10-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork to Killarney, Dingle, and Galway

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photo of view of Row home and cathedral in Cobh, Ireland.
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 10-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cork, Blarney, Killarney, Kenmare, Dingle, Galway, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, and Cahir.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Ireland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Cork, 2 nights in Killarney, 2 nights in Dingle, and 2 nights in Galway. 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. Cliffs Of Moher and Rock Of Cashel are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Eyre Square, learn more about the unique Blarney Castle & Gardens, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Killarney National Park.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cork, Blarney, Killarney, Kenmare, Dingle, Galway, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, and Cahir, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Tramore Valley Park
Fitzgerald's ParkCork Public MuseumSaint Fin Barre's CathedralCrawford Art GalleryBlarney StoneBlarney Castle & Gardens
Ross CastleMuckross HouseKillarney National ParkTorc Mountain
Derrynane HouseStaigue Stone FortCromwell's Bridge
Conor Pass waterfallDingle Oceanworld AquariumSt Mary's Church
Conor PassKingdom FalconryDingle DistilleryCoumeenoole

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Cork - Arrival day
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  • Tramore Valley Park
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Welcome to Cork, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Ireland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Cork's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 Tramore Valley Park, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Cork. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

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

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Ireland!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Cork
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Drive 25 km, 1 hour 30 min

  • Fitzgerald's Park
  • Cork Public Museum
  • Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral
  • Crawford Art Gallery
  • Blarney Stone
  • Blarney Castle & Gardens
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cork, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Cork and Blarney. You still have 1 night left in Cork.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Cork. Your adventure starts at Fitzgerald's Park, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Cork Public Museum. This often recommended museum is known for its eye-catching 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 Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral. This picture-perfect church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Crawford Art Gallery is also worth visiting, along with Blarney Stone. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment. End your day at Blarney Castle & Gardens. This locally renowned castle provides a fitting finale to your sightseeing.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cork. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Liberty Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Canty's Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cork.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Ireland!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cork
  • Killarney
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Drive 122 km, 2 hours 42 min

  • Ross Castle
  • Muckross House
  • Killarney National Park
  • Torc Mountain
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Killarney, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Killarney. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cork. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a museum, a national park, a waterfall and much more! Begin your adventure at Ross Castle. This is an often recommended castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Muckross House, a curiosity-inducing museum in Cork.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Killarney National Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Torc Mountain, another of the town’s often recommended attractions.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Killarney. Killarney offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Killarney, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Malarkey, a top-rated dining destination in Killarney. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Mad Monk by Quinlans, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vendricks Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Killarney this evening.

Continue your lively evening at John M. Reidy, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Courtney's Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Jimmy Brien's ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Ireland!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Killarney
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Drive 169 km, 3 hours 18 min

  • Derrynane House
  • Staigue Stone Fort
  • Cromwell's Bridge
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Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in Ireland. With 1 night left in Killarney, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Today’s agenda in Killarney includes a museum, an archeological site, and a historical landmark. Derrynane House is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Staigue Stone Fort, a locally appreciated archeological site, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Cromwell's Bridge, a picture-perfect historical landmark, also available for your discovery today.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Killarney. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Killarney Royal Hotel, a highly-rated dining destination in Killarney. If you're eager to try something different, consider Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Curious Cat Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Killarney this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub, known for its lively atmosphere.

Say good night to Killarney and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Ireland!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Killarney
  • Dingle
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Drive 81 km, 1 hour 35 min

  • Conor Pass waterfall
  • Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium
  • St Mary's Church
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Kenmare and Dingle. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dingle. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Conor Pass Waterfall. This frequently visited waterfall is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, one of the region’s best highlights.

Next, check out St Mary's Church, one of the most often recommended places to see in Killarney. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dingle, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dingle. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Dingle
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Drive 51 km, 1 hour 12 min

  • Conor Pass
  • Kingdom Falconry
  • Dingle Distillery
  • Coumeenoole
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Day 6 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Kenmare. You have 1 night left in Dingle. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the town.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Dingle, including a cliff, a bird watching area, a distillery, a beach and much more! Start your adventure at Conor Pass. This up-and-coming cliff is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Kingdom Falconry located in Dingle for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Dingle Distillery. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the distillery, continue your tour of the region with a visit to Coumeenoole. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this beach.

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 Dingle. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dingle.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Ireland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Dingle
  • Galway
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Drive 256 km, 3 hours 44 min

  • Galway City Museum
  • Great Escape Rooms
  • Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway
  • Eyre Square
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On day 7 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 Galway. In the evening, you’ll end up in Galway, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Dingle. Your adventure starts at Galway City Museum, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Great Escape Rooms. This curiosity-inducing escape room is known for its respected appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Dingle's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway. This stunning church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Eyre Square is also worth visiting.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Galway. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Galway. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Front Door Pub, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Busker Brownes as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Galway.

Keep the evening going at The Dew Drop Inn, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Freeney's Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tigh Neachtain, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Ireland.

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Galway
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Drive 176 km, 3 hours 36 min

  • Burren National Park
  • Poulnabrone dolmen
  • Aillwee Cave
  • Cliffs of Moher
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On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Galway. You’ll stay in Galway for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Galway on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Burren National Park is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this instagrammable national park before continuing your journey. Poulnabrone Dolmen is your next stop. This up-and-coming archeological site is one of the best-rated sights in Galway.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Aillwee Cave. This scenic cave is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Cliffs Of Moher.

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.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Galway's best restaurants.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Crane Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, O'connor's Famous Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Galway. Sally Longs Rock Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Ireland!

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Galway
  • Cork
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Drive 270 km, 3 hours 32 min

  • Rock of Cashel
  • Swiss Cottage
  • Cahir Castle
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On day 9 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel and Cahir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cork, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the notable Rock Of Cashel, a stunning castle in Galway. Next, go to Swiss Cottage.

After visiting Rock Of Cashel and Swiss Cottage, have a stroll along Galway's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Cahir Castle. This respected castle offers a unique experience.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cork's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, a popular restaurant in Cork. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cork at Ziggys Bar, 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 Luigi Malones Cork. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cork tonight.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Ireland!

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Day 10

Day 10

  • Cork - Departure day
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  • Cork City Gaol
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Day 10 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 Cork City Gaol, a historic museum 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.

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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