12-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork to Killarney, Galway, and Dublin

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cork, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Cork and Blarney.

Whatever your travel style is, Fitzgerald's Park is an essential stop in Cork. This frequently visited park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral, an awe-inspiring church, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Elizabeth Fort, a locally appreciated castle. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the frequently visited Crawford Art Gallery. Not far away from the art gallery, you will find the romantic Blarney Castle & Gardens, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Blarney Stone, another gem in Cork with picture-perfect features to discover.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Cork's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, an iconic dining spot in Cork. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Liberty Grill, a popular restaurant in Cork. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Canty's Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Cork. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Killarney. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Killarney, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Awaiting your discovery is the locally appreciated Ross Castle, a breathtaking castle in Cork. Next, go to Muckross House.

After visiting Ross Castle and Muckross House, have a stroll along Cork's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Killarney National Park. This UNESCO world heritage-listed national park offers a unique experience. Torc Mountain is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Killarney. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Killarney's best restaurants.

Make sure to reserve a table at Malarkey, an iconic dining spot in Killarney. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Mad Monk by Quinlans, a popular restaurant in Killarney. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Vendricks Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Killarney. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting John M. Reidy after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Courtney's Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Jimmy Brien's also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Ireland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 2 nights to stay in Killarney, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Kenmare and Sneem.

Kenmare is brimming with adventures.

Your adventure in Killarney is only getting started when you visit Kerry Cliffs (aillte Chiarraí), a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Derrynane House. This beloved museum is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Killarney's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Sneem Sculpture Trail. This breathtaking sculpture garden offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

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

Killarney is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Killarney.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Killarney Royal Hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Killarney. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Curious Cat Café. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Killarney.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub, known for its inviting atmosphere.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Ireland!

On day 5 of your road trip in Ireland, you’ll start and end your day in Killarney, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Killarney, there’s no need to rush. Experience Kenmare and Dingle to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Enjoy all that Conor Pass Waterfall has to offer. This is a curiosity-inducing waterfall you should not miss. Another must-see is Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, a beloved aquarium in Killarney.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Dingle Distillery. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Kingdom Falconry, another of the region’s locally appreciated attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Conor Pass, a romantic place of interest in the region.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Killarney. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Speakeasy Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Shire Bar & Cafe offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Caragh Restaurant & Lounge Bar. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Killarney.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 place, which are Galway. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Galway, where will spend 3 nights.

Your adventure in Killarney is only getting started when you visit Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Great Escape Rooms. This often recommended escape room is known for its historic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Killarney's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to The Latin Quarter. This history-steeped street offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Eyre Square is also worth visiting.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Galway. Galway offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Galway's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Front Door Pub, a highly-rated dining destination in Galway. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Busker Brownes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Galway this evening.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Dew Drop Inn, known for its inviting atmosphere. Freeney's Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Tigh Neachtain provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Day 7 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Galway. You have 2 nights left in Galway. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Let Burren National Park set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this idyllic national park before continuing your journey. Cliffs Of Moher is your next stop. This captivating cliff is one of the best-rated sights in Galway.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Moher Hill Open Farm And Leisure Park. This eye-catching farm is a sight to behold.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Ireland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Galway is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Galway.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Apoema Bistro, a popular restaurant in Galway. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Galway at Finnegans, 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 Gemelle's. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Galway tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Crane Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to O'connor's Famous Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Sally Longs Rock Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Ireland.

Day 8 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Galway. You’ll stay in Galway for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This inviting monastery is sure to impress. Next on your list is Connemara National Park, another must-visit landmark and underrated national park renowned for its awe-inspiring features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Galway by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Walled Victorian Garden. This romantic botanical garden is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Galway experience.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Ireland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Galleon Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try John Keogh's Gastropub? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at RÉ NAO as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Galway.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Garavan's Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Caribou is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Tonerys Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

On day 9 of your road trip in Ireland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Dublin are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dublin, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Kilmainham Gaol is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This respected museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Guinness Storehouse, another must-visit landmark and interesting brewery renowned for its instagrammable features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Galway by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to St Patrick's Cathedral. This breathtaking church is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Galway experience. We also recommend visiting Ha'penny Bridge, a well-known monument.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dublin, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Peadar Kearney's Pub, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Lotts Cafe Bar? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Merchant's Arch as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Mulligan's, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, John Kavanagh The Gravediggers provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cassidy's offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 10 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 1 night.

Don’t miss Grafton Street today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Enjoy all that National Gallery Of Ireland has to offer. This is a notable art gallery you should not miss. Another must-see is Book Of Kells, a well-known museum in Dublin.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Molly Malone Statue. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Dublin Castle, another of the city’s locally renowned attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Phoenix Park, a standout place of interest in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Ireland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Dublin's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Make sure to reserve a table at Taste Food Company, 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 Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, 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 Confession Box, 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 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.

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

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Cork, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Check out the popular castle, Rock Of Cashel. Afterward, continue to Brú Ború Heritage Centre, a cultural center 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.

Next, make your way to Cashel Folk Village. This worthwhile museum is an essential stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cork. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, an iconic dining spot in Cork. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ziggys Bar, a popular restaurant in Cork. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Luigi Malones Cork, a hidden gem nestled in Cork. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!