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RIT Vacations Says An Irish Road Trip is Just What St. Patrick Ordered

by Bruce Parkinson  March 16, 2026
RIT Vacations Says An Irish Road Trip is Just What St. Patrick Ordered

RIT Vacations’ Jonathan Sargeant on an Irish road trip.

As St. Patrick’s Day celebrations spark renewed interest in Ireland travel, 25-year-old Canadian tour operator RIT Vacations says a growing number of travellers are discovering that the best way to explore the Emerald Isle is by hitting the open road.

A specialist in guided, custom and self-drive vacations in Ireland, Scotland, England, and Wales, RIT Vacations says the latter category is becoming one of the fastest growing ways to experience Ireland, giving travellers the freedom to explore beyond major cities and discover the country’s most scenic regions. 

“Ireland is perfectly suited for road trips,” said Jonathan Sargeant, the company’s Director of Sales.

“Travellers can follow winding coastal roads, stop in small villages, and spend more time exploring landscapes that make Ireland one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. ”

Rather than rushing from one landmark to another, Sargeant said travellers are increasingly embracing slow travel, spending several days exploring regions such as:

Conor Duffy and his father Ian Duffy, founder of RIT Vacations – Royal Irish Tours. The company is celebrating 25 years in 2026.

The Dingle Peninsula

One of Ireland’s most spectacular coastal regions, known for dramatic Atlantic views, historic sites, and traditional Irish culture. 

Connemara

A rugged landscape of mountains, lakes, and quiet villages that showcases the wild beauty of Ireland’s west coast.

Killarney, Ireland downtown shops and restaurants
Beautiful Killarney. Photo: Sarah Milner

Killarney

Home to Killarney National Park and the gateway to the famous Ring of Kerry, offering stunning scenery and classic Irish charm.

Galway

A vibrant cultural hub on Ireland’s west coast known for its lively music scene, creative energy, and access to the Wild Atlantic Way.

Self-drive travel allows visitors to move at their own pace, discovering local pubs, scenic viewpoints, and hidden heritage sites along the way. RIT Vacations says its driving holiday itineraries combine the freedom of independent travel with carefully planned routes, handpicked accommodations, and local expertise to help travellers make the most of their journey.

The trend reflects a broader shift in travel behaviour, as visitors increasingly seek meaningful, immersive experiences rather than fast paced itineraries.

“As travellers look for more authentic ways to experience destinations, road trips offer the flexibility to slow down and truly connect with a place,” Sargeant added.

“Ireland is one of the best destinations in the world for that kind of travel.”

  
  
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