Relaxed 12-Day Ireland Road Trip from Cork to Galway, and Dublin

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Cork and drive in the direction of the town of Blarney for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Galway, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Cork Opera House. This extraordinary opera house is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,872 visitors.

Next, make your way to Fitzgerald's Park. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,236 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Cork City Gaol. This prison is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,984 travelers.

Set your GPS to Blarney and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Blarney beckons with new experiences!

Make Blarney Castle & Gardens your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,871 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Blarney Stone. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,888 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this stone every year.

In the city of Galway, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Ireland.

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.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Éan in Galway by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Éan delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Aniar, acclaimed for its delectable modern, and irish specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

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.

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

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

Day 3 of your self-drive tour in Ireland is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Dublin for 8 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Ireland.

Take the opportunity to see Eyre Square. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,318 visitors.

Great Escape Rooms is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,221 travelers.

Galway is also the home of Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway. Around 4,704 people have rated this catholic cathedral an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is Spanish Arch. With an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from a total of 5,825 reviews, a visit to this sightseeing destination is a great idea.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kinvarra. This drive usually takes around 34 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Dunguaire Castle. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 4,888 reviews.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Dublin. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Dublin by securing a table at Bastible. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Patrick Guilbaud, famous for its scrumptious modern french dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Dublin. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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.

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

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

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Dublin and visit amazing attractions in Glendalough, Wicklow, The Municipal District of Bray, and Enniskerry destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 6 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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dublin, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Glendalough. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Glendalough Cathedral. This popular church building has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,115 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Glendalough, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Wicklow. Your travel time is around 31 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Wicklow Mountains National Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,625 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Wicklow, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of The Municipal District of Bray. Your travel time is around 26 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Powerscourt Waterfall. This waterfall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,433 reviews.

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

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.

Don’t miss out on dining 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 satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin 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 Dublin. The bars in Dublin make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Bridge 1859, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Dame Tavern offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Mary's Bar & Hardware. 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 toast to another unforgettable, laid-back 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 5 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.

Kick off the day at Dublin Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 31,657 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin is an anglican or episcopal cathedral with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,634 reviews.

Dublinia is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,897 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Phoenix Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 37,460 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Swords. This drive usually takes around 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Malahide Castle & Gardens one of your first sightseeing stops in Swords. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,383 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at SOLE Seafood & Grill, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kehoes Pub? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Cobblestone as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick 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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar". Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

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

On day 7 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!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Book Of Kells. This much-appreciated codex is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,760 reviews.

Next up is Irish Whiskey Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,247 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Molly Malone Statue. This sightseeing destination has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 11,943 reviews.

Ha'penny Bridge is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This footbridge has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,413 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to National Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,941 reviews.

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.

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 delightful dinner at The Stags Head, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Chapter One Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Bank on College Green as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick 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 to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Ireland!

Day 8 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!

Take the opportunity to see Dublin Zoo. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,781 visitors and gets around 1,105,005 visits every year.

National Museum Of Ireland – Decorative Arts And History is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,393 travelers. Up to 313,790 people visit National Museum Of Ireland – Decorative Arts And History every year.

Dublin is also the home of Guinness Storehouse. Around 19,378 people have rated this tourist attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is St Patrick's Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 21,374 reviews, a visit to this anglican or episcopal cathedral is a great idea.

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 book a table at Quays, 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 Keoghs Cafe, 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 Café en Seine. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Dublin tonight.

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.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Ireland!

Day 9 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Iveagh Gardens. This urban park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Dublin, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,024 visitors.

St Stephen's Green is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 29,869 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology. Visitors have rated this national museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,538 reviews. National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology receives around 370,965 visitors every year.

National Gallery Of Ireland is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is an art gallery rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 14,801 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Natural History Museum, perhaps the most famous national museum in Dublin. This attraction welcomes around 108,615 visitors annually and is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,974 travelers.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Dublin by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

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.

Savor the flavors at FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Winding Stair beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Mayfield Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dublin tonight.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Ireland continues on day 10, 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 Dún Laoghaire 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.

Set your GPS to Dún Laoghaire and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 39 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Dún Laoghaire beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,180 reviews.

Next up, make your way to People's Park. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,465 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Forty Foot. This promontory has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,373 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Killiney Hill Park. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,391 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dún Laoghaire, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Dundrum. This drive usually takes around 21 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Marlay Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,367 reviews.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Bar Italia ristorante, a top-rated dining spot in Dublin. If you're in the mood for something new, try Slattery's, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Darkey Kelly's. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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 in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Ireland!

Day 11 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of 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!

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dublin and set your GPS to Kilkenny. 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 1 hour 34 min. Upon reaching Kilkenny, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Kilkenny Castle. This schloss country house museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Kilkenny, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,966 visitors.

Kilkenny Castle is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,597 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kilkenny, you’ll hit the road in the direction of The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel. This drive usually takes around 53 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Brú Ború Heritage Centre. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 189 visitors.

When you’re finished at Brú Ború Heritage Centre, head to Rock Of Cashel. This one-of-a-kind castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,650 reviews.

Set your GPS to Cahir and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cahir beckons with new experiences!

Kick off the day at Cahir Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,177 reviews.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Cork. 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.

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 Cork, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Cork by booking a table at Goldie. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, celebrated for its delectable japanese menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Cork.

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