12-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin traveling west to Waterford City Metropolitan District, Killarney, Cork, and Galway

Day 2 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Dublin. You have 4 nights left in Dublin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Dublin, including a park, a museum, and an art gallery. Start your day at St Stephen's Green. This eye-catching park is an interesting place to see in Dublin. Then, wander over to Book Of Kells. If instagrammable sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology. This photogenic museum 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, Natural History Museum is a curiosity-inducing spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the museum, don’t forget to check out the heritage-rich National Gallery Of Ireland. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this popular art gallery 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.

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

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 culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bruxelles stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Light House Cinema offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bowe's Lounge Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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.

Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Dublin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Dublin, including a park, a zoo, a monument, a brewery, a botanical garden and much more! Start your day with a visit to Phoenix Park. This captivating park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Dublin Zoo, which may be one of the most picture-perfect 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 Molly Malone Statue, one of the city’s most captivating monument. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Guinness Storehouse and National Botanic Gardens.

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 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.

Make sure to book a table at The Brazen Head, 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 Bewley's Grafton Street, 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 Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Dublin tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Bridge 1859, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Dame Tavern offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Mary's Bar & Hardware provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dublin for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Immerse yourself in Dublin’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at St Patrick's Cathedral. This stunning church is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the heritage-rich features of Dublinia, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin, a curiosity-inducing church. For a change of scene, check out Dublin Castle, known for its culturally significant 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.

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 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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar" offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Dublin, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Today's adventure in Wicklow promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences!

Set your GPS to Wicklow and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 55 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Wicklow beckons with new experiences!

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Wicklow Mountains National Park, a beloved national park that draws visitors from near and far.

The Municipal District of Bray’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Wicklow behind. This drive usually takes around 26 min. The Municipal District of Bray welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Powerscourt Waterfall, an increasingly popular waterfall known for its eye-catching features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to The Municipal District of Bray and set your GPS to Enniskerry. 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 14 min. Upon reaching Enniskerry, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Powerscourt House & Gardens. Spend some time admiring the mesmerizing features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop.

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.

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.

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

On day 6 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 Kilkenny, Slade, and Whitechurch. In the evening, you’ll end up in Waterford City Metropolitan District, where you will stay for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Kilkenny. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dublin, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kilkenny. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 34 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Kilkenny Castle, a well-known park in Kilkenny. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Kilkenny Castle. This captivating castle is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kilkenny, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Slade. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 17 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take your self-guided tour to Hook Lighthouse, a beloved lighthouse that everyone visiting Slade should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Slade, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Whitechurch may take around 30 min. Upon your arrival in Whitechurch, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at John-f. -kennedy-arboretum, a locally appreciated botanical garden that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Waterford City Metropolitan District's best restaurants.

Have a memorable dining experience in Waterford City Metropolitan District by booking a table at Everett's, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bodega, a popular restaurant in Waterford City Metropolitan District. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Geoff's Cafe Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Gingerman for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, An Uisce Beatha is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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.

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Cork and Bunratty, 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 Galway. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Start your day at Fitzgerald's Park. This mesmerizing park is an often recommended place to see in Cork.

Set your GPS to Bunratty and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 38 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bunratty beckons with new experiences!

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

Make your way to Cliffs Of Moher, a locally renowned cliff that draws attention for its mesmerizing features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Galway, 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 Galway. 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Galway by securing a reservation at Éan. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Aniar, celebrated for its delectable modern and irish menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Dew Drop Inn stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Freeney's Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Tigh Neachtain 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!

On day 10 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Galway. You’ll stay in Galway for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Prepare for a day full of a gorgeous, an eye-catching, a standout, a culturally significant, a remarkable, and a culturally significant. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Spanish Arch. This increasingly popular historical landmark is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Eyre Square, one of the city’s most promising highlights.

Next, check out Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway, one of the most frequently visited places to see in Galway. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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 Galway. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Apoema Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Galway. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Finnegans, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gemelle's. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Galway this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Crane Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to O'connor's Famous Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Sally Longs Rock Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!