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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 7 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready for an exciting day in Dublin. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a botanical garden, a church, a brewery, a park and much more! Begin your adventure at National Botanic Gardens. This is a captivating botanical garden you should not miss. Another must-see is Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin, an increasingly popular church in Dublin.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to St Patrick's Cathedral. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Guinness Storehouse, another of the city’s notable attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with a standout park. Phoenix Park is a truly remarkable place to visit in Dublin.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Dublin by booking a table at Bastible, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Patrick Guilbaud, renowned for its delectable modern french dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Dublin. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bruxelles offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Light House Cinema is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bowe's Lounge Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Head back to your accommodation in Dublin and get some rest in preparation for another magical day 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.

Today’s itinerary in Dublin covers several incredible sights, including a zoo, a park, a museum, an art gallery and much more! Start your adventure at Dublin Zoo. This captivating zoo is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of St Stephen's Green, a must-see park in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology. This well-known museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to National Gallery Of Ireland, where you can take in heritage-rich features.

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 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Brazen Head, 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 Bewley's Grafton Street, 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 Shack Restaurant Temple Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Dublin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Bridge 1859. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Dame Tavern offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Mary's Bar & Hardware, another top-rated bar in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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.

Today’s agenda in Dublin includes a university, a museum, a monument, a castle and much more! Trinity College Dublin is must-visit university and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Book Of Kells, an interesting museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Irish Whiskey Museum, a respected museum, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Dublin. If you’re looking for more, Molly Malone Statue is also a well-known attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Dublin Castle, a locally renowned gem to see 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at SOLE Seafood & Grill, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kehoes Pub, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Cobblestone. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

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

On day 6 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 3 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Castleknock and Blanchardstown to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Dublin. Some of the village’s most loved attractions await. Farmleigh House & Estate is the perfect place to start. This palace is one of the most often recommended places to visit in Dublin.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to St. Catherine's Park (fingal). This enchanting park offers a unique experience that is highly recommended.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Quays, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Keoghs Cafe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Café en Seine as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.

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

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Ireland. With 2 nights left in Dublin, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Dublin is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Forty Foot, an increasingly popular beach that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find James Joyce Tower And Museum, enchanting visitors with its culturally significant appeal. Continue your exploration at Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police. This marina is one of the town’s most intriguing spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Dublin at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit National Maritime Museum Of Ireland. After exploring the maritime museum, head to the increasingly popular People's Park. This park will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the town.

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

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.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Dublin, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

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 up-and-coming park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to The Obelisk located in Dublin for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Killiney Hill Park. Its romantic features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Killiney Hill Viewpoint. This observation deck has an eye-catching appeal. For a change of pace, head to Cabinteely Park. As one of the most frequently visited attractions in Dublin, this park is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bar Italia ristorante, 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 Slattery's, 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 Darkey Kelly's, a hidden gem nestled in Dublin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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