12-Day Ireland Road Trip from Dublin traveling west to Waterford City Metropolitan District, Killarney, Limerick, and Galway

Your road trip adventure in Ireland begins as soon as you reach Dublin and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Dublin for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Dublin is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out James Joyce Statue or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Dublin. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

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.

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

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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Dublin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Take the opportunity to see National Botanic Gardens. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,941 visitors.

Guinness Storehouse is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This tourist attraction has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,378 travelers.

Dublin is also the home of St Patrick's Cathedral. Around 21,374 people have rated this anglican or episcopal cathedral an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is St Stephen's Green. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from a total of 29,869 reviews, a visit to this park is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Dublin is also your chance to admire National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology. This must-visit national museum enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,538 reviews. Approximately 370,965 people travel to Dublin every year to see this attraction with their own eyes.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. 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 book a table at Taste Food Company, a popular restaurant in Dublin. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dublin at Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is The Confession Box. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Dublin tonight.

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

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

Day 3 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Dublin. You have 1 night left in Dublin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Drop by the renowned Book of Kells. This popular codex has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,760 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Molly Malone Statue. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 11,943 visitors, this point of interest deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Dublin Castle. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 31,657 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Dublin Zoo, drawing over 1,105,005 yearly visitors. This zoo and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,781 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Phoenix Park. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 37,460 travelers, this park is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Dublin.

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. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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 satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. The Bridge 1859 is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Dame Tavern, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Mary's Bar & Hardware. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Enniskerry, The Municipal District of Bray, Wicklow, and Kilkenny. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Waterford City Metropolitan District, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Dublin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Enniskerry. Your travel time is around 49 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Powerscourt House & Gardens, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,555 reviews.

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Powerscourt Waterfall. This extraordinary waterfall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,433 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Waterford City Metropolitan District. Waterford City Metropolitan District 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.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Everett's in Waterford City Metropolitan District by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Everett's offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Bodega offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Revolution Craft Beer & Whiskey Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Waterford City Metropolitan District.

Continue your lively evening at Geoff's Cafe Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Gingerman is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, An Uisce Beatha ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, Cahir, and Carrigtwohill. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Killarney. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Waterford City Metropolitan District 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 1 hour 13 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.

Kick off the day at Rock of Cashel, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,650 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cahir. This car ride takes around 17 min.

Take the opportunity to see Cahir Castle. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,177 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Killarney, 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 in Killarney. 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Malarkey, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Mad Monk by Quinlans offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Vendricks Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Killarney.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like John M. Reidy, known for its lively atmosphere. Courtney's Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Jimmy Brien's offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Cork, and Blarney, 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 Limerick. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cork, 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 Killarney to Cork may take around 1 hour 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cork, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Fitzgerald's Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cork, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,236 visitors.

Cork City Gaol is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,984 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Cork Opera House. Visitors have rated this opera house an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,872 reviews.

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

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Blarney Stone. This much-appreciated stone is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,888 reviews.

Next up is Blarney Castle & Gardens. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,871 visitors.

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

As you explore more of Limerick, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Collins Bar Dooradoyle, a top-rated dining destination in Limerick. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Freddy’s Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bobby Byrne's. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Limerick this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Charlie Chaplin's Pub. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, South's Pub offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Glen Tavern, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip in Ireland. With 1 night left in Limerick, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Killarney, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Limerick. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 41 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Ross Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,240 reviews.

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

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

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Old Quarter GastroPub, a top-rated dining spot in Limerick. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cornstore Limerick, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Taikichi. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Limerick.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Fitzgerald's Bar. Alternatively, go to Ma Hogans Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Portley's Bar 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!

On day 8 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 Limerick, and Bunratty. In the evening, you’ll end up in Galway, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Arthur's Quay Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,231 visitors.

Next, make your way to King John's Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,790 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Limerick, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bunratty. This drive usually takes around 17 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, a remarkable museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,575 reviews.

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.

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

Savor the flavors at The Front Door Pub, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Busker Brownes. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Galway tonight.

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

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.

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Galway, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Eyre Square. This square is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Galway, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,318 visitors.

Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,704 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

When you’ve had your share of Galway, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Strokestown. Your travel time is around 1 hour 34 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Strokestown Park House & Gardens. This museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 608 visitors.

The National Famine Museum, Strokestown Park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This museum has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 589 visitors.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Apoema Bistro, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Finnegans offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Gemelle's is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Galway.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Crane Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, O'Connor's Famous Pub provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Sally Longs Rock Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 10 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Galway for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Make Spanish Arch your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 5,825 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Galway City Museum. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,260 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this city museum every year. In fact, this attraction welcomes 161,558 annual visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Garavan's Bar. Alternatively, go to Caribou, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Tonerys Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Kinvarra, Gort, and Loughrea Municipal District. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dublin, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Kinvarra’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Galway behind. This drive usually takes around 32 min. Kinvarra welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Dunguaire Castle. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,888 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Kinvarra, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gort. Your travel time is around 15 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Coole Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Gort, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,392 visitors.

Coole Park Nature Reserve is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 582 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

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.

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.

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, John Fallon's "The Capstan Bar" stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

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

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

Maximize your last day in Ireland and go on a shopping spree in Dublin’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Ireland.

Make Ha'penny Bridge your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this footbridge an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,413 reviews.

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

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

You’ll then say farewell to Dublin. 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!