12-Day Ireland Road Trip from Dingle to Limerick, Galway, Sligo, Dublin, and Cork

Welcome to Dingle, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Ireland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Dingle's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Dingle is a beautiful town with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Dingle. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Ireland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the town.

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

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Ireland!

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Blennerville and Killarney. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Limerick, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kenmare and set your GPS to Blennerville. 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 44 min. Upon reaching Blennerville, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at Blennerville Windmill, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable windmill has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,292 reviews.

After soaking in Blennerville’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Killarney. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 39 min. When you arrive in Killarney, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Ross Castle. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,141 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Limerick, 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 Limerick. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Collins Bar Dooradoyle, a top-rated dining destination in Limerick. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bobby Byrne's, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Old Quarter GastroPub. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Limerick this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, South's Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Glen Tavern is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Red Hen is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bunratty. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Galway. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Bunratty, 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 Limerick to Bunratty may take around 18 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Bunratty, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,442 visitors.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Burren National Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,501 reviews.

Continue your journey at Cliffs of Moher. This cliff is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 32,664 travelers from near and far.

Bunratty is also the home of Aillwee Cave. This show cave has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,904 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Galway. Galway offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Galway.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Front Door Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? O'Connell's Bar Galway offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Zappis Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Galway.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Tigh Neachtain, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Crane Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, O'Connor's Famous Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Head back to your accommodation in Galway and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Galway, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Kick off the day at Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This cafe is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,674 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Walled Victorian Garden. Walled Victorian Garden is a park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,338 reviews.

Connemara National Park is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,644 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Galway. This drive usually takes around 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Dunguaire Castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 4,855 reviews.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Galway. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Galway. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sligo, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Eyre Square, a remarkable square where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,114 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,556 travelers.

Great Escape Rooms is another must-visit attraction. This renowned sightseeing destination offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,162 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 Spanish Arch. This well-loved point of interest boasts a 4.2 out of 5-star rating from 5,753 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Galway City Museum awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a city museum, this is a top pick rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,232 previous visitors. Each year, approximately 161,558 people travel to Galway to experience it.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Sligo, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Coach Lane Restaurant @ Donaghy's Bar, an iconic dining spot in Sligo. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Harp Tavern, a popular restaurant in Sligo. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Fiddlers Creek Restaurant & Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Sligo. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Manorhamilton Municipal District, Slane, The Municipal District of Trim, and The Municipal District of Ashbourne, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Dublin. You’ll stay here for 4 nights.

Upon your arrival in Manorhamilton Municipal District, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Glencar Waterfall. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,524 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. The Municipal District of Trim, 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 Slane to The Municipal District of Trim may take around 34 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in The Municipal District of Trim, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready to see some sights, Slane Castle is a great place to start. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,459 visitors.

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 explore more of Dublin, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Bastible in Dublin by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Bastible offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Patrick Guilbaud, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern french cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Light House Cinema is an excellent place to start.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

Day 7 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Dublin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Make Phoenix Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 37,298 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Dublin Zoo. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,663 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this zoo every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 1,105,005 annual visitors.

Dublin Castle is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 31,463 visitors.

When you’re finished at Dublin Castle, the perfect next stop is Book of Kells. This codex is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,299 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Ha'penny Bridge. This footbridge is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,278 reviews.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Ireland that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Dublin has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Ireland by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Chapter One Restaurant, 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 The Bank on College Green, 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 Café en Seine, 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 draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Ireland.

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dublin for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology. This national museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Dublin, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,321 visitors. Around 370,965 people visit this attraction every year.

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 29,521 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to St Patrick's Cathedral. Visitors have rated this anglican or episcopal cathedral an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 21,169 reviews.

Guinness Storehouse is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a tourist attraction rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 19,154 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic National Botanic Gardens, perhaps the most famous botanical garden in Dublin. This attraction is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,718 travelers.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Dublin has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Dublin offers and add your favorites to your Ireland travel package below.

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

Dine in style at FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Mr Fox boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Porterhouse Temple Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dublin.

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

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Dublin, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Swords, Enniskerry, The Municipal District of Bray, and Wicklow. You still have 1 night left in Dublin.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Swords, 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 Dublin to Swords may take around 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Swords, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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 14,238 visitors.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at St. Catherine's Park (Fingal). This townland is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,798 visitors.

Upon your arrival in Enniskerry, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Powerscourt House & Gardens one of your first sightseeing stops in Enniskerry. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,458 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, PHX Bistro is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Vintage Kitchen. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dublin tonight.

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

On day 10 of your road trip in Ireland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Kilkenny, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, and Cahir. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cork, where you will stay for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kilkenny. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 34 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Drop by the renowned Kilkenny Castle. This popular schloss country house museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,743 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Kilkenny Castle. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,458 visitors, this schloss country house museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Kilkenny, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel may take around 54 min. Upon your arrival in The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Rock of Cashel. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,510 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Cork. Cork offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Goldie, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine is one of the best restaurants for japanese cuisine in Cork. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. You could also check for a table at Liberty Grill. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cork tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Shelbourne Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Oval provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

On day 11 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Cork, Blarney, and Carrigtwohill. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dingle, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Fitzgerald's Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,170 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Blarney.

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 10,764 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Blarney Stone. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,710 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this stone every year.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Dingle, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Dingle's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

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

Day 12 of your road trip in Ireland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dingle before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Ireland, take time to indulge in shopping at Dingle’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the town’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Ireland. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Ireland forever.

Make Dingle Lighthouse (Teach Solais a Daingin) your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 141 reviews.

Before you conclude your road trip in Ireland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dingle.

You’ll then say farewell to Dingle. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Ireland!