12-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin traveling south to Wexford, Waterford City Metropolitan District, Cork, and Limerick

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 4 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Dublin.

Whether you decide to explore Dublin on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Make a stop at Phoenix Park. This notable park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Dublin Zoo located in Dublin for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Guinness Storehouse. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the brewery, continue your tour of the city with a visit to St Patrick's Cathedral. Visitors usually appreciate the majestic features of this church.

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.

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.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bruxelles. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Light House Cinema, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bowe's Lounge Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

Day 3 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Dublin. You have 3 nights left in Dublin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Dublin is brimming with adventures.

No visit to Dublin is complete without St Stephen's Green. This popular park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Dublin Castle, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Dublin, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. This intriguing church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Dublinia, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. National Botanic Gardens is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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.

Dublin 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 Dublin.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Brazen Head, a popular restaurant in Dublin. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dublin at Bewley's Grafton Street, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Dublin tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Bridge 1859 after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Dame Tavern for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Mary's Bar & Hardware is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Day 4 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

National Gallery Of Ireland makes a great addition to your morning plans. This captivating art gallery is a standout place to see in Dublin. Continue your discovery at National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, a respected museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Dublin, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Book Of Kells. This locally renowned museum offers a historic encounter with Dublin. Next, make your way to Irish Whiskey Museum to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Molly Malone Statue, an interesting monument 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.

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.

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 Dublin, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at SOLE Seafood & Grill, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kehoes Pub is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Cobblestone. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dublin tonight.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", known for its inviting atmosphere.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Ireland.

On day 6 of your road trip in Ireland, your travel plans include 4 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. The Municipal District of Bray, Enniskerry, Wicklow, and Laragh are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Wexford, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dublin, you’ll hit the road in the direction of The Municipal District of Bray. This drive usually takes around 46 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Bray Seafront. Spend some time admiring the serene features of the beach before you continue to your next stop.

When you arrive in Enniskerry, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Powerscourt House & Gardens, an increasingly popular botanical garden in Enniskerry. Explore its eye-catching features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Dublin’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: The Municipal District of Bray. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 46 min. When you arrive in The Municipal District of Bray, it's time to take a break from the road.

Our first attraction recommendation in The Municipal District of Bray is Powerscourt Waterfall, an often recommended waterfall that draws attention for its mesmerizing features.

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

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 Wexford, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Trimmers Lane Cafe, a highly-rated dining destination in Wexford. If you're eager to try something different, consider Vine Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Cistín Eile. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Wexford this evening.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Barntown, Slade, and Kilkenny. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Waterford City Metropolitan District, where will spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Slade and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 50 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Slade beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Irish National Heritage Park, a frequently visited museum in Barntown. Explore its picture-perfect features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Barntown, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Slade. Your travel time is around 50 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Hook Lighthouse and explore the instagrammable features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kilkenny and set your GPS to Waterford City Metropolitan District. 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 37 min. Upon reaching Waterford City Metropolitan District, 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 Kilkenny Castle, a notable castle that everyone visiting Kilkenny should see. Next, head to Kilkenny Castle. This awe-inspiring park is one of the most interesting attractions in the region.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Waterford City Metropolitan District. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

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

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Waterford City Metropolitan District by reserving a table at Everett's. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bodega, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Geoff's Cafe Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Gingerman, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, An Uisce Beatha provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Your itinerary for day 8 of your road trip in Ireland includes 3 stops and features some of the highlights of Midleton, Carrigtwohill, and Cobh. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cork, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Midleton, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Waterford City Metropolitan District to Midleton may take around 1 hour 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Midleton, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Midleton Distillery Experience, a beloved distillery known for its historic features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Carrigtwohill. This car ride takes around 14 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Fota Wildlife Park, a captivating wildlife reserve known for its stunning features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cobh may take around 10 min. Upon your arrival in Cobh, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Titanic Experience Cobh, a worthwhile museum in Cobh. Explore its standout features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Spike Island Tours Cobh. This underrated castle is a top recommendation in the area.

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.

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

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.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Impala, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Shelbourne Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Oval provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

Greet day 9 of your road trip in Ireland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Cork, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Killarney.

When you’ve had your share of Cork, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Killarney. Your travel time is around 1 hour 13 min.

Savor the day by heading to Ross Castle, a beloved castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to St Mary's Cathedral, Killarney, where you can soak in the symbolic surroundings.

Set your GPS to Killarney and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 13 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Killarney beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Muckross House and explore the eye-catching features. Next, make your way to Killarney National Park, another highlight in Killarney. When you’re done exploring the national park, continue to Torc Mountain, a mesmerizing waterfall.

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

Cork 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 Cork.

Make sure to reserve a table at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, 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 Liberty Grill, 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 Canty's Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Cork. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Blarney and Bunratty. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Limerick, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Cork, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Blarney. Your travel time is around 20 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Blarney Stone and explore the standout features. Next, make your way to Blarney Castle & Gardens, another highlight in Blarney.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cliffs Of Moher. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the cliff before you continue to your next stop.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Limerick. This drive usually takes around 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

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.

Limerick 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 Limerick.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Collins Bar Dooradoyle, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Freddy’s Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bobby Byrne's is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Limerick.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Charlie Chaplin's Pub stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, South's Pub offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. The Glen Tavern is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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 4 destinations, including Cahir, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, The Municipal District of Kildare — Newbridge, and The Municipal District of Clane — Maynooth. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Dublin, where you'll spend 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Limerick and set your GPS to Cahir. 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 1 hour 3 min. Upon reaching Cahir, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Cahir Castle is an often recommended castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its historic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cahir and set your GPS to The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel. 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 17 min. Upon reaching The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Rock Of Cashel is a captivating castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its symbolic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, The Municipal District of Kildare — Newbridge. This car ride takes around 1 hour 5 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Irish National Stud & Gardens, an up-and-coming botanical garden known for its mesmerizing features.

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

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.

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

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