Relaxed 10-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork to Galway and Dublin

On day 2 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Ireland, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

Make a stop at Munster Technological University. This curiosity-inducing astronomical observatory is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Fitzgerald's Park located in Cork for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Cork City Gaol. Its instagrammable features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Blarney Stone. Visitors usually appreciate the culturally significant features of this monument. Next up is Blarney Castle & Gardens, a highly recommended castle.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Galway. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the 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 Galway, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Begin your culinary exploration in Galway by securing a reservation at Éan. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Aniar, celebrated for its delectable modern and irish menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

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

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Dew Drop Inn after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Freeney's Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Tigh Neachtain also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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 relaxed road trip across Ireland offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Galway and drive in the direction of Dublin for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Dublin, where you’ll stay for 6 nights.

Eyre Square is an ideal stop early in the day. This notable public square is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway, which may be one of the most stunning places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Galway on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Spanish Arch, a curiosity-inducing historical landmark in the city.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Dublin. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in Ireland.

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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Dublin by booking a table at Bastible. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Patrick Guilbaud, celebrated for its delectable modern french menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Mulligan's, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, John Kavanagh The Gravediggers provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cassidy's offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

St Stephen's Green is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This serene park is sure to impress. Next on your list is National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, another must-visit landmark and popular museum renowned for its heritage-rich features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Dublin by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to National Gallery Of Ireland. This visually striking art gallery is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Dublin experience. We also recommend visiting Natural History Museum, an up-and-coming museum. Nearby, you'll also find National Botanic Gardens, ready to add charm to your journey.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Ireland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Dublin offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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.

Savor the flavors at The Brazen Head, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bewley's Grafton Street beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dublin tonight.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Dublin. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Bridge 1859, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Dame Tavern offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Mary's Bar & Hardware provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

On day 6 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 all that Trinity College Dublin has to offer. This is an up-and-coming university you should not miss. Another must-see is Book Of Kells, a notable museum in Dublin.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Molly Malone Statue. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Ha'penny Bridge, another of the city’s locally renowned attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Dublin Zoo, a breathtaking place of interest in the city.

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.

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.

Dine in style at SOLE Seafood & Grill, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kehoes Pub boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Cobblestone. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dublin.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", known for its inviting atmosphere.

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

Day 7 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!

Phoenix Park brings Dublin's character to life. This respected park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Guinness Storehouse, another respected attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to St Patrick's Cathedral, 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 Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. This stunning church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Dublin Castle, a well-known castle, and take a stroll around the area.

Ireland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Stags Head, 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 Chapter One Restaurant, 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 Bank on College Green, a hidden gem nestled in Dublin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Ireland!

Your relaxed road trip in Ireland continues on day 8 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Ireland better by exploring the top attractions of Dublin and beyond. With 1 night left in Dublin, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

A top thing to do today is to explore Grafton Street, a must-see street in Enniskerry. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit O'Connell Street, an ideal street for continued sightseeing.

Experience Powerscourt House & Gardens, a frequently visited botanical garden in the village. Then, head to Marlay Park and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable park.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Quays, 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 Keoghs Cafe, 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 Café en Seine, a hidden gem nestled in Dublin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

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

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in 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!

Kilkenny Castle leaves a lasting impression. This park is one of the most popular places to visit in Dublin. Next, head to Kilkenny Castle, a captivating castle, known for its culturally significant features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Rock Of Cashel. This stunning castle is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Cahir Castle Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Ireland as you make your way to Cork. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

Exploring the food culture in Cork 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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Goldie in Cork by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Goldie offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing japanese cuisine. This popular Bib Gourmand-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

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.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Ireland.