Relaxed 12-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork to Galway and Dublin

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Ireland will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Ireland, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Start by visiting Fitzgerald's Park, a prime spot to begin your journey. This mesmerizing park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Cork City Gaol, another must-visit landmark and worthwhile museum renowned for its instagrammable features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Cork by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Regional Park Ballincollig. This picturesque park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cork experience. We also recommend visiting Blarney Castle & Gardens, a locally renowned castle. Nearby, you'll also find Blarney Stone, ready to add charm to your journey.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Ireland at Galway. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Discover the culinary delights of Galway by securing a reservation at Éan. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Aniar, renowned for its delicious modern and irish dishes. This esteemed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Galway. The bars in Galway make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Dew Drop Inn. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Freeney's Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Tigh Neachtain provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Ireland!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Galway and drive in the direction of the city of Dublin for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Dublin, where you’ll stay for 8 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Galway. Your adventure starts at Eyre Square, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway. This worthwhile church is known for its photogenic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Galway's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Spanish Arch. This breathtaking historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Dublin in this laid-back road trip in Ireland. You'll stay here for 8 nights.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Dublin has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Bastible, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Patrick Guilbaud, known for its delicious modern french cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Dublin is Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Ireland.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Mulligan's, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. John Kavanagh The Gravediggers is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cassidy's is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Ireland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Ireland tomorrow with new energy.

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Ireland continues on day 5, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Ireland and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Dublin and beyond. With 6 nights left in Dublin, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Glendalough Cathedral. This increasingly popular church is a stunning place to see in Dublin. Continue your discovery at Wicklow Mountains National Park, a romantic national park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Dublin, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Powerscourt Waterfall. This underrated waterfall offers a peaceful encounter with Dublin. Next, make your way to Powerscourt House & Gardens to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Bray Seafront, an often recommended beach that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Dublin.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Dublin and your accommodation.

Exploring the food culture in Dublin offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Brazen Head, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bewley's Grafton Street offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dublin.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Dublin’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Ireland.

Continue your lively evening at The Bridge 1859, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Dame Tavern is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Mary's Bar & Hardware ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Ireland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Ireland tomorrow with new energy.

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you’ll explore the area around Dublin, where you’ll be staying for another 5 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Dublin will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Ireland.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Dublin. Begin your sightseeing with Malahide Castle & Gardens. This locally renowned castle is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Dublinia, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Dublin, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. This up-and-coming church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Dublin Castle, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Ha'penny Bridge is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Dublin.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Dublin has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at SOLE Seafood & Grill, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kehoes Pub? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Cobblestone as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Dublin.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Ireland!

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Dublin, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Iveagh Gardens, an underrated park in the city. Then, head to St Stephen's Green and soak in the ambiance of this serene park.

There are many interesting places to see in Dublin, and when you are ready for more, go to National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology. This is one of the city’s most interesting respected spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the captivating National Gallery Of Ireland. Not far away, you'll also find Natural History Museum. This museum is a photogenic highlight in Dublin.

Ireland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Ireland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Dublin has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Stags Head, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Chapter One Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Bank on College Green. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Dublin.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Ireland!

On day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland, you’ll go deep into Dublin, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Dublin, and meet locals along the way!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Dublin today. One of the most beloved attractions included on the itinerary is Trinity College Dublin. This respected university will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Book Of Kells and learn what makes this heritage-rich museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the up-and-coming Irish Whiskey Museum. After exploring the museum, head to Molly Malone Statue. This interesting monument is a highlight in Dublin. As your day continues, stop by St Patrick's Cathedral, known for its historic features.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Dublin. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Dublin that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Ireland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Dublin to find the best options for you!

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Ireland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Dublin.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Quays, a top-rated dining spot in Dublin. If you're in the mood for something new, try Keoghs Cafe, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Café en Seine. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dublin.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Dublin.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Ireland!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip through Ireland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Dublin. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Dublin. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Dublin!

Today's adventure in Dublin promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Phoenix Park. This peaceful park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Dublin Zoo, another visually striking attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Guinness Storehouse, one of the city’s most well-known attractions, known for its breathtaking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of National Botanic Gardens. This stunning botanical garden is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Bull Island, a worthwhile nature reserve, and take a stroll around the area.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Ireland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Ireland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring the food culture in Dublin offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Winding Stair, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mayfield Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Dublin and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Dublin as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Ireland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Ireland!

On day 10 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Dublin and visit amazing attractions in Dundrum and Dún Laoghaire destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Dublin. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Grafton Street is a fantastic place you can explore today in Dundrum. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Dundrum-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out O'Connell Street, a street offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Dublin allows for both. Start by heading to Marlay Park. This underrated park provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Killiney Hill Park, a mesmerizing park, promising a delightful encounter.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Dublin and your accommodation.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Ireland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Dublin, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Bar Italia ristorante, a popular restaurant in Dublin. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dublin at Slattery's, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Darkey Kelly's. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Dublin tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Dublin and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Ireland.

Day 11 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Ireland is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Kilkenny and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the town of The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel and the town of Cahir. You’ll stay in Cork for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Dublin includes a park and a castle. Kilkenny Castle is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Kilkenny Castle, a popular castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Rock Of Cashel, a stunning castle, also available for your discovery today.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Cork. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Cork, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Cork by booking a table at Goldie. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, celebrated for its delectable japanese menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Cork and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Ireland!