Camper Champ compares multiple campervan hire companies in Ireland with Dublin being the key entry point for most travellers.
Rental rates for campervans in Ireland start at about €80/day for small campers and can go up to €170/day or more for larger motorhomes. Popular brands include Causeway Campers, Bunk Campers, Anywhere Campers, McRent and Black Sheep.
Whether you're exploring the breathtaking landscapes, delving into its historical past, or merely enjoying the hospitality of its people, Ireland offers a campervan travel experience that's as rich and varied as the land itself.
Bounded by the wild Atlantic Ocean, Ireland's coastline is a geographical masterpiece, featuring rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and picturesque harbours. Standing imposingly on the western coast, the Cliffs of Moher are among the most awe-inspiring natural attractions, their precipitous edges offering dramatic vistas across the churning Atlantic. Further north, Giant's Causeway's unique, interlocking basalt columns inspire tales of ancient giants and provide another must-see spectacle.
Ireland's landscape is a verdant patchwork of rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and ancient woodland. The countryside, with its unique limestone pavements and endemic flora and fauna in areas like The Burren, paints a fascinating portrait of the country's geology. The many lakes and rivers, including the expansive Lough Neagh and the mighty River Shannon, add another dimension to the country's natural allure.
Ireland's cities are full of character—Dublin, the capital, combines cosmopolitan charm with historic elegance. Visitors can explore its literary heritage by following the footsteps of famous writers like James Joyce and Oscar Wilde or simply enjoy a pint of Guinness in one of the city's many pubs. Cities like Galway, Limerick, and Cork each offer unique charms, from bustling arts scenes to historic landmarks.
Historically, Ireland is a treasure trove. The ancient passage tomb at Newgrange, older than Stonehenge and the Egyptian pyramids, is a testament to it's prehistoric past. Castles and monastic ruins are sprinkled throughout the country, telling tales of ancient kings and saints.
Unlike the UK, the currency in the Republic of Ireland is Euros, so don’t get caught out! Exploring in a motorhome is the best way to capture the true essence.
With scenic driving routes and so much to do, a campervan trip will be full of exciting adventure and fun and here’s how to do it:
Visit Castles: It is thought that Ireland is home to over 30,000 castles and ruins. Although it’s impossible to see them all on your trip, it’s well worth visiting a few and delving deep into history. Places like Nenagh Castle, Fore Abbey, and Kells Priory are all free to visit and give an insight into what Ireland was like in times gone by.
Get a True Taste: Many say Ireland is home to some of the best whiskey, and there’s no better way to get an authentic taste of Ireland than to head to a distillery and taste the liquor for yourself! Most distilleries offer tours, tastings, and experiences for the ultimate complete day out on your campervan trip.
The Wild Atlantic Way: The Republic of Ireland is popular with tourists wanting to drive one of the world's longest coastal routes: the Wild Atlantic Way. The route travels along the west coast of Ireland, through quaint towns and villages to County Cork in the south of the country. The Wild Atlantic Way is the ideal driving route to explore and meet locals in the villages as you travel through.
Adventure to the Coast: It’s no secret that Ireland has an impressive coastline, and staying on a coastal campsite is a great way to admire the waves crashing against the jagged cliffs. The 3,000km coastline is a place to find hidden beaches with white sand and crystal waters.
Climb Mountains: For keen hikers, mountain ranges such as MacGillycuddy’s Reeks are a dream, with peaks such as Carrauntoohil standing proud at over 1,000m tall. There are hikes for all abilities, and if mountains aren’t your favourite, a visit to some of Ireland’s National Parks might tick the box.
Average campsite prices in the Republic of Ireland are around €25, but this varies depending on the time of year and the facilities available. During peak season, booking ahead is essential to guarantee your campsite spots, as they can fill up quickly!
We’ve compiled a list of 10 privately owned campervan-friendly sites in Ireland that are the perfect places to stop on your campervan trip. Staying on campsites is a great way to rest, refresh and get ready to hit the open road again.
This itinerary takes you from the top tip of Northern Ireland, into the Republic of Ireland, down the robust coastline and circling back up the east side of the country. On your campervan tour, you can expect to see mountain peaks, turquoise beaches, and thriving wildlife.
MORE: 14-Day Ireland ItineraryMuch of the land in Ireland is private property, and wild/free camping is illegal without prior approval from the landowner. Some national parks make provisions for free camping; however, always follow leave-no-trace practices. Check at an information centre or online to find out the regulations of a specific area you would like to visit.
There are over 100 campsites in Ireland. They are relatively cheap, starting at around €15 per night.
There are over 100 campsites in Ireland, and most are relatively cheap. Staying at a campsite or caravan park starts at around €15 per night.
To hire a campervan in the Republic of Ireland, you need to hold a valid manual driving licence that you’ve had for a minimum of 2 years. This will allow you to drive a European category B vehicle up to a maximum weight of 3,500kg. If your licence was issued outside of the UK, EEA, or Switzerland, you must obtain an international driving licence.
Yes, while Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom, many campervan hire companies have depots in both the UK and Ireland.
One-way trips are a popular way to travel and a great way to see more on your motorhome getaway.
Note that additional one-way fees may apply. The comparison tool will automatically factor this into your total price.
Note: policies vary from supplier to supplier. Always check the T&Cs for your rental.