Exploring the East of Ireland

Tourist Information

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The East of Ireland holds many treasures that can really only be appreciated when touring by car.

With Dublin as a base, there is an excellent choice of drives whether you want to see medieval castles, ancient Celtic sites, beautiful gardens, or if you just want to take a relaxing drive. There are countless car rental options available in Dublin if you have not brought your own vehicle.

Thrifty Car Rentals Ireland offers excellent value for money and a range of vehicles to choose from. It has outlets at Dublin Airport and Dublin city centre.Once you have transport organised it is time to set off. Here are just a few possible driving routes to get you started:

Gardens drive
You can visit some of the most beautiful gardens in Ireland in just one or two days while taking in the beauty of the Wicklow Mountains and south Kildare. From Dublin, head south past Bray and into the Wicklow Mountains to discover Killruddery, Powerscourt, the National Gardens Exhibition Centre, Victoria’s Way and Mount Usher. From there, head for Glendalough and on to Kildare where you will find the National Stud and Japanese Gardens.

Historical tour of Meath and Louth
North of Dublin you will find counties Meath and Louth, which are steeped in fascinating history. You can truly experience Ireland through the ages as you explore this region. Check out the 3,000 year-old passage grave of Newgrange; visit the seat of the old High Kings of Ireland at Tara; and explore amazing medieval castles such as Trim Castle.

County Laois Tour
Discover the magic of Ireland’s midlands with a driving tour of County Laois. View the many medieval castles and old monasteries in the area as you take in towns such as Rathdowney, Ballacolla, Durrow and Donaghmore.

For more information about touring around Ireland, please visit our touring Ireland information page.