13-Day Ireland Road Trip from Cork to Waterford City Metropolitan District, Dublin, Sligo, Galway, and Killarney

Welcome to Cork, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Ireland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Cork's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Cork 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 St Patrick's Bridge 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 Cork. 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 Cork. 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Goldie, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional seafood menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby Bib Gourmand-awardee, Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, known for its delicious japanese cuisine. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Liberty Grill. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Cork tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Shelbourne Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Oval, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

Raise a toast to the start of your 13-day road trip in Ireland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Ballincollig, Cork, and Blarney. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Waterford City Metropolitan District, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Fitzgerald's Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,170 visitors.

Next, make your way to Cork City Gaol. This top attraction is a prison with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,919 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Ballincollig.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Regional Park Ballincollig. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,121 visitors.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Waterford City Metropolitan District by booking a table at Everett's, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Revolution Craft Beer & Whiskey Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Emiliano's. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Waterford City Metropolitan District this evening.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Cahir, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, and Kilkenny. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dublin, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Waterford City Metropolitan District, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cahir may take around 1 hour 5 min. Upon your arrival in Cahir, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

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

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel. This car ride takes around 17 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Rock of Cashel. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,510 reviews.

Brú Ború Heritage Centre is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 187 reviews.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dublin.

Begin your culinary exploration in Dublin by securing a reservation at Bastible. This renowned restaurant offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Patrick Guilbaud, celebrated for its delectable modern french menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Light House Cinema, known for its lively atmosphere.

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Dublin, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dublin and set your GPS to Swords. 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 28 min. Upon reaching Swords, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Malahide Castle & Gardens. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,238 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Enniskerry. This drive usually takes around 49 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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 9,458 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, The Municipal District of Bray.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Powerscourt Waterfall. This waterfall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,309 reviews.

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

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

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Make Dublin Castle one of your first sightseeing stops in Dublin. Rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 31,463 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Molly Malone Statue is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This sightseeing destination is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 11,774 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Ha'penny Bridge. This footbridge has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,278 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Dublin Zoo and find out why 1,105,005 people visit this spot every year. A trip to this popular zoo is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 25,663 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Phoenix Park. This park enjoys an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 37,298 local and international travelers.

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. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Ireland by scrolling down and selecting 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.

Make sure to reserve a table at FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar, 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 Mr Fox, 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 Porterhouse Temple Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Dublin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

Day 6 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.

Kick off the day at National Botanic Gardens, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,718 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Guinness Storehouse. Guinness Storehouse is a tourist attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,154 reviews.

St Patrick's Cathedral is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This anglican or episcopal cathedral is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 21,169 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit St Stephen's Green. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,521 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology, a famous national museum in Dublin. This attraction welcomes 370,965 visitors annually and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,321 travelers.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Dine in style at The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, PHX Bistro boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Vintage Kitchen. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dublin.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 4 vibrant destinations - The Municipal District of Ashbourne, The Municipal District of Trim, Slane, and Manorhamilton Municipal District. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sligo. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of The Municipal District of Ashbourne.

Kick off the day at Hill of Tara, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This archaeological site is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,276 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Slane, 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 The Municipal District of Trim to Slane may take around 34 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Slane, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Trim Castle. This extraordinary castle has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,117 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Sligo. Sligo 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 explore more of Sligo, 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.

Make sure to book a table at Coach Lane Restaurant @ Donaghy's Bar, a popular restaurant in Sligo. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sligo at The Harp Tavern, 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 Fiddlers Creek Restaurant & Bar. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Sligo tonight.

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

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Ireland!

Day 8 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Letterkenny has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Letterkenny by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the town.

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 Sligo.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hargadon Bros, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Rugantino offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Knox. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sligo.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Shoot the Crows is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Swagman Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is The Garavogue Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

On day 9 of your road trip in Ireland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. In the evening, you’ll end up in Galway, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Drop by the renowned Walled Victorian Garden. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,338 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Connemara National Park. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,644 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden. This cafe has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,674 reviews.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Front Door Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? O'Connell's Bar Galway offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Zappis Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Galway.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Tigh Neachtain after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Crane Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, O'Connor's Famous Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Head back to your accommodation in Galway and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip 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.

Drop by the renowned Galway City Museum. This popular city museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,232 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 161,558 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Spanish Arch. Rated 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,753 visitors, this point of interest deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to The Latin Quarter. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,096 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Great Escape Rooms. This sightseeing destination and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,162 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,556 travelers, this catholic cathedral is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Galway.

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.

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.

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

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Caribou offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Taaffes Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Monroe's Tavern is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Galway and Ennistimon, 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 Killarney. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

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 13,114 visitors.

Take the opportunity to see Cliffs of Moher. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 32,664 visitors.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting John M. Reidy, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Courtney's Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Jimmy Brien's likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 12 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Killarney, Carrigtwohill, and Cobh. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cork, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Cobh’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Carrigtwohill behind. This drive usually takes around 10 min. Cobh welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make Fota Wildlife Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,379 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Cork. Cork 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 Cork. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Luigi Malones Cork, 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 Costigan's Pub, 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 Hayfield Manor Hotel, a hidden gem nestled in Cork. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

Day 13 of your road trip in Ireland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cork before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Ireland, take time to indulge in shopping at Cork’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Ireland. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Ireland forever.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to National Monument. This monument is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 457 visitors.

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

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

You’ll then say farewell to Cork. 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!