Where to Stop on the Drive from Dublin to the Rock of Cashel

The drive from Dublin to Cashel is just under 2 hours (167 km), without stops. It follows the M7 and M8 motorways – and there is a toll along this route for which you will need to pay €2.30 (for a standard car) at the booth.

You can avoid the toll road by coming off the M7 at exit 17 and rejoining the M8 after about 20 minutes of driving along the R433 (a regional road).

Anyway, I recommend breaking up the journey if time allows – and my suggested stops include Naas, Newbridge, Portlaoise, and Abbeyleix. If you’re keen to stop at all of the below, then I recommend allowing a full day for this drive.

Dublin

Before you head off on your short-ish drive to the Rock of Cashel, be sure to spend a few days (or at least a day) in Dublin. As Ireland’s capital and largest city, as you can imagine, Dublin boasts a variety of attractions that cater to all interests.

History enthusiasts can explore the medieval Dublin Castle or the iconic Trinity College, home to the world-famous Book of Kells. And if you’re interested in literature, a visit to the Dublin Writers Museum is a must-do. Don’t miss the Guinness Storehouse for a taste of Ireland’s most famous export, or take a scenic walk along the River Liffey.

It’s known as a very fun city, and Dublin’s lively atmosphere is palpable in Temple Bar, where you can dance (or tap your foot) to traditional Irish music, drink local beers, and taste some delicious food.

Where to stay in Dublin: If your budget allows, a standout hotel in Dublin is The Westbury, a luxurious five-star hotel, just a stone’s throw from Grafton Street. It’s renowned for its opulent decor and exceptional service.

Public transport between Dublin and Cashel:

P.S. If you don’t have a car, your best option is to catch a train from Dublin Heuston to Thurles and from there catch a bus to Cashel. But keep in mind the bus only operates a few times per day.

Or you could book a guided tour which includes transfers from/ back to Dublin, see the best ones here –

Naas

About 40 minutes (36 km) from Dublin City, you’ll come to my first suggested stop, Naas, the biggest town in County Kildare. Known for its rich equestrian heritage, the town is a hub for horse racing enthusiasts, with the renowned Naas Racecourse hosting numerous events throughout the year.

While here, you should explore the ancient Moat Theatre and the 13th-century St. David’s Church.

There are also plenty of great Cafes here (like PS Coffee Roasters in Poplar Square) if you’re craving a caffeine hit.

Newbridge

Your next stop is home to the famed Newbridge Silverware Visitor Centre – one of the top attractions in this part of the country. Here, you can explore the fascinating history of this renowned brand and learn more about the art of silverware making.

The centre is also home to the Museum of Style Icons, which showcases a remarkable collection of fashion and film memorabilia, including garments worn by legends like Audrey Hepburn and Princess Diana. You can also do a factory tour to see the skilled artisans at work.

Kildare Village Designer Outlet

If you love to shop like me, then it may be worth your while to stop off at Kildare Village Designer Outlet – just a 10-minute drive from Newbridge.

This unique shopping center is designed to resemble an open-air village with over 100 boutiques featuring luxury and designer brands like American Vintage, Armani, etc.

Portlaoise

Portlaoise, in the heart of Ireland, has a rich history, and it’s home to landmarks such as the Rock of Dunamase, an ancient hilltop fortress offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. There are also lots of scenic walking and cycling trails in the nearby Slieve Bloom Mountains, which you could check out if you have the time.

Abbeyleix

Renowned for its well-preserved Georgian architecture, Abbeyleix is a very photogenic town lined with elegant buildings and vibrant shopfronts. The Abbeyleix Heritage House provides a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past, from its origins as a monastic settlement to its development as a hub of commerce. And nature lovers may want to check out the Abbeyleix Bog nearby, a serene natural reserve perfect for walking and birdwatching.

Cashel/ Rock of Cashel

It’s highly likely that the reason you’re visiting Cashel is to see the iconic Rock of Cashel (which is a little Hogwarts-esque, if I do say so).

Yep, the Rock of Cashel, also known as St. Patrick’s Rock, is one of the most famous historic sites in County Tipperary, Ireland. This striking limestone hill is crowned by an impressive collection of medieval buildings that include a round tower, a high cross, a Romanesque chapel, a Gothic cathedral, and a restored Hall of the Vicars Choral.

Steeped in legend and history, the Rock of Cashel is said to be the site where Saint Patrick converted the King of Munster to Christianity in the 5th century. It served as the traditional seat of the Kings of Munster before being gifted to the Church in 1101.

In Cashel town, you could spend an hour or so walking the main street and checking out the stores and Cafes as you go. We had lunch at the Cellar Bar (underneath the Baileys hotel), and we really enjoyed it. We also grabbed a takeaway coffee from SOS Beag for the onward drive to Cahir.

It costs 8 euros per adult to enter the Rock of Cashel; kids under 12 are free, and there are discounted rates available for students, seniors, and older children.

Where to stay in Cashel: For a luxurious stay, consider the Cashel Palace Hotel, a beautifully restored Georgian mansion offering elegant rooms and fine dining. If you prefer a cozy bed and breakfast, Baileys Hotel Cashel provides a warm atmosphere with comfortable rooms in the heart of the town.

If you don’t drive, consider these guided tours that include the Rock of Cashel and some other famous Irish sites:

Renting a Car in Ireland

When it comes to driving in Ireland, choose a vehicle that suits your travel needs. If you’re planning to explore rural areas or rugged landscapes, consider renting a compact or four-wheel-drive vehicle, which will handle narrow, winding roads more efficiently. Be sure to book your rental car well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure the best rates and availability.

The cost of renting a car in Ireland can be expensive. However, there are some ways you can save money. We tend to always book our rental car through Discover Cars. This is a search engine for rental cars and allows you to filter by price if you’re on a budget or by vehicle type if there’s a specific car you’re after.

• Generally speaking, you can expect to pay around €300 per week for a manual (stick shift) economy car; this will rise to around €350 during the peak months of June, July and August.
• Try to rent your vehicle from major cities such as Dublin, Cork, Galway, Belfast, and Limerick. That’s because car hire companies in smaller cities tend to have fewer and more expensive options.
• Book as small a car as you can manage!
• We highly recommend selecting fully comprehensive car insurance. The roads and car parking spaces in Ireland are narrow, so it will quell your fears of getting a bump or scratch. Check if your credit card insurance covers this (some do!)

Slainte!

I hope this guide has helped you to decide where to stop between Dublin and the Rock of Cashel.