Relaxed 11-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin to Sligo and Carlingford

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

Today’s agenda in Dublin includes a park, a zoo, a museum, a church and much more! Phoenix Park is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Dublin Zoo, a locally renowned zoo, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Dublinia, a visually striking museum, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Dublin. If you’re looking for more, Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin is also an increasingly popular attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Bastible, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Patrick Guilbaud is one of the best restaurants for modern french cuisine in Dublin. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

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 your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Bruxelles, known for its inviting atmosphere. Light House Cinema is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bowe's Lounge Bar 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 3 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!

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Iveagh Gardens. This frequently visited park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is St Stephen's Green, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, one of the most interesting places to see in Dublin. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, National Gallery Of Ireland. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this art gallery offers. Then, head to Natural History Museum, a top-rated museum that adds another dimension to your day.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Ireland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Dublin offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Brazen Head, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bewley's Grafton Street, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

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.

Keep the evening going at The Bridge 1859, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Dame Tavern, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Mary's Bar & Hardware, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland, you’ll go deep into Dublin, where you'll stay for 4 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!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Dublin, including a botanical garden, a museum, a castle, a church, a brewery and much more! Start your adventure at National Botanic Gardens. This notable botanical garden is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Chester Beatty Library located in Dublin for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Dublin Castle. Its historic features will captivate you. After the castle, continue your tour of the city with a visit to St Patrick's Cathedral. This church has a breathtaking appeal. For a change of pace, head to Guinness Storehouse. As one of the most notable attractions in Dublin, this brewery is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

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.

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.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

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

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is National Museum Of Ireland – Decorative Arts And History. This increasingly popular museum is a history-steeped place to see in Dublin. Continue your discovery at Molly Malone Statue, a noteworthy monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Dublin, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Irish Whiskey Museum. This intriguing museum offers a respected encounter with Dublin. Next, make your way to Book Of Kells to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Trinity College Dublin, an increasingly popular university that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Dublin.

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!

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 wonderful meal at The Stags Head, a top-rated dining spot in Dublin. If you're in the mood for something new, try Chapter One Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Bank on College Green. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dublin.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Dublin and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

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

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

Today’s itinerary in Dublin covers several incredible sights, including a marina, a park, and a beach. Start your adventure at Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police. This underrated marina is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the majestic wonders of People's Park, a must-see park in the town.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Forty Foot. This increasingly popular beach offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Killiney Hill Park, where you can take in mesmerizing features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Marlay Park and Marlay Park. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Winding Stair, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Mayfield Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

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.

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