11-Day Relaxed Ireland Road Trip from Cork to Galway and Kilkenny

Your slow-paced and relaxed road trip through Ireland begins when you reach Cork, where you’ll stay for a total of 3 nights.

Cork is an outstanding hub for culture, comfort, and exploration. The city offers travelers plenty of experiences to look forward to, including the magnificent St Patrick's Bridge. Around 609 visitors have rated this fascinating bridge and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Take your pick and make it your home during your leisurely tour of the city.

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.

An excellent example is Liberty Grill. This restaurant offers a menu of comforting meals and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,609 customers.

Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House serves great food and is a favorite among hungry travelers and locals. This popular restaurant in Cork has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 792 reviews.

Izz Cafe is another one of the city’s best restaurants. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 731 customers, Izz Cafe is sure to provide you with an unforgettable dining experience.

If you’re curious about what Cork looks like at night, a trip to some of the best bars near your accommodation is what you need next. Experience the local nightlife at Sin é, our top recommendation in the city. Customers have rated this bar an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,654 reviews.

The Oliver Plunkett offers a variety of refreshing drinks and is one of the best places to relax in Cork. This well-known city bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,192 customers.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Ireland! Expect more to come as you continue this laid-back and relaxed road trip in Ireland!

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you'll explore the best attractions in Cork at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Cork, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 2 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous Munster Technological University. This incredible technological university has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,360 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Ireland by seeing another popular site in Cork, the wonderful Fitzgerald's Park. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,360 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Cork City Gaol. This prison has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,875 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Blarney Castle & Gardens. This park is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,638 visitors.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 2 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Ireland. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Cork itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Ireland extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Cork. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, Market Lane. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,609 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at The SpitJack Cork, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. The SpitJack Cork is rated 4.6 stars out of 5 by 1,934 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended Luigi Malones Cork. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,073 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Cork and unwind at the coolest bars in the city. Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular The Old Town Whiskey Bar at Bodega. This vibrant bar is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,534 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular Cornstore Cork. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,516 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Another recommendation you shouldn’t miss is A Bróg Bar + Kitchen. Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks. A Bróg Bar + Kitchen has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,592 bar goers.

Enjoy the rest of day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

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

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Bunratty Castle & Folk Park is waiting for you. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,299 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Cliffs of Moher. This unique cliff is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 32,619 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible Ballyvaughan Pier. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 401 visitors, this top-tier point of interest is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Make the most of your relaxed road trip vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Ennis has in store for you. There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Ireland. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Galway. In Galway, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Ireland.

With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,099 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing Ard Bia at Nimmos.

Locals also recommend The Quay Street Kitchen as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at The Quay Street Kitchen as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,029 customers.

If you feel like having something else, you could also book a table at Esquires - The Organic Coffee Co (Eyre Square). This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,000 customers.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like O'Connor's Famous Pub. O'Connor's Famous Pub is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,806 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is Tigh Chóilí. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,662 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to O'Connell's Bar Galway. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. O'Connell's Bar Galway is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,659 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Ireland!

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you’ll explore the area around Galway, where you’ll be staying for another 4 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Galway will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Ireland.

One of the city’s best travel destinations is a fascinating top-tier point of interest, the stunning Quadrangle. Around 168 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Travelers also come to the city to visit the spectacular Great Escape Rooms, a popular top-tier point of interest and another top-rated attraction in Galway.

You might discover a new thing or two about the city at the incredible Eyre Square. This local attraction is an amazing square that has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,014 visitors.

A stop at the outstanding Open The Door Escape Room will make your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Ireland more memorable. Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars by 303 visitors, a stop at this local attraction during your leisurely self-drive through Ireland is a chance to gain another experience worth sharing.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Galway. Tours offer an opportunity to get to know more about Galway and the unique culture of the country.

There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Galway that will make your self-drive tour in Ireland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Galway to find the best options for you!

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Galway for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Ireland by eating at one of the best restaurants in Galway.

With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 616 customers, the dining experience Scotty's Burgers & Wings, Galway, Ireland. Offers is the perfect complement to your relaxed road trip in Ireland.

OSTERIA da Simone : Italian restaurant & pizzeria is another pleasant place to eat in Galway. This restaurant offers a menu of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 588 customers.

If you’re looking for a restaurant that locals enjoy, check out Zappis Restaurant and try their flavorful menu. This local favorite has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 505 customers.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At Caribou, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Galway is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 979 customers.

You can also unwind and enjoy a few drinks at A Púcán, another well-known bar in Galway. Customers have rated this city bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,188 reviews.

Another top-rated bar with a unique vibe is The Front Door Pub. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,692 customers, The Front Door Pub is one of the best places to end a laid-back tour of Galway.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Ireland is all about!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you’ll explore the area around Galway, where you’ll be staying for another 3 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Galway will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Ireland.

One of the city’s best travel destinations is a fascinating top-tier point of interest, the stunning Port of Galway. Around 1,058 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Travelers also come to the city to visit the spectacular Galway City Museum, a popular city museum and another top-rated attraction in Galway. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,211 visitors, this amazing sightseeing spot attracts approximately 161,558 travelers every year.

You might discover a new thing or two about the city at the incredible Spanish Arch. This local attraction is an amazing best-rated sightseeing destination that has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,733 visitors.

A stop at the outstanding The Latin Quarter will make your slow-paced and relaxed road trip in Ireland more memorable. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,073 visitors, a stop at this local attraction during your leisurely self-drive through Ireland is a chance to gain another experience worth sharing.

If you’re feeling a little eager to wander around the city a bit more, we recommend you visit the fantastic Menlo Castle. Menlo Castle is a well-loved castle by locals and tourists alike, and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 577 visitors.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Galway. Tours offer an opportunity to get to know more about Galway and the unique culture of the country.

There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Galway that will make your self-drive tour in Ireland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Galway to find the best options for you!

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Galway for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Ireland by eating at one of the best restaurants in Galway.

With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,233 customers, the dining experience The Kings Head Bistro offers is the perfect complement to your relaxed road trip in Ireland.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At The Skeff Bar, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Galway is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,056 customers.

You can also unwind and enjoy a few drinks at The Quays Bar and Restaurant, another well-known bar in Galway. Customers have rated this city bar an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,514 reviews.

Another top-rated bar with a unique vibe is The Dáil Bar Galway. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,040 customers, The Dáil Bar Galway is one of the best places to end a laid-back tour of Galway.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Ireland is all about!

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you’ll explore the area around Galway, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Galway will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Ireland.

One of the city’s best travel destinations is a fascinating best-rated sightseeing destination, the stunning Ladies Beach. Around 166 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Travelers also come to the city to visit the spectacular Barna Woods, a popular park and another top-rated attraction in Galway.

You might discover a new thing or two about the city at the incredible Cappagh Park. This local attraction is an amazing park that has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 454 visitors.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Galway. Tours offer an opportunity to get to know more about Galway and the unique culture of the country.

There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Galway that will make your self-drive tour in Ireland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Galway to find the best options for you!

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Galway for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Ireland by eating at one of the best restaurants in Galway.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At Monroe's Tavern, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Galway is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,993 customers.

You can also unwind and enjoy a few drinks at Tigh Neachtain, another well-known bar in Galway. Customers have rated this city bar an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,561 reviews.

Another top-rated bar with a unique vibe is Brasserie On The Corner. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,337 customers, Brasserie On The Corner is one of the best places to end a laid-back tour of Galway.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Ireland is all about!

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you’ll explore the area around Galway, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Galway will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Ireland.

One of the city’s best travel destinations is a fascinating catholic cathedral, the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway. Around 4,467 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Travelers also come to the city to visit the spectacular Salmon Weir Bridge, a popular weir and another top-rated attraction in Galway.

You might discover a new thing or two about the city at the incredible Merlin Castle. This local attraction is an amazing best-rated sightseeing destination that has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 245 visitors.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Galway. Tours offer an opportunity to get to know more about Galway and the unique culture of the country.

There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Galway that will make your self-drive tour in Ireland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Galway to find the best options for you!

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Galway for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Ireland by eating at one of the best restaurants in Galway.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At Taaffes Bar, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Galway is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,455 customers.

You can also unwind and enjoy a few drinks at 1520 Bar, another well-known bar in Galway. Customers have rated this city bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,375 reviews.

Another top-rated bar with a unique vibe is The Crane Bar. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,098 customers, The Crane Bar is one of the best places to end a laid-back tour of Galway.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Ireland is all about!

Day 8 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Ireland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Kilkenny, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Jenkinstown Wood And Walled Garden Walk is waiting for you. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 357 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Kilkenny Castle. This unique schloss country house museum is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,609 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible Kilkenny Castle. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,284 visitors, this schloss country house museum is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum. This popular museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 785 people.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Ireland. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Kilkenny. In Kilkenny, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Ireland.

With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 640 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing Petronella Restaurant.

Locals also recommend Butcher Restaurant as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at Butcher Restaurant as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 563 customers.

If you feel like having something else, you could also book a table at Paris Texas Bar and Restaurant. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,225 customers.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like Tynans Bridge House Bar. Tynans Bridge House Bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 509 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is Matt The Millers Bar & Restaurant. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,409 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to Kytelers Inn. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. Kytelers Inn is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,411 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Ireland!

Around 759 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

This local attraction is an amazing museum that has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,407 visitors.

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Kilkenny for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Ireland by eating at one of the best restaurants in Kilkenny.

With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,010 customers, the dining experience Ristorante Rinuccini offers is the perfect complement to your relaxed road trip in Ireland.

Italian Connection is another pleasant place to eat in Kilkenny. This restaurant offers a menu of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 727 customers.

If you’re looking for a restaurant that locals enjoy, check out Zuni Restaurant, Bar & Boutique Hotel and try their flavorful menu. This local favorite has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 653 customers.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city. At Paris Texas Bar and Restaurant, you can relax or make friends with locals and fellow travelers. This bar in Kilkenny is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,225 customers.

You can also unwind and enjoy a few drinks at Left Bank, another well-known bar in Kilkenny. Customers have rated this city bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,944 reviews.

Another top-rated bar with a unique vibe is Billy Byrnes Gastro Bar & Venue. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 843 customers, Billy Byrnes Gastro Bar & Venue is one of the best places to end a laid-back tour of Kilkenny.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Ireland is all about!

Day 10 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Ireland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Cork, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful St. Mary's Cathedral is waiting for you. This church has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 732 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is The Black Abbey. This unique church is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 587 visitors.

Don’t forget to make a stop at the incredible Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,129 visitors, this tourist attraction is one of the top sights to visit in the area.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding St Canice's Cathedral. This popular church and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,013 people.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Ireland. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Cork. In Cork, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Ireland.

With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,427 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing Hayfield Manor Hotel.

Locals also recommend Quinlans Seafood Bar Cork as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at Quinlans Seafood Bar Cork as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,527 customers.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like The Thomond Bar. The Thomond Bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,430 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is The Woodford. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,261 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to The Shelbourne Bar. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. The Shelbourne Bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,024 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Ireland!

Day 11 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.

Depending on when you need to leave, you might be able to fit in some sightseeing or shopping. Embrace the beauty of Cork once more and find some souvenirs to help you remember your time in the city. To end your relaxing road trip in Ireland on top, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

National Monument is an extraordinary attraction that is perfect for your last day in Cork. This top sight is a popular monument, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 455 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 11 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.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Cork and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 11-day relaxed road trip in Ireland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.