13-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork to Killarney and Galway

On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cork, where you still have 2 nights left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Cork and Blarney.

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

Your adventure in Cork is only getting started when you visit Fitzgerald's Park, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Cork Public Museum. This locally appreciated museum is known for its idyllic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Cork's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral. This stunning church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Crawford Art Gallery is also worth visiting.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Blarney may take around 19 min. Upon your arrival in Blarney, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Our first attraction recommendation in Blarney is Blarney Stone, a beloved monument that draws attention for its breathtaking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Blarney Castle & Gardens, a visually striking castle that stands out in the city.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Cork, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, a top-rated dining destination in Cork. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Liberty Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Canty's Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cork this evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cork, where you have 1 night left to stay.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kinsale may take around 29 min. Upon your arrival in Kinsale, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Kinsale Mead Co. And explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to St. Multose Church Of Ireland, another highlight in Kinsale. When you’re done exploring the church, continue to Charles Fort, a breathtaking castle.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Ziggys Bar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Luigi Malones Cork. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cork.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Ballylickey and Kenmare. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Killarney, where will spend 5 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Cork, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ballylickey. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 10 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Snave Pier, Ballylickey (cé Snave), an often recommended pier that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Savor the day by heading to The Ewe Experience, a worthwhile sculpture garden that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kenmare, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Killarney. This drive usually takes around 39 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Kenmare is Holy Cross Catholic Church, Kenmare, a beloved church that draws attention for its standout features.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Malarkey, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Mad Monk by Quinlans offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Vendricks Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Killarney.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

Wake up to day 7 of your road trip in Ireland. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Dingle. With 2 nights to stay in Killarney, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Dingle is brimming with adventures.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Dingle, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Killarney to Dingle may take around 1 hour 9 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dingle, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Kingdom Falconry, a locally appreciated bird watching area that everyone visiting Dingle should see. Next, head to Dingle Distillery. This photogenic distillery is one of the most locally appreciated attractions in the region.

If you're keen to see more, don’t miss out on Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, an instagrammable aquarium popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at O'Connors Traditional Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Killarney. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kitty O’Se’s Seafood and Grill Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at O'Donoghue Public House. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Killarney this evening.

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

On day 8 of your road trip in Ireland, you’ll start and end your day in Killarney, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Killarney, there’s no need to rush. Experience Ballineanig, Dunquin, and Kenmare to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

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 Ballineanig. Your travel time is around 1 hour 19 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Riasc Monastic Settlement, a curiosity-inducing archeological site known for its inviting features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Dunquin, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Ballineanig to Dunquin may take around 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dunquin, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the hamlet's best attractions, visit Cé Dhún Chaoin / Dunquin Pier, a worthwhile pier that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Dunquin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kenmare. Your travel time is around 5 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Coumeenoole and explore the stunning features.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Danny Mann Pub, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Café Du Parc beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Murphys Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse Killarney. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Killarney tonight.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Ireland.

At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Galway, where you'll spend 3 nights.

Clahane Viewpoint is a beloved cliff we recommend visiting today. Discover its majestic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Moher Hill Open Farm And Leisure Park, a picture-perfect farm that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Cliffs Of Moher, a mesmerizing cliff.

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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Front Door Pub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Busker Brownes. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Galway tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Dew Drop Inn, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Freeney's Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Tigh Neachtain is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Ireland.

Day 10 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Cork. You’ll stay in Galway for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Shop Street, a street that captures the true essence of Galway. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Your adventure in Galway is only getting started when you visit Galway City Museum, a worthwhile local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is The Latin Quarter. This frequently visited street is known for its standout appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Galway's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Great Escape Rooms. Eyre Square is also worth visiting.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Ireland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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 delicious dinner at Apoema Bistro, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Finnegans offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Gemelle's. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Galway.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Crane Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. O'connor's Famous Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Sally Longs Rock Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Dive into day 12 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cork, where you'll spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 2 hours 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Cashel Folk Village, a beloved museum in The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel. Explore its respected features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Brú Ború Heritage Centre. This intriguing cultural center is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Rock Of Cashel is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most breathtaking castle in the region.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Cork. Cork offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Dine in style at The Imperial Hotel & SPA, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Tony's Bistro boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Costigan's Pub. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cork.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!