Relaxed 11-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork to Galway and Dublin

Day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Ireland offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Cork and continue your relaxed road trip adventure in Blarney and Galway. You’ll stay in Galway for 1 night.

Fitzgerald's Park is an ideal stop early in the day. This intriguing park is a must-visit in the city.

One of the best things about exploring Cork 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 Cork City Gaol, a curiosity-inducing museum in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Blarney Castle & Gardens and Blarney Stone.

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

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 Galway.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Galway by booking a table at Éan. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining option, venture to Aniar, celebrated for its delectable modern and irish menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary.

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

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Dew Drop Inn, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Freeney's Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Tigh Neachtain. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Day 3 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!

Awaiting your discovery is the interesting Eyre Square, a respected public square in Galway. Next, go to Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway.

After visiting Eyre Square and Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway, have a stroll along Galway's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Spanish Arch. This historic historical landmark offers a unique experience.

You'll be staying in Dublin on this laid-back road trip through Ireland. You'll stay here for 7 nights.

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.

Begin your culinary exploration in Dublin by securing a reservation at Bastible. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Patrick Guilbaud, celebrated for its delectable modern french menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Mulligan's, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, John Kavanagh The Gravediggers offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dublin. Cassidy's 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!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland, you’ll go deep into Dublin, where you'll stay for 5 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!

Phoenix Park is an ideal stop early in the day. This captivating park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Dublin Zoo, which may be one of the most picture-perfect places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Dublin 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 Guinness Storehouse, a popular brewery in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Iveagh Gardens and National Botanic Gardens.

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.

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 lovely dining experience at The Brazen Head, a popular restaurant in Dublin. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dublin at Bewley's Grafton Street, 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 The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time 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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Bridge 1859 stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Dame Tavern offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Mary's Bar & Hardware is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Day 6 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!

Experience Natural History Museum, a locally appreciated museum in the city. Then, head to National Gallery Of Ireland and soak in the ambiance of this historic art gallery.

There are many interesting places to see in Dublin, and when you are ready for more, go to Book Of Kells. This is one of the city’s most notable history-steeped spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the well-known National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology. Not far away, you'll also find St Stephen's Green. This park is an idyllic highlight 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.

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. Known for great service, 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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back 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.

No visit to Dublin is complete without St Patrick's Cathedral. This locally renowned church is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Dublin, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Dublin Castle. This locally renowned castle is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Molly Malone Statue, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Ha'penny Bridge is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious 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!

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.

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.

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!

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Ireland, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Dublin and visit amazing attractions in Dundrum and Dún Laoghaire, just outside the city. You still have 2 nights left in Dublin, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Grafton Street is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Dundrum, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the town. Be sure to also visit O'Connell Street, a street that showcases another side of Dundrum.

Check out the often recommended park, Marlay Park. Afterward, continue to Killiney Hill Park, a park every traveler should visit. As you explore Dublin’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Quays, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Keoghs Cafe beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Café en Seine. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dublin tonight.

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.

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

Your relaxed road trip in Ireland continues on day 9 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.

Whether you decide to explore Laragh on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Make a stop at Glendalough Cathedral. This up-and-coming church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Wicklow Mountains National Park located in Dublin for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Powerscourt Waterfall. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the waterfall, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Powerscourt House & Gardens. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this botanical garden. Next up is Bray Seafront, a highly recommended beach.

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.

Dine in style at FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Winding Stair boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Mayfield Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dublin.

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

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Kilkenny and drive in the direction of The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Cork, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Kilkenny Castle brings Dublin's character to life. This enchanting park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Kilkenny Castle, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Rock Of Cashel, one of the city’s most notable attractions, known for its stunning features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Cahir Castle. This historic castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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.

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.

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

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