Relaxed 10-Day Ireland Road Trip from Cork to Dublin, and Kilkenny

Your relaxed road trip through Ireland starts when you reach the incredible city of Cork, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Cork and begin your adventure in Ireland.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is St Patrick's Bridge. This bridge is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 608 reviews.

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.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Cork.

Start your culinary exploration in Cork by securing a reservation at Goldie. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, celebrated for its delectable japanese menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Experience the culinary magic of Izz Cafe, a hidden gem nestled in Cork. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Impala, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Shelbourne Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Oval likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Ireland. Enjoy your first taste of Cork as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Cork, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral. Previous visitors have rated this anglican or episcopal cathedral an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,394 reviews.

Fitzgerald's Park is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,236 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Cork City Gaol. This prison is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,984 reviews.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Cork by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Liberty Grill offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Canty's Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cork.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

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.

Day 3 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Ireland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of Carrigtwohill. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Dublin, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 5 nights.

After soaking in Cork’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Carrigtwohill. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 21 min. When you arrive in Carrigtwohill, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Fota Wildlife Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Carrigtwohill. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,556 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cobh. This car ride takes around 10 min.

Take the opportunity to see Titanic Experience Cobh. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 4,253 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cahir, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cobh to Cahir may take around 1 hour 3 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cahir, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Cahir Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,177 visitors.

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

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Dublin by securing a table at Bastible. Esteemed as a much-enjoyed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Patrick Guilbaud, famous for its scrumptious modern french dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Dublin. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Mulligan's is an excellent place to start. You could also check out John Kavanagh The Gravediggers, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Cassidy's. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Ireland!

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland, you’ll go deep into Dublin, where you'll stay for 4 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!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Trinity College Dublin. This university is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Dublin, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,087 visitors.

Book of Kells is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,760 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Irish Whiskey Museum. Visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,247 reviews.

Molly Malone Statue is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a point of interest rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 11,943 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Ha'penny Bridge, perhaps the most famous footbridge in Dublin. This attraction is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,413 travelers.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 4 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Ireland. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Dublin itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

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 delicious meal at Taste Food Company, a highly-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're eager to try something different, consider Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Confession Box. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

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 Dublin. The bars in Dublin make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Bruxelles is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Light House Cinema, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bowe's Lounge Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Dublin can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Ireland!

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Ireland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Dublin. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Dublin!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like National Gallery of Ireland. This extraordinary art gallery has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,801 visitors.

Next, make your way to National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology. This national museum welcomes around 370,965 visitors yearly and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,538 reviews.

While in Dublin, we also recommend a visit to Little Museum of Dublin. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,413 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to St Stephen's Green. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,869 travelers, this park is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Dublin.

Make your way to Iveagh Gardens, perhaps the most famous urban park in Dublin. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,024 reviews.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Brazen Head, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bewley's Grafton Street? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar 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 savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Bridge 1859, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Dame Tavern offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dublin. Mary's Bar & Hardware is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

Drop by the renowned St Patrick's Cathedral. This popular anglican or episcopal cathedral has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 21,374 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Dublinia. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,897 visitors, this museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. This anglican or episcopal cathedral has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,634 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Dublin Castle. This point of interest and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 31,657 local and international travelers.

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 delicious dinner at SOLE Seafood & Grill, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kehoes Pub offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Cobblestone. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dublin.

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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at John Fallon's "The Capstan Bar", a top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland, you’ll go deep into Dublin, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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!

Journey into the unknown at Phoenix Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 37,460 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Dublin Zoo is a recommended place to visit. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,781 reviews. Based on recent data, the attraction hosts 1,105,005 visitors per year.

Another must-see attraction in Dublin is Guinness Storehouse. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,378 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Dublin offers an experience you will remember.

National Botanic Gardens is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Dublin. This botanical garden promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,941 reviews.

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.

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 Dublin, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Savor the flavors at The Stags Head, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Chapter One Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Bank on College Green. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dublin tonight.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Ireland!

Day 8 of your self-drive tour in Ireland is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll start your day in the town of Dundrum and end it in the region of The Municipal District of Bray. You’ll stay in Kilkenny for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Ireland.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Dundrum. This car ride takes around 33 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Marlay Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,367 visitors.

Dún Laoghaire’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Dundrum behind. This drive usually takes around 22 min. Dún Laoghaire welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Killiney Hill Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,391 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dún Laoghaire, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Enniskerry. This drive usually takes around 21 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Powerscourt House & Gardens, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,555 reviews.

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

Exploring the food culture in Kilkenny 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 town.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Kilkenny by booking a table at Campagne, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Langtons Hotel Kilkenny, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sullivan's Taproom. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Kilkenny this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the town.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Dylan Whisky Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Biddy Early´s is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Tynans Bridge House Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 9 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!

Make Kilkenny Castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this schloss country house museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,966 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Kilkenny Castle. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,597 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this schloss country house museum every year.

St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 802 visitors.

When you’re finished at St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum, the perfect next stop is St Canice's Cathedral. This church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,093 reviews.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Cork. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Ireland by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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 Cork.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ziggys Bar? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Luigi Malones Cork as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cork.

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

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Ireland!

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip in Ireland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Cork.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Cork is the remarkable National Monument. This monument and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 461 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 10 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Cork or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tony's Bistro, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Cork and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 10-day relaxed road trip in Ireland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.