12-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork traveling west to Galway, Clifden, Lisdoonvarna, Limerick, and Killarney

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Cork and Glanmire. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Galway, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Let Elizabeth Fort set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect castle before continuing your journey. Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral is your next stop. This beloved church is one of the best-rated sights in Cork.

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 Crawford Art Gallery. This history-steeped art gallery is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Cork Opera House.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cork and set your GPS to Glanmire. 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 14 min. Upon reaching Glanmire, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Munster Technological University, a worthwhile astronomical observatory that everyone visiting Glanmire should see.

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

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Galway by securing a reservation at Éan. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Aniar, celebrated for its delectable modern and irish menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Dew Drop Inn. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Freeney's Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Tigh Neachtain provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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.

Day 4 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Cork. You’ll stay in Galway for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Don’t miss Salthill today, a must-see neighborhood 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. While you’re in the area, consider visiting Shop Street, another street that adds to the charm of Galway.

Make a stop at Port Of Galway. This frequently visited marina is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Great Escape Rooms located in Galway for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Galway Atlantaquaria. Its visually striking features will captivate you.

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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Apoema Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Galway. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Finnegans, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gemelle's. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Galway this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Crane Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, O'connor's Famous Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Sally Longs Rock Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Ireland, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Galway and Clifden are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Clifden, where you will stay for 1 night.

To truly experience Galway, make sure to drop by Eyre Square. This well-known public square is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Galway City Museum, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Spanish Arch, one of the most beloved places to see in Galway. This historical landmark is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this church offers.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Ardagh Hotel & Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Clifden. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Off The Square Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Guys Bar Clifden. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Clifden this evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Clifden and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland.

On day 8 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Limerick. You’ll stay in Limerick for 2 nights.

Awaiting your discovery is the often recommended Arthur's Quay Park, a visually striking park in Limerick. Next, go to Hunt Museum.

After visiting Arthur's Quay Park and Hunt Museum, have a stroll along Limerick's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to King John's Castle. This culturally significant castle offers a unique experience. Saint Mary's Cathedral is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Treaty Stone, one of the most culturally significant places to visit in Limerick.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at The Old Quarter GastroPub, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Cornstore Limerick beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Taikichi. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Limerick tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Fitzgerald's Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Ma Hogans Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Portley's Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Ireland!

Your itinerary for day 10 of your road trip in Ireland includes 4 stops and features some of the highlights of Blennerville, Dingle, Kenmare, and Killarney. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Killarney, where you'll spend 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Blennerville, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Limerick to Blennerville may take around 1 hour 32 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Blennerville, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Blennerville Windmill. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the museum before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Blennerville, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Dingle. This drive usually takes around 45 min.

Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium is a beloved aquarium we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Kenmare, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Dingle to Kenmare may take around 9 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kenmare, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Conor Pass, an up-and-coming cliff known for its idyllic features.

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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Malarkey, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Mad Monk by Quinlans beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Vendricks Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Killarney tonight.

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

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

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Kinsale, Carrigtwohill, and Cobh. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cork, where you'll spend 1 night.

Kinsale’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Killarney behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 34 min. Kinsale welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Our first attraction recommendation in Kinsale is Charles Fort, an intriguing castle that draws attention for its breathtaking features.

After soaking in Kinsale’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Carrigtwohill. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 43 min. When you arrive in Carrigtwohill, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Fota Wildlife Park, a well-known wildlife reserve in Carrigtwohill. Explore its picturesque features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cobh. This car ride takes around 10 min.

Savor the day by heading to Titanic Experience Cobh, a locally appreciated museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Spike Island Tours Cobh, where you can soak in the historic surroundings.

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

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