Driving Irish Roads

Ireland and Northern Ireland offer some of the most picturesque landscapes and charming towns in the world, making them perfect destinations for driving Irish roads in a motorhome or campervan. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or embarking on your first motorhome journey, understanding the nuances of driving in these regions will enhance your experience. This guide provides essential tips and highlights the differences between driving in Ireland and Northern Ireland, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip driving Irish roads for tourists from the UK, Europe, and the USA.

Key Considerations for Ireland

Roads and Routes
- Ireland boasts a mix of modern highways and scenic country roads. While major routes are well-maintained, rural roads can be narrow and winding, offering breathtaking views of the countryside whilst driving Irish roads.
- Roads in Ireland are classified as M (Motorways), N (National Roads), R (Regional Roads), and L (Local Roads). M and N roads are generally wider and better maintained, while R and L roads can be narrower and more rural. L roads can often have grass growing up the middle & are probably best avoided in larger vehicles.
- Single broken yellow line – A single broken yellow line indicates the edge of the carriageway or hard shoulder. It’s normally for the use of pedestrians and cyclists. Drivers may use it briefly to allow faster traffic to overtake, but only where it is safe to do so. Tractors often use it & if you have cars behind you it may be a good idea to pull slightly left but be aware of upcoming junctions.

Driving Laws and Regulations
- In Ireland, driving is on the left side of the road, similar to the UK. This may require adjustment for driving Irish roads for travellers from Europe and the USA.
- Speed limits are posted in kilometres per hour (km/h), with a maximum of 120 km/h on motorways and 60 km/h on rural roads. Ireland is undergoing a speed reduction program in 2025 so make sure you are aware of any recent changes. Always follow road signs. Google maps didn’t update on the day for the changes already actioned in 2025 so don’t rely on google maps for correct speed limit. 2025 Speed changes
- Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and using a mobile phone while driving Irish roads is prohibited unless hands-free.
- Irish drivers are generally courteous & often give way to larger vehicles. They are used to being stuck behind tractors so often are not is so much of a hurry as they accept this as part of their way of life.
- Tolls – There are 11 toll roads in Ireland. Some have kiosks & some you pay online afterwards. Further Info is available here: Ireland Toll Roads
Motorhome Facilities
- Ireland offers numerous campsites and park-ups with facilities for motorhomes, including electricity, water, and waste disposal. Bins, however are in short supply in ROI so you’ll need to dispose of rubbish at campsites or in very small amounts in public bins or take & pay for disposal at a refuse centre.
- Wild camping is generally tolerated, but it’s advisable to seek permission from landowners and adhere to “Leave No Trace” principles.

Key Considerations for Northern Ireland

Roads and Routes
- Northern Ireland features a network of well-maintained roads, with scenic routes such as the Causeway Coastal Route offering spectacular views of the coastline and countryside.
- The region’s compact size makes it easy to explore multiple attractions in a short time.
- Roads in Northern Ireland are classified as M (Motorways), A (Primary Roads), B (Secondary Roads), and C (Local Roads). A and B roads are typically wider and more direct, while C roads can be more rural and less maintained.
Driving Laws and Regulations
- Like Ireland, Northern Ireland drives on the left side of the road. However, speed limits are posted in miles per hour (mph), reflecting its status as part of the UK.
- The maximum speed limit is 70 mph on motorways and 60 mph on single carriageways.
- Similar to Ireland, seat belts are compulsory, and mobile phone use while driving is restricted to hands-free devices.
Motorhome Facilities
- Northern Ireland offers a range of campsites with amenities for motorhomes, as well as designated motorhome parking areas in towns and cities.
- Wild camping is generally tolerated, but it’s advisable to seek permission from landowners and adhere to “Leave No Trace” principles.

Differences Between Ireland and Northern Ireland

Currency: Ireland uses the Euro (€), while Northern Ireland uses the British Pound (£). It’s essential to have the appropriate currency for each region.

Signage: Road signs in Ireland are in both English and Irish, while in Northern Ireland, they are in English only.
Road Classification: The road classification systems differ, with Ireland using M, N, R, and L roads, and Northern Ireland using M, A, B, and C roads. This affects the type of roads you may encounter and their maintenance levels.
Border Crossing: There are no border checks between Ireland and Northern Ireland, allowing for seamless travel. However, it’s advisable to carry identification and be aware of any travel advisories. Sometime you may not even realise you have passed the border until you see road signs change & fuel prices change.
Also if you use your phone for navigation allow for loss of signal as you cross the border so make sure you have data roaming enabled so you can navigate. My phone takes a while to switch over whenever I cross the border.

Tips for a Successful Motorhome Journey

Check Insurance: Ensure your motorhome insurance covers both Ireland and Northern Ireland, including breakdown assistance. I have full EU insurance & breakdown cover as an addition to my UK policy.
Stay Informed: Keep updated on local traffic laws and weather conditions to ensure a safe journey.

Exploring Ireland and Northern Ireland by motorhome offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality of these regions. By understanding the driving differences in driving Irish roads and preparing accordingly, tourists from the UK, Europe, and the USA can enjoy a memorable and hassle-free adventure.

And of course don’t forget to download your route from Motorhome Routes Ireland