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

On day 2 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Cork and Blarney. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Cork, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Don’t miss Shandon today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

One of the most often recommended attractions included on the itinerary is Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral. This historic church will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Cork Opera House and learn what makes this picture-perfect opera house unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Blarney may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in Blarney, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Blarney Castle & Gardens, a notable castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Blarney Stone and admire its culturally significant features.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, a highly-rated dining destination in Cork. If you're eager to try something different, consider Liberty Grill, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Canty's Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cork this evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Ireland.

Your itinerary for day 3 of your road trip in Ireland includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Killarney. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Killarney, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cork and set your GPS to Killarney. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 13 min. Upon reaching Killarney, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Ross Castle is an often recommended castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Killarney. This car ride takes around 1 hour 13 min.

Savor the day by heading to Muckross House, a locally appreciated museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Killarney National Park, where you can soak in the romantic surroundings.

Next, explore Torc Mountain, yet another curiosity-inducing place to see in the area.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Killarney. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at John M. Reidy, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Courtney's Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Jimmy Brien's provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Killarney, where you have 2 nights left to stay.

Waterville’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Killarney behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min. Waterville welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Next, continue your sightseeing at Waterville Beach, an up-and-coming beach.

Kenmare’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Waterville behind. This drive usually takes around 18 min. Kenmare welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Derrynane House is a locally appreciated museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Killarney. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Savor the flavors at Killarney Royal Hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Curious Cat Café. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Killarney tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Ireland.

Greet day 5 of your road trip in Ireland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Killarney, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Dingle and Kenmare.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Killarney, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Dingle. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 4 min.

Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium is a worthwhile aquarium we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour to Kingdom Falconry, a majestic bird watching area that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Dingle Distillery, a visually striking distillery.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dingle and set your GPS to Kenmare. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 22 min. Upon reaching Kenmare, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Coumeenoole, a worthwhile beach known for its romantic features.

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

Killarney is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Killarney.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Speakeasy Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Shire Bar & Cafe offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Caragh Restaurant & Lounge Bar. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Killarney.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Ireland!

Day 7 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Cork. You’ll stay in Galway for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Galway is brimming with adventures. Salthill is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Galway. 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 Shop Street, a street offering its own unique experiences.

Let Eyre Square set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this heritage-rich public square before continuing your journey. The Latin Quarter is your next stop. This often recommended street 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 Galway City Museum. This standout museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Galway Atlantaquaria.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Ireland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Galway is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Galway.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Apoema Bistro, a popular restaurant in Galway. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Galway at Finnegans, 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 Gemelle's. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Galway tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Crane Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out O'connor's Famous Pub, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Sally Longs Rock Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 9 of your road trip in Ireland, your travel plans include 3 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, Cahir, and The Municipal District of Fermoy are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cork, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Galway, you’ll hit the road in the direction of The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 7 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Rock Of Cashel, a notable castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Cahir and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cahir beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Cahir Castle, a locally appreciated castle known for its breathtaking features.

After soaking in Cahir’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: The Municipal District of Fermoy. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 25 min. When you arrive in The Municipal District of Fermoy, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Ballard Waterfall Forest Recreational Area, a frequently visited park in The Municipal District of Fermoy.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cork. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ziggys Bar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Luigi Malones Cork is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cork.

Head back to your accommodation in Cork and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland.