Relaxed 11-Day Ireland Road Trip Starting from Dublin to Kilkenny

Your relaxed road trip through Ireland starts when you reach the incredible city of Dublin, where you'll stay for 7 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Dublin and begin your adventure in Ireland.

Drop by the renowned Ha'penny Bridge. This popular footbridge has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,413 visitors.

Find your way to your hotel in Dublin. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Ireland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Dublin.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Mulligan's, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. John Kavanagh The Gravediggers is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cassidy's ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Ireland. Enjoy your first taste of Dublin as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

Journey into the unknown at National Botanic Gardens, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable botanical garden has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,941 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Dublinia is a recommended place to visit. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,897 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Dublin is Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,634 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Dublin offers an experience you will remember.

Dublin Castle is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Dublin. This point of interest promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.3 out of 5 stars in 31,657 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on St Stephen's Green. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,869 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit.

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 Dublin itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Taste Food Company, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Confession Box is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dublin.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bruxelles, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Light House Cinema. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Bowe's Lounge Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 3 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!

Kick off the day at National Gallery of Ireland, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This art gallery is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 14,801 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology. National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology is a national museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,538 reviews. Attracting more than 370,965 yearly visitors, this place of interest is an attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

Book of Kells is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This codex is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,760 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Irish Whiskey Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,247 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Molly Malone Statue, a famous point of interest in Dublin. This attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 11,943 travelers.

Ireland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. 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.

Savor the flavors at The Brazen Head, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bewley's Grafton Street beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. 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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Bridge 1859, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Dame Tavern is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Mary's Bar & Hardware provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip through Ireland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Dublin. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Dublin!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is St Patrick's Cathedral. This anglican or episcopal cathedral is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 21,374 reviews.

Continue your journey at Guinness Storehouse. This tourist attraction is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,378 travelers from near and far.

Dublin is also the home of Dublin Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,781 visitors. Each year, around 1,105,005 travelers visit this top sight, and today is your chance to do the same.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Phoenix Park. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 37,460 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Dublin, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the city, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Ireland.

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.

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.

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.

Continue your lively evening at John Fallon's "The Capstan Bar", a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Dublin and visit amazing attractions in Curragha, The Municipal District of Ashbourne, and The Municipal District of Trim destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 3 nights left in Dublin. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dublin and set your GPS to Curragha. 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 34 min. Upon reaching Curragha, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at Tayto Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable amusement park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,403 reviews.

Upon reaching The Municipal District of Ashbourne, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at Hill of Tara, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable archaeological site has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,323 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Dublin. This car ride takes around 50 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Trim Castle. This extraordinary castle is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,224 visitors.

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

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 The Stags Head, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Chapter One Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Bank on College Green. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic 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.

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

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

Set your GPS to Swords and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 28 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Swords beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Malahide Castle & Gardens. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,383 visitors.

Set your GPS to Malahide and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 5 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Malahide beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready to see some sights, Malahide is a great place to start. This townland is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,889 visitors.

Take the opportunity to see St. Catherine's Park (Fingal). This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,845 visitors.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Quays, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Keoghs Cafe offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Café en Seine is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dublin.

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.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Ireland!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Ireland continues on day 7, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Ireland and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Dundrum and beyond. With 1 night left in Dublin, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Dundrum. This car ride takes around 33 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Marlay Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,367 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Dún Laoghaire, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Dundrum to Dún Laoghaire may take around 22 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dún Laoghaire, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Killiney Hill Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,391 visitors.

Next, make your way to Forty Foot. This top attraction is a promontory with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,373 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to People's Park. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,465 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,180 travelers.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

Day 8 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Ireland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the town of The Municipal District of Bray. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the town of Kilkenny, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dublin, you’ll hit the road in the direction of The Municipal District of Bray. This drive usually takes around 46 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Bray Seafront, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,664 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Enniskerry. This drive usually takes around 17 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Powerscourt House & Gardens. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,555 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dublin and set your GPS to The Municipal District of Bray. 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 46 min. Upon reaching The Municipal District of Bray, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Powerscourt Waterfall your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this waterfall an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,433 reviews.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Ireland at Kilkenny. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the town to recharge and rejuvenate.

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 town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Experience a taste of Campagne in Kilkenny by booking a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Campagne delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Langtons Hotel Kilkenny, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sullivan's Taproom. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kilkenny this evening.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Dylan Whisky Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Biddy Early´s is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Tynans Bridge House Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in The Municipal District of Bray can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Ireland!

On day 9 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Kilkenny and visit amazing attractions in Kilkenny, and Inistioge destinations, just outside of the town. You still have 1 night left in Kilkenny. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at St Canice's Cathedral, a remarkable church where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,093 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny. This tourist attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,170 travelers.

Kilkenny Castle is another must-visit attraction. This renowned schloss country house museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,597 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Kilkenny Castle. This well-loved schloss country house museum boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 10,966 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Inistioge. This car ride takes around 33 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 777 reviews.

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

Exploring the food culture in Kilkenny 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 town.

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Italian Connection, an iconic dining spot in Kilkenny. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Syd Harkin's Pub, a popular restaurant in Kilkenny. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Butcher Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Kilkenny. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Blue Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Ryans Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Kilkenny. Christy's Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Kilkenny can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Ireland!

Day 10 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Ireland is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from The Municipal District of Kildare — Newbridge and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the region of The Municipal District of Clane — Maynooth and the town of Leixlip. You’ll stay in Dublin for 1 night.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of The Municipal District of Kildare — Newbridge.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Irish National Stud & Gardens. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,275 visitors.

When you arrive in The Municipal District of Clane — Maynooth, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Lullymore Heritage & Discovery Park. This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in The Municipal District of Clane — Maynooth, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,452 visitors.

Clonfert Farm is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,670 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dublin. This drive usually takes around 30 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Castletown House. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,938 reviews.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Dublin. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Ireland by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Bar Italia ristorante, a popular restaurant in Dublin. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dublin at Slattery's, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Darkey Kelly's. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Dublin tonight.

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.

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

As your final day in Ireland unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Dublin's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Ireland.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Dublin is the remarkable James Joyce Statue. This point of interest and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 547 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 Dublin or just grab something light to keep you going.

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Brogans, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Dublin 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.