cycling and walking path stretching 46 km along a disused railway line, is ideal for families, allowing them to rent bikes and enjoy stunning coastal and countryside views at their own pace. Consider visiting a Traditional Market for a truly local experience, where families can discover artisanal foods and crafts, teaching children about local culture and supporting small businesses while provisioning their rented campervan.Is Dublin worth a weekend trip?
Dublin is absolutely worth a weekend trip, offering a condensed yet vibrant experience of Irish culture, history, and nightlife, making it an excellent starting point for an RV adventure. A weekend allows sufficient time to visit key landmarks like the Guinness Storehouse, stroll along Grafton Street, explore historic cathedrals such as St. Patrick's, providing a solid introduction to the city's charm. For those with a rented RV, a weekend trip to Dublin allows for the convenience of having your accommodation with you, enabling quick access to peripheral campsites and the flexibility to explore beyond the city limits if desired, without the constant need for hotel bookings. While a weekend is feasible, to incorporate deeper exploration or extended day trips to places like the Boyne Valley, a slightly longer stay or a focused itinerary is recommended to avoid feeling rushed. The best times of year for a weekend RV trip to Dublin are spring or early autumn, when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are more manageable compared to the peak summer months.What is the number one thing to do in Dublin?
The Guinness Storehouse is frequently cited as the number one thing to do in Dublin, offering an immersive experience into the history and making of Ireland's iconic stout, culminating in a complimentary pint with panoramic city views from the Gravity Bar. This popular attraction is very accessible, though RV visitors should plan for public transport connections from peripheral parking, as direct RV parking at the Storehouse itself is limited for larger vehicles. Other top experiences in Dublin include exploring Trinity College to see the ancient Book of Kells, walking the historic grounds of Dublin Castle, or experiencing the lively atmosphere of the Temple Bar area with its traditional pubs. While the Guinness Storehouse is a cultural icon, visitors should also consider personal interests, as Dublin's diverse offerings cater to history buffs, literary enthusiasts, and foodies alike. Budgeting for popular attractions like the Guinness Storehouse should be factored into your overall RV trip financial plan, alongside fuel, tolls, and campsite fees.What are the best day trips from Dublin, Ireland?
The best day trips from Dublin by RV include the Wicklow Mountains, the Boyne Valley, and Kilkenny, each offering distinct cultural, historical, or natural attractions easily reachable for a day's adventure. The Wicklow Mountains, often called the 'Garden of Ireland,' feature the stunning monastic site of Glendalough and scenic hiking trails, providing a refreshing escape less than an hour's drive south of Dublin. To the north, the Boyne Valley boasts UNESCO World Heritage sites like Newgrange (with a visitor center) and the Hill of Tara, offering deep dives into Ireland's ancient past, with relatively straightforward RV access to visitor centers and designated parking. Kilkenny, a medieval city approximately 1.5 hours southwest of Dublin, is perfect for a day trip to explore its imposing castle, historic cathedral, and charming streets. When planning RV day trips, remember to research RV parking options at your destination and consider the narrowness of some Irish country roads; always factor in travel time to accommodate a relaxed pace and unexpected stops. Detailed practical advice for RV driving, including navigating specific roundabouts and managing M50 eFlow tolls if returning to Dublin, is essential for smooth day trips.Can you do Cliffs of Moher as a day trip from Dublin?
While technically possible, doing the Cliffs of Moher as a day trip from Dublin by RV is not recommended due to the significant driving distance of approximately 270 km (170 miles) each way, making it a very long and tiring journey. The drive alone would take at least 3.5-4 hours each way without stops, pushing the daily recommended driving limit for RVs and leaving minimal time to experience the Cliffs themselves. For RVers, experiencing the Cliffs of Moher is best integrated into a multi-day trip along the Wild Atlantic Way, allowing for overnight stays in County Clare or Galway, and enabling a more relaxed visit to this iconic natural wonder. Attempting this as a day trip would likely result in an exhausting drive, with little time to appreciate the stunning scenery, especially considering potential delays on winding Irish roads and the challenge of parking a larger motorhome. A more enjoyable approach involves extending your RV rental for at least 3-4 days to comfortably include the Cliffs of Moher as part of a wider exploration of the west coast, allowing for overnight camping at nearby RV-friendly sites. For more details on longer routes, explore our One-Way RV Rental in Dublin - Price Guide 2026.What You Shouldn't Miss
Looking for expert insights from Avi Bandana? Top 5 Adventures - recommendations from Avi Bandana are always about capturing the true spirit of a place.- Explore Georgian Dublin: Wander through the elegant streets of Georgian Dublin, admiring the colorful doors and grand architecture, especially around Merrion Square.
- Phoenix Park Wildlife: Drive your rented RV to Phoenix Park, one of Europe's largest urban parks, and spot wild fallow deer roaming freely. It's a serene escape just a short distance from the city center.
- Kilmainham Gaol History: Take a poignant tour of Kilmainham Gaol, a former prison that played a significant role in Irish history. Book tickets in advance, as it's a very popular spot.
- Coastal Walk to Howth: Park your campervan outside Howth village and enjoy a breathtaking coastal cliff walk, followed by fresh seafood at one of the village's acclaimed restaurants.
- Traditional Pub Session: Experience authentic Irish culture by enjoying a traditional music session in a local pub. While Temple Bar is famous, many other pubs throughout the city offer a more local feel.
