Ireland Travel Guides

Comprehensive information to help you navigate and enjoy the beauty of Ireland

Plan Your Perfect Irish Road Trip

Ireland is a land of stunning landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality. Exploring by car is one of the best ways to experience everything this beautiful island has to offer, from coastal drives along the Wild Atlantic Way to the rolling hills of the midlands and the vibrant cities.

Our comprehensive travel guides provide everything you need to know about driving in Ireland, from practical information about toll roads and driving regulations to recommendations for the most scenic routes and must-visit destinations.

Important Notice

Irish Roads is a strictly informational website. We do not sell any products or services, and we are not affiliated with any hotels, tour operators, or transportation services. Our goal is simply to provide accurate, helpful information to travelers.

Travel Guide Categories

Toll Roads & Transportation

Everything you need to know about Ireland's toll roads, public transportation, and getting around.

Driving in Ireland

Essential information for safely navigating Irish roads, understanding signs, and local driving customs.

Scenic Routes

Discover Ireland's most beautiful driving routes and road trip itineraries.

Practical Information

Useful information to help you prepare for your Irish adventure.

Featured Travel Guides

Most Popular

Complete Guide to the M50 Toll

Everything you need to know about Dublin's barrier-free toll road, including payment methods, rates, and avoiding penalties.

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Essential

First-Time Driving in Ireland

A comprehensive guide for visitors driving in Ireland for the first time, including tips for driving on the left and navigating roundabouts.

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Scenic

Exploring the Wild Atlantic Way

Discover one of the world's most spectacular coastal routes spanning Ireland's west coast from Donegal to Cork.

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Practical

Car Rental Tips for Ireland

What you need to know about renting a car in Ireland, including insurance requirements, hidden fees, and choosing the right vehicle.

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City Guide

Navigating Dublin by Car

Tips for driving in Ireland's busy capital, including parking options, congestion areas, and alternatives to driving.

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Safety

Driving in Irish Weather Conditions

How to stay safe while driving in Ireland's variable weather, from rain and fog to occasional snow and ice.

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Regional Driving Guides

  • Dublin & East
  • Southwest
  • West & Connemara
  • Northwest & Donegal
  • Northern Ireland

Dublin & Eastern Ireland

The east coast of Ireland is home to the bustling capital of Dublin, historic sites like Newgrange, and the beautiful Wicklow Mountains. This region has some of Ireland's best motorways but also several toll roads to be aware of.

Key Driving Information:

  • M50 ring road around Dublin (toll road)
  • Dublin Port Tunnel (variable toll rates)
  • Heavy traffic during rush hours in Dublin area
  • Good motorway connections to other regions

Regional Guides:

Map of Southwest Ireland

Southwest Ireland

The southwest encompasses counties Cork and Kerry, home to the stunning Ring of Kerry, Dingle Peninsula, and the vibrant city of Cork. This region offers some of Ireland's most breathtaking coastal drives.

Key Driving Information:

  • Narrow, winding roads on coastal routes
  • M8 motorway (with toll section near Fermoy)
  • One-way systems on popular tourist routes in summer
  • Mountain passes may close in poor weather

Regional Guides:

Seasonal Driving in Ireland

Spring (March-May)

  • Road Conditions: Generally good, occasional showers
  • Traffic Levels: Moderate, busier during Easter
  • Daylight Hours: 12-16 hours
  • Highlights: Blooming countryside, fewer tourists than summer
    • Spring Driving Tips →

    Summer (June-August)

  • Road Conditions: Best of the year
  • Traffic Levels: High, especially on tourist routes
  • Daylight Hours: 16-18 hours (until 10pm in June)
  • Highlights: Long days, vibrant festivals, best weather
    • Summer Driving Tips →

    Autumn (September-November)

  • Road Conditions: Good, some fallen leaves
  • Traffic Levels: Moderate, quieter after October
  • Daylight Hours: 8-12 hours, darkening earlier
  • Highlights: Beautiful fall colors, harvest festivals
    • Autumn Driving Tips →

    Winter (December-February)

  • Road Conditions: Potentially icy, occasional snow
  • Traffic Levels: Lowest, except holiday periods
  • Daylight Hours: 7-9 hours, dark by 4:30pm
  • Highlights: Cozy pubs, Christmas markets, few tourists
    • Winter Driving Tips →

    Additional Resources

    Printable Guides

    Convenient PDFs you can download and print for your journey.

    Useful Tools

    Interactive tools to help plan your Irish road trip.

    Official Resources

    Links to official information sources in Ireland.

    Latest Updates

    March 15, 2025

    M50 Toll Rates Updated for 2025

    We've updated our M50 toll guide with the latest rates for 2025. There has been a slight increase for all vehicle categories. Read more

    February 28, 2025

    New Section: Driving Electric Vehicles in Ireland

    We've added a comprehensive new guide about charging infrastructure, range planning, and incentives for electric vehicles in Ireland. Read more

    January 20, 2025

    Dublin Traffic Management Changes

    New traffic flow patterns have been implemented in Dublin city center. Our Dublin driving guide has been updated with these changes. Read more

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