12-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin to Carlingford and Sligo and surrounding area

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

Today's adventure in Dublin promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at National Botanic Gardens. This mesmerizing botanical garden is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin, another historic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to St Patrick's Cathedral, one of the city’s most popular attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Guinness Storehouse. This instagrammable brewery is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Phoenix Park, a popular park, and take a stroll around the area.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Ireland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Bastible in Dublin by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Bastible delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Patrick Guilbaud, acclaimed for its delectable modern french specialties. This local 2-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Want to go on another culinary journey? Delight your senses at Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a top-rated restaurant known for its outstanding menu. Known as a top-rated 2-star Michelin establishment, it's a top choice for modern cuisine in the city.

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

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dublin for 6 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the notable Dublin Zoo, a gorgeous zoo in Dublin. Next, go to St Stephen's Green.

After visiting Dublin Zoo and St Stephen's Green, have a stroll along Dublin's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology. This photogenic museum offers a unique experience. National Gallery Of Ireland is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Ireland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Brazen Head, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bewley's Grafton Street offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dublin.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Bridge 1859, known for its lively atmosphere. The Dame Tavern is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Mary's Bar & Hardware offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 5 nights you have left in Dublin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites await you in Dublin on today’s itinerary. First up is the increasingly popular university, Trinity College Dublin. Afterward, continue to Book Of Kells, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Dublin’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Irish Whiskey Museum. This up-and-coming museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Molly Malone Statue, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Dublin Castle, a locally renowned castle in the city.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Ireland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar" after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Ireland. With 3 nights left in Dublin, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Dublin today. One of the most curiosity-inducing attractions included on the itinerary is Farmleigh House & Estate. This enchanting palace will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved St. Catherine's Park (fingal).

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

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

Savor the flavors at Quays, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Keoghs Cafe beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Café en Seine. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dublin tonight.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Dublin, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Immerse yourself in Dublin’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Forty Foot. This romantic beach is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of James Joyce Tower And Museum, a must-visit museum in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police, an intriguing marina. For a change of scene, check out National Maritime Museum Of Ireland, known for its historic features. We also recommend visiting People's Park. This park is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest.

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

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

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

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

On day 8 of your road trip in Ireland, you’ll start and end your day in Dublin, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Dublin for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Dundrum and Dún Laoghaire to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Dublin, including a park, a monument, and an observation deck. Start your adventure at Marlay Park. This curiosity-inducing park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to The Obelisk located in Dublin for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Killiney Hill Park. Its majestic features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Killiney Hill Viewpoint. Visitors usually appreciate the mesmerizing features of this observation deck. Next up is Cabinteely Park, a highly recommended park.

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

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Bar Italia ristorante, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Slattery's is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Darkey Kelly's. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dublin tonight.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Ireland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!