6-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork traveling west to Killarney
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 6-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cork, Blarney, Killarney, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Dingle, Murreagh, Kenmare, and Ballylickey.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Ireland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Cork and 3 nights in Killarney. 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 Cork, 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. Blarney Castle & Gardens and Muckross House are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Ross Castle, learn more about the unique Torc Mountain, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Fitzgerald's Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cork, Blarney, Killarney, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Dingle, Murreagh, Kenmare, and Ballylickey, 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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Day 1
- Cork - Arrival day
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- St Patrick's Bridge
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Your road trip adventure in Ireland begins as soon as you reach Cork and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Cork for 1 night 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.
Cork 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 St Patrick's 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 Cork. 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 Cork, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Dine in style at The Woodford, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Greenes Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Izz Cafe. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cork.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Impala after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Shelbourne Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Oval is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Ireland!
Day 2
- Cork
- Killarney
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Drive 120 km, 2 hours 52 min
- Blarney Stone
- Blarney Castle & Gardens
- Ross Castle
- Muckross House
- Torc Mountain
- St Mary's Cathedral
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On day 2 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 Blarney and Killarney. In the evening, you’ll end up in Killarney, where you will stay for 3 nights.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in the charming town of Cork. Your adventure starts at Blarney Stone, an underrated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Blarney Castle & Gardens. This captivating castle is known for its respected appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cork's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Ross Castle. This eye-catching castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Muckross House is also worth visiting, along with Torc Mountain. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at St Mary's Cathedral, Killarney. This beloved church provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Killarney. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Killarney. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Malarkey, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Mad Monk by Quinlans beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Vendricks Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Killarney tonight.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at John M. Reidy after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Courtney's Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Jimmy Brien's is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Say good night to Killarney and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Ireland!
Day 3
- Killarney
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Drive 206 km, 3 hours 46 min
- The Kerry Creamery Experience
- Cahergall Stone Fort
- The Old Abbey of the Holy Cross
- Waterville Beach
- Valentia Island Lighthouse
- Kerry Cliffs (Aillte Chiarraí)
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Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Ireland. With 2 nights left in Killarney, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Killarney, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at The Kerry Creamery Experience, a worthwhile cafe in the region. Then, head to Cahergal Stone Fort and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable archeological site.
There are many interesting places to see in Killarney, and when you are ready for more, go to The Old Abbey Of The Holy Cross. This is one of the region’s most up-and-coming picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the monument, visit the underrated Waterville Beach. Not far away, you'll also find Cromwell Point Lighthouse. This lighthouse is an enchanting highlight in Killarney. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Kerry Cliffs (aillte Chiarraí), a frequently visited cliff in the region.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Killarney and your accommodation.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Killarney. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Killarney Royal Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Curious Cat Café is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Killarney.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub, known for its inviting atmosphere.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Ireland.
Day 4
- Killarney
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Drive 227 km, 4 hours 11 min
- Dingle Distillery
- Cill Maoilchéadair
- Coumeenoole
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Killarney, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Killarney, including a distillery, a church, and a beach. Start your adventure at Dingle Distillery. This up-and-coming distillery is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Cill Maoilchéadair located in Killarney for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Inch Beach, Co. Kerry. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the beach, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Coumeenoole. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this beach.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Killarney.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Killarney's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Speakeasy Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Killarney. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Shire Bar & Cafe, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Caragh Restaurant & Lounge Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Killarney.
Head back to your accommodation in Killarney and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland!
Day 5
- Killarney
- Cork
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Drive 297 km, 5 hours 21 min
- Cromwell's Bridge
- Holy Cross Catholic Church, Kenmare
- Reenagross Woodland Park Kenmare
- The Ewe Experience
- Staigue Stone Fort
- Snave Pier, Ballylickey (Cé Snave)
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Kenmare and Ballylickey. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cork, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today’s itinerary in Killarney covers several incredible sights, including a historical landmark, a church, a park, a sculpture garden, an archeological site, a pier and much more! Start your adventure at Cromwell's Bridge. This frequently visited historical landmark is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of Holy Cross Catholic Church, Kenmare, a must-see church in the town.
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 Reenagross Woodland Park Kenmare. This increasingly popular park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to The Ewe Experience, where you can take in eye-catching features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Staigue Stone Fort and Snave Pier, Ballylickey (cé Snave). These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Cork. Cork offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cork. 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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, a top-rated dining spot in Cork. If you're in the mood for something new, try Liberty Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Canty's Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cork.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Ireland!
Day 6
- Cork - Departure day
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- Fitzgerald's Park
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Day 6 of your road trip in Ireland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cork 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, we recommend visiting Fitzgerald's Park, a mesmerizing park before you head out.
On your last day in Ireland, take time to indulge in shopping at Cork’s popular marketplace, Douglas Farmers' Market. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Ireland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cork.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Ziggys Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Cork. 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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