Relaxed 12-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin to Kilkenny and Wexford

Day 2 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!

Start your day at Phoenix Park. This serene park is a popular place to see in Dublin. Then, wander over to Dublin Zoo. If eye-catching sites excite you, this zoo will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Guinness Storehouse. This eye-catching brewery is a favorite among visitors.

Dublin offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, St Patrick's Cathedral is a locally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

Ireland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Ireland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Bastible, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Patrick Guilbaud, known for its delicious modern french cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Dublin is Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Dublin. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bruxelles after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Light House Cinema for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bowe's Lounge Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 3 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

St Stephen's Green is an ideal stop early in the day. This interesting park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Dublin on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to National Gallery Of Ireland, a popular art gallery in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Natural History Museum and National Botanic Gardens.

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 new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Dublin has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

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.

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.

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

On day 4 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!

Your adventure in Dublin is only getting started when you visit Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin, an often recommended local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Dublin Castle. This notable castle is known for its historic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Dublin's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Molly Malone Statue. This respected monument offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Irish Whiskey Museum is also worth visiting, along with Book Of Kells. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Ireland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Dublin offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Dublin, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Dine in style at SOLE Seafood & Grill, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kehoes Pub boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Cobblestone. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dublin.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Dublin and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Continue your lively evening at John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across Ireland.

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you’ll explore the area around Dublin, where you’ll be staying for another 3 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Dublin will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Ireland.

Malahide Castle & Gardens leaves a lasting impression. This castle is one of the most popular places to visit in Dublin. Next, head to Santry Park, an intriguing park, known for its enchanting features.

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 idyllic park is a highly recommended experience.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Dublin has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Stags Head, a highly-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're eager to try something different, consider Chapter One Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Bank on College Green. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

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.

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

Your relaxed road trip in Ireland continues on day 7 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Ireland better by exploring the top attractions of Dublin and beyond. With 1 night left in Dublin, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police makes a great addition to your morning plans. This underrated marina is an awe-inspiring place to see in Dublin. Continue your discovery at People's Park, a visually striking park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Dublin, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Forty Foot. This beloved beach offers an eye-catching encounter with Dublin. Next, make your way to Killiney Hill Park to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Marlay Park, an up-and-coming park that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Dublin.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Winding Stair is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Mayfield Restaurant. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dublin tonight.

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.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Dún Laoghaire can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Ireland!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip through Ireland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Kilkenny. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Kilkenny. 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 Kilkenny!

A visit to High Street is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

Kilkenny Castle makes a great addition to your morning plans. This locally renowned park is a visually striking place to see in Kilkenny. Continue your discovery at Kilkenny Castle, a history-steeped castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Kilkenny, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny. This curiosity-inducing brewery offers a historic encounter with Kilkenny. Next, make your way to St Canice's Cathedral to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Kilkenny.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Dublin. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Dublin that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Ireland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Kilkenny to find the best options for you!

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Italian Connection, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Syd Harkin's Pub? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Butcher Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Kilkenny.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Kilkenny’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Ireland.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Blue Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Ryans Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Christy's Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Kilkenny as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Ireland!

Day 10 of your easy, relaxed road trip through Ireland lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Whitechurch. By evening, drive toward the Wexford, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Check out the worthwhile botanical garden, John-f.-kennedy-arboretum. Afterward, continue to Hook Lighthouse, a lighthouse every traveler should visit. As you explore Kilkenny’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village.

Next, make your way to Irish National Heritage Park. This increasingly popular museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Church Of The Assumption - Bride Street Church. , another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Wexford. Staying in the town gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in Ireland.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Wexford has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.

Make sure to reserve a table at Trimmers Lane Cafe, an iconic dining spot in Wexford. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Vine Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Wexford. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Cistín Eile, a hidden gem nestled in Wexford. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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 town.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Sinnott's Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bugler Doyles Bar & Guest Accommodation offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Maggie May's Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Ireland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Ireland tomorrow with new energy.

Day 11 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Ireland offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Rathdrum and continue your relaxed road trip adventure in Laragh and Wicklow. You’ll stay in Dublin for 1 night.

Enjoy all that Beyond The Trees Avondale has to offer. This is a locally appreciated canopy walk you should not miss. Another must-see is Glendalough Cathedral, a beloved church in Wexford.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Wicklow Mountains National Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Powerscourt Waterfall, another of the town’s intriguing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Powerscourt House & Gardens, a romantic place of interest in the town.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Dublin. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the city.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bar Italia ristorante, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Slattery's offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Darkey Kelly's. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice 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.

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