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

Day 2 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Ireland lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Glanmire. By evening, drive toward the Galway, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

No visit to Cork is complete without Munster Technological University. This underrated astronomical observatory is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Fitzgerald's Park, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Cork, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Cork City Gaol. This curiosity-inducing museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Blarney Stone, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Blarney Castle & Gardens is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

You'll be staying in Galway on this laid-back road trip through Ireland. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Galway by reserving a table at Éan. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Aniar, recognized for its delicious modern and irish dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday.

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Dew Drop Inn, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Freeney's Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Tigh Neachtain provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Day 3 of your self-drive tour in Ireland offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Galway and end it in Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 6 nights. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Ireland.

Catch Eyre Square before the crowds roll in. This photogenic public square is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the stunning features of Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway, a must-visit church in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Spanish Arch, a beloved historical landmark.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Bastible, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Patrick Guilbaud is one of the best restaurants for modern french cuisine in Dublin. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

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 your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Mulligan's, known for its inviting atmosphere. John Kavanagh The Gravediggers is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Cassidy's provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Ireland!

Day 5 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!

Awaiting your discovery is the well-known St Stephen's Green, a romantic park in Dublin. Next, go to National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology.

After visiting St Stephen's Green and National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, have a stroll along Dublin's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to National Gallery Of Ireland. This photogenic art gallery offers a unique experience. Natural History Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to National Botanic Gardens, one of the most instagrammable places to visit in Dublin.

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 the food culture in Dublin 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Brazen Head, a highly-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bewley's Grafton Street, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Bridge 1859, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Dame Tavern provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Mary's Bar & Hardware offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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.

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!

Trinity College Dublin leaves a lasting impression. This university is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Dublin. Next, head to Book Of Kells, a popular museum, known for its heritage-rich 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 Molly Malone Statue. This respected monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Ha'penny Bridge and Dublin Zoo. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

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.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Dublin.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar" is an excellent place to start.

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

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

Whatever your travel style is, Phoenix Park is an essential stop in Dublin. This captivating park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Guinness Storehouse, a picture-perfect brewery, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to St Patrick's Cathedral, a well-known church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the frequently visited Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. Round off your day at Dublin Castle, another gem in Dublin with historic features to discover.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Stags Head, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Chapter One Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Bank on College Green. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dublin tonight.

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.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Dublin!

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you’ll explore the area around Dublin, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Dublin will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Ireland.

Enniskerry is brimming with adventures. Grafton Street is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Enniskerry. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away. For another highlight, head to O'Connell Street, a street offering its own unique experiences.

Catch Powerscourt House & Gardens before the crowds roll in. This masterful botanical garden is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Marlay Park, a must-visit park in the village.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Quays, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Keoghs Cafe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café en Seine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

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

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Dublin!

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!

Make a stop at Kilkenny Castle. This notable park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Kilkenny Castle located in Dublin for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Rock Of Cashel. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the castle, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Cahir Castle. Visitors usually appreciate the breathtaking features of this castle.

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.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Goldie in Cork by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Goldie delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, acclaimed for its delectable japanese specialties. This local Bib Gourmand establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable 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.

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