11-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin to Kilkenny and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 6 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the popular Phoenix Park, a serene park in Dublin. Next, go to Dublin Zoo.

After visiting Phoenix Park and Dublin Zoo, have a stroll along Dublin's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to National Museum Of Ireland – Decorative Arts And History. This heritage-rich museum offers a unique experience. National Botanic Gardens is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Ireland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you explore more of Dublin, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Start 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.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bruxelles, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Light House Cinema provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bowe's Lounge Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dublin for 5 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Dublin. Your adventure starts at Guinness Storehouse, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is St Patrick's Cathedral. This captivating church is known for its awe-inspiring appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Dublin's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. This symbolic church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Dublin Castle is also worth visiting, along with St Stephen's Green. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Ireland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dublin. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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.

Continue your lively evening at The Bridge 1859, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Dame Tavern is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Mary's Bar & Hardware ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Head back to your accommodation in Dublin and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland!

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 4 nights you have left in Dublin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Dublin, including a museum, an art gallery, and a university. Start your day at Natural History Museum. This visually striking museum is an often recommended place to see in Dublin. Then, wander over to National Gallery Of Ireland. If photogenic sites excite you, this art gallery will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology. This visually striking museum is a favorite among visitors.

Dublin offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Book Of Kells is a popular spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the eye-catching Trinity College Dublin. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved university.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Ireland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dublin. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", a prime location for a drink.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Ireland.

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Dublin, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Malahide. You still have 2 nights left in Dublin.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Dublin, including a beach, a castle, and a park. Start your day with a visit to Malahide. This frequently visited beach is a must-visit in the town. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Malahide Castle & Gardens, which may be one of the most visually striking 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 Santry Park, a curiosity-inducing park in the town. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for St. Catherine's Park (fingal).

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

As you explore more of Dublin, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Quays, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Keoghs Cafe is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Café en Seine. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dublin tonight.

Head back to your accommodation in Dublin and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland!

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Dublin, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Dublin allows for both. Start by heading to Marlay Park. This locally appreciated park provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Killiney Hill Park, a mesmerizing park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Forty Foot, a worthwhile beach. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the often recommended People's Park. Round off your day at Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police, another gem in Dublin with standout features to discover.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dublin. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Winding Stair? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Mayfield Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Ireland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 5 stops and experience some of the highlights of Tallaght, Clondalkin, Lucan, The Municipal District of Celbridge — Leixlip, and The Municipal District of Kildare — Newbridge. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kilkenny, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at the underrated Tymon Park, an instagrammable park in Dublin. Next, go to Corkagh Park.

After visiting Tymon Park and Corkagh Park, have a stroll along Dublin's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Griffeen Valley Park. This scenic park offers a unique experience. Castletown House is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Irish National Stud & Gardens, one of the most eye-catching places to visit in Dublin.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Kilkenny. Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Kilkenny by booking a table at Campagne. This popular restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Langtons Hotel Kilkenny, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Dylan Whisky Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Biddy Early´s is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Tynans Bridge House Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

Day 9 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Kilkenny. You have 1 night left in Kilkenny. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Kilkenny is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Kilkenny Castle, an interesting park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Kilkenny Castle, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny. This brewery is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Kilkenny at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit St Canice's Cathedral.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Ireland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Kilkenny's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Italian Connection, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Syd Harkin's Pub? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Butcher Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Kilkenny.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Blue Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Ryans Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Christy's Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Wicklow, The Municipal District of Bray, and Enniskerry. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dublin, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Kilkenny on today’s itinerary. First up is the increasingly popular national park, Wicklow Mountains National Park. Afterward, continue to Powerscourt Waterfall, a waterfall every traveler should visit.

As you explore Kilkenny’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the region. Next, make your way to Powerscourt House & Gardens. This beloved botanical garden is an essential stop. Following that, head to Bray Head Cross, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Bray Seafront, an intriguing beach in the region.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dublin. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of Dublin, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Dine in style at Bar Italia ristorante, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Slattery's boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Darkey Kelly's. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dublin.

Say good night to Dublin and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Ireland!