Relaxed 12-Day Ireland Road Trip from Killarney to Galway and Kilkenny

Your relaxed road trip through Ireland starts when you reach the incredible town of Killarney, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Killarney and begin your adventure in Ireland.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Muckross Abbey. This extraordinary abbey is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,866 visitors.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Killarney. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Ireland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the town.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Killarney.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Mad Monk by Quinlans, a top-rated dining destination in Killarney. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Shire Bar & Cafe. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Killarney 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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at John M. Reidy, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Courtney's Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Jimmy Brien's, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Ireland. Enjoy your first taste of Killarney as you soak in the town’s unique vibe.

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you’ll explore the area around Killarney, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Killarney will make you fall even more in love with the region and uniqueness of Ireland.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Ross Castle. This extraordinary castle has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,141 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Killarney, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Dingle. Your travel time is around 1 hour 10 min.

Journey into the unknown at Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable aquarium has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,093 reviews.

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

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 town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at O'Connors Traditional Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kitty O’Se’s Seafood and Grill Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss O'Donoghue Public House. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Killarney.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

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

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the city of Limerick and drive in the direction of the village of Bunratty for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Galway, where you’ll stay for 5 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Killarney, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Limerick may take around 1 hour 41 min. Upon your arrival in Limerick, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Journey into the unknown at King John's Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,634 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Limerick and set your GPS to Bunratty. 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 Bunratty, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,442 visitors.

When you're ready to see some sights, Poulnabrone dolmen is a great place to start. This dolmen is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,978 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Aillwee Cave. This show cave has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,904 travelers.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Ireland at Galway. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Exploring the food culture in Galway 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at The Front Door Pub, an iconic dining spot in Galway. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of O'Connell's Bar Galway, a popular restaurant in Galway. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Zappis Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Galway. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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 Galway. The bars in Galway make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Tigh Neachtain, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Crane Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out O'Connor's Famous Pub. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Ireland!

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Galway, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

Make Galway City Museum one of your first sightseeing stops in Galway. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,232 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area. This city museum attracts 161,558 visitors every year.

Spanish Arch is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This point of interest is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 5,753 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by The Latin Quarter. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,096 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to St Augustine's Catholic Parish. A trip to this popular church is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 128 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Great Escape Rooms. This point of interest enjoys an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,162 local and international travelers.

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, Galway 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 A Púcán, a top-rated dining destination in Galway. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Skeff Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Kai Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Galway this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Galway and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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

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

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in the city of Galway and visit amazing attractions in Ireland that travel enthusiasts from around the world often include in their itineraries. Today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in Ireland.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Salmon Weir Bridge. This extraordinary weir is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 212 visitors.

Next, make your way to Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway. This top attraction is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,556 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Quadrangle. This point of interest is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 175 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Menlo. This drive usually takes around 10 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Menlo Castle, a remarkable castle where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 579 reviews.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Ireland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Galway, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Dáil Bar Galway, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Scotty's Burgers & Wings, Galway, Ireland. ? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Quays Bar and Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Galway.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Tigh Chóilí. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Ireland!

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip through Ireland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Galway. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Galway!

Drop by the renowned Port of Galway. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,067 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Eyre Square. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,114 visitors, this square deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Open The Door Escape Room. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 301 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Merlin Castle. This point of interest and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 250 local and international travelers.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Ireland.

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 Galway, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at 1520 Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Esquires - The Organic Coffee Co (Eyre Square) offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Hooked. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Galway.

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 Galway. The bars in Galway make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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.

On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland, you’ll go deep into Galway, where you'll stay for 1 night, 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 Galway, and meet locals along the way!

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Galway Atlantaquaria, National Aquarium of Ireland. This much-appreciated aquarium is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 4,396 reviews.

Next up is Ladies Beach. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 166 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Barna Woods. This park has been rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,089 reviews.

Cappagh Park is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 465 reviews.

Get a more in-depth understanding of Galway by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your relaxed road trip itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities.

Exploring the food culture in Galway 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at The Quay Street Kitchen, an iconic dining spot in Galway. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ard Bia at Nimmos, a popular restaurant in Galway. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Kings Head Bistro, a hidden gem nestled in Galway. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Galway and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Ireland!

Day 8 of your self-drive tour in Ireland is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Kilkenny for 3 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Ireland.

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 Kilkenny. Your travel time is around 2 hours 28 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, The National Reptile Zoo is a great place to start. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,558 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Kilkenny Castle. This schloss country house museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,743 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at St. Mary’s Medieval Mile Museum. The museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 792 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Kilkenny Castle. This schloss country house museum is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,458 reviews.

You’ll be staying at the incredible town of Kilkenny in this laid-back road trip in Ireland. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Ireland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Kilkenny, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Kilkenny by booking a table at Campagne. This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Langtons Hotel Kilkenny, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Italian Connection. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kilkenny this evening.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Kilkenny and take the pulse of the town’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Biddy Early´s is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Tynans Bridge House Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Ryans Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Ireland!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Ireland continues on day 9, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Ireland and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Inistioge and beyond. With 2 nights left in Kilkenny, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the village.

Set your GPS to The Municipal District of Callan — Thomastown and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. The Municipal District of Callan — Thomastown beckons with new experiences!

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Woodstock Gardens & Arboretum. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 764 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Inistioge, you’ll hit the road in the direction of The Municipal District of Callan — Thomastown. This drive usually takes around 17 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Journey into the unknown at Jerpoint Abbey, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable abbey has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 658 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Ballyfoyle, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to The Municipal District of Castlecomer may take around 12 min. Upon your arrival in The Municipal District of Castlecomer, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Jenkinstown Wood And Walled Garden Walk. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 363 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny.

Make sure to book a table at Butcher Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Kilkenny. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Kilkenny at The Pumphouse, 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 Cleere's Bar & Theatre. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny. The bars in Kilkenny make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Keep the evening going at Christy's Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

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

Day 10 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Kilkenny, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

Kick off the day at St. Mary's Cathedral, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 752 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit The Black Abbey. The Black Abbey is a church with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 596 reviews.

Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This tourist attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,148 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit St Canice's Cathedral. This church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,044 visitors.

Tours often allow you to see beyond what books and social media feature about Kilkenny, its culture, and people. So for a more meaningful travel experience in the town, we recommend you join one of the most popular tours available for your relaxed road trip across Ireland.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Ireland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Kilkenny, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Savor the flavors at The Fig Tree Restaurant Kilkenny, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Truffles Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Kytelers Inn. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Kilkenny tonight.

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 and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Ireland!

Day 11 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Ireland is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the town of Cahir and the town of Killarney. You’ll stay in Killarney for 1 night.

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

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Brú Ború Heritage Centre. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 187 reviews.

Next up is Rock of Cashel. This castle has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,510 visitors.

After soaking in The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cahir. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 17 min. When you arrive in Cahir, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cahir Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,042 visitors.

Swiss Cottage is another popular attraction you could visit today. This cottage orné has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 604 visitors.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to The Vee Pass. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 586 reviews.

In the town of Killarney, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Ireland.

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 town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Danny Mann Pub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Café Du Parc is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Murphys Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse Killarney. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Killarney tonight.

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 and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Ireland!

Day 12 of your relaxed road trip in Ireland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Killarney.

Make the most of your final day in Ireland by visiting Killarney’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the town’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Ireland. Take home a piece of Ireland with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

Unwind and look back at the past 12 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Killarney or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Celtic Whiskey Bar & Larder, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Killarney and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 12-day relaxed road trip in Ireland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.