7-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin to Carlingford and surrounding area
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Dublin, Malahide, Castleknock, Curragha, Carlingford, Dún Laoghaire, and Dundrum.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Ireland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 5 nights in Dublin and 1 night in Carlingford. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Ireland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Dublin, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Ireland on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Ireland. Phoenix Park and St Stephen's Green are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Dublin Castle, learn more about the unique Dublin Zoo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of St Patrick's Cathedral.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dublin, Malahide, Castleknock, Curragha, Carlingford, Dún Laoghaire, and Dundrum, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Ireland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Ireland.
Throughout your road trip in Ireland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Ireland.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Ireland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Ireland today!
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Saturday, February 22
- Dublin - Arrival day
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- Ha'penny Bridge
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Your road trip adventure in Ireland begins as soon as you reach Dublin and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Dublin for 4 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
Dublin is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Ha'penny Bridge, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Dublin. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Ireland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Dublin, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Peadar Kearney's Pub, a highly-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Lotts Cafe Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Merchant's Arch. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Mulligan's, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, John Kavanagh The Gravediggers is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cassidy's also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Ireland!
Sunday, February 23
- Dublin
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Drive 23 km, 1 hour 32 min
- Phoenix Park
- Dublin Zoo
- Guinness Storehouse
- Dublin Castle
- National Botanic Gardens
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 3 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today’s itinerary in Dublin covers several incredible sights, including a park, a zoo, a brewery, a castle, a botanical garden and much more! Start your adventure at Phoenix Park. This locally renowned park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of Dublin Zoo, a must-see zoo in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Guinness Storehouse. This interesting brewery offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Dublin Castle, where you can take in picture-perfect features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to National Botanic Gardens. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Ireland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dublin. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Start your culinary exploration in Dublin by securing a reservation at Bastible. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Patrick Guilbaud, celebrated for its delectable modern french menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bruxelles, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Light House Cinema. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bowe's Lounge Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Ireland!
Monday, February 24
- Dublin
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Drive 5 km, 1 hour 11 min
- St. Patrick's Cathedral Park
- St Stephen's Green
- National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
- National Gallery of Ireland
- The Book of Kells Experience
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Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Dublin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is St Patrick's Cathedral. This locally renowned church is a historic place to see in Dublin. Continue your discovery at St Stephen's Green, a standout park with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Dublin, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology. This popular museum offers a heritage-rich encounter with Dublin. Next, make your way to National Gallery Of Ireland to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Book Of Kells, a popular museum 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.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Ireland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dublin. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Brazen Head, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bewley's Grafton Street offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dublin.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Bridge 1859, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Dame Tavern, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Mary's Bar & Hardware provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Ireland!
Tuesday, February 25
- Dublin
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Drive 55 km, 1 hour 36 min
- Malahide Castle & Gardens
- Malahide
- Santry Park
- Farmleigh House & Estate
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Dublin, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Malahide and Castleknock. You still have 1 night left in Dublin.
Get ready for an exciting day in Dublin. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a beach, a park, a palace and much more! Begin your adventure at Malahide Castle & Gardens. This is a captivating castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Malahide, a worthwhile beach in Dublin.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Santry Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Farmleigh House & Estate, another of the town’s increasingly popular attractions.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Dublin.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Dublin's best restaurants.
Make sure to reserve a table at SOLE Seafood & Grill, an iconic dining spot in Dublin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Kehoes Pub, a popular restaurant in Dublin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Cobblestone, a hidden gem nestled in Dublin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
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.
Head back to your accommodation in Dublin and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland!
Wednesday, February 26
- Dublin
- Carlingford
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Drive 126 km, 1 hour 54 min
- Emerald Park
- Newgrange
- Brú na Bóinne
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On day 5 of your road trip in Ireland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Curragha and The Municipal District of Laytown — Bettystown. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carlingford, where you will stay for 1 night.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and breathtaking views in Dublin. Begin your sightseeing with Tayto Park. This captivating amusement park is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Newgrange, 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 Brú Na Bóinne. This intriguing archeological site is a traveler-favorite.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Carlingford. Carlingford offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Carlingford's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Ireland!
Thursday, February 27
- Carlingford
- Dublin
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Drive 167 km, 2 hours 28 min
- Killiney Hill Park
- Marlay Park
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Dún Laoghaire and Dundrum. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dublin. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Carlingford today. One of the most curiosity-inducing attractions included on the itinerary is Killiney Hill Park. This mesmerizing park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Marlay Park and learn what makes this awe-inspiring park unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dublin. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dublin. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Stags Head, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Chapter One Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Bank on College Green as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.
Head back to your accommodation in Dublin and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland!
Friday, February 28
- Dublin - Departure day
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- Molly Malone Statue
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Day 7 of your road trip in Ireland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dublin before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Molly Malone Statue. This popular monument is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones. Discover boutiques offering an array of stylish fashion choices. Take a break with a cup of coffee or tea while savoring the local vibe in a coffee shop.
Before you conclude your road trip in Ireland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dublin.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Quays, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Keoghs Cafe offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Café en Seine.
You’ll then say farewell to Dublin. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Ireland!
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