13-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin to Waterford City Metropolitan District, Killarney, Limerick, Lisdoonvarna, and Sligo

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dublin for 5 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a stunning, a photogenic, a respected, a majestic, and a culturally significant. Whether you decide to explore Dublin on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Dublin Castle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant castle before continuing your journey. Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin is your next stop. This often recommended church is one of the best-rated sights in Dublin.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit St Patrick's Cathedral. This stunning church is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Dublin Zoo.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Dublin by reserving a table at Bastible. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Patrick Guilbaud, renowned for its delectable modern french dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dublin.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bruxelles after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Light House Cinema for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bowe's Lounge Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

Day 3 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.

Today's adventure in Dublin promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at National Gallery Of Ireland. This visually striking art gallery is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, another heritage-rich attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to St Stephen's Green, one of the city’s most locally renowned attractions, known for its mesmerizing features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Guinness Storehouse. This standout brewery is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit National Botanic Gardens, a popular botanical garden, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Brazen Head, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Bewley's Grafton Street offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dublin.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Bridge 1859, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Dame Tavern. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Mary's Bar & Hardware, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Day 4 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.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Dublin, including a museum, a monument, and a park. Start your adventure at Book Of Kells. This captivating museum is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Irish Whiskey Museum located in Dublin for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Molly Malone Statue. Its symbolic features will captivate you. After the monument, continue your tour of the city with a visit to National Museum Of Ireland – Decorative Arts And History. This museum has a heritage-rich appeal. For a change of pace, head to Phoenix Park. As one of the most notable attractions in Dublin, this park is an excellent place to end your self-guided tour.

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.

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.

Continue your lively evening at John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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

Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Ireland. With 2 nights left in Dublin, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Malahide. This car ride takes around 28 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Malahide Castle & Gardens, an interesting castle that everyone visiting Malahide should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

After soaking in Malahide’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Dundrum. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 35 min. When you arrive in Dundrum, it's time to take a break from the road.

Spend your afternoon discovering Marlay Park, an increasingly popular park known for its scenic features.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Dundrum, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dún Laoghaire may take around 22 min. Upon your arrival in Dún Laoghaire, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Head to Killiney Hill Park, an underrated park in Dún Laoghaire. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Forty Foot. This intriguing beach is a top recommendation in the area. When you’re ready to explore more, Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most romantic marina in the region.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at The Stags 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 Chapter One Restaurant, 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 Bank on College Green. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Dublin tonight.

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

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Ireland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Dublin for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Laragh, Wicklow, The Municipal District of Bray, and Enniskerry.

After soaking in Dublin’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Laragh. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 11 min. When you arrive in Laragh, it's time to take a break from the road.

Your self-guided tour starts at Glendalough Cathedral, a locally appreciated church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Laragh, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Wicklow. This drive usually takes around 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Take your self-guided tour to Wicklow Mountains National Park, a frequently visited national park that everyone visiting Wicklow should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Wicklow, you’ll hit the road in the direction of The Municipal District of Bray. This drive usually takes around 26 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make your way to Powerscourt Waterfall, a beloved waterfall that draws attention for its awe-inspiring features.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Quays, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Keoghs Cafe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Café en Seine as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, The Municipal District of Castlecomer, Kilkenny, and Barntown. 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.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dublin and set your GPS to The Municipal District of Castlecomer. 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 32 min. Upon reaching The Municipal District of Castlecomer, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make your way to Castlecomer Discovery Park, a locally appreciated adventure park that draws attention for its picturesque features.

Set your GPS to Kilkenny and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kilkenny beckons with new experiences!

Begin your journey at Kilkenny Castle and explore the romantic features. Next, make your way to Kilkenny Castle, another highlight in the town.

Set your GPS to Barntown and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Barntown beckons with new experiences!

Your self-guided tour starts at Irish National Heritage Park, a locally appreciated museum 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.

As you explore more of Waterford City Metropolitan District, 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.

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 Bodega, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Geoff's Cafe Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Gingerman is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, An Uisce Beatha also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Say good night to Waterford City Metropolitan District and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Ireland!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Blarney, Cork, and Carrigtwohill, 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.

When you’ve had your share of Waterford City Metropolitan District, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Blarney. Your travel time is around 1 hour 58 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Blarney Castle & Gardens, a well-known castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Blarney Stone and admire its breathtaking features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cork. This car ride takes around 15 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Cork Opera House, an underrated opera house that draws visitors from near and far.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cork, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Carrigtwohill may take around 21 min. Upon your arrival in Carrigtwohill, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Fota Wildlife Park is a locally renowned wildlife reserve we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Malarkey, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Mad Monk by Quinlans beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Vendricks Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Killarney tonight.

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.

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

On day 10 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 Cahir, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, Bunratty, and Lisdoonvarna. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lisdoonvarna, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Cahir and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 3 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cahir beckons with new experiences!

Take your self-guided tour to Cahir Castle, a frequently visited castle that everyone visiting Cahir should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cahir 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 17 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.

Rock Of Cashel is a well-known castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Spend your afternoon discovering Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, a locally renowned castle known for its historic features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Lisdoonvarna, 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 Lisdoonvarna. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Wild Honey Inn, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible classic menu.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Galway. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Sligo, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Galway.

Begin your journey at Eyre Square and explore the heritage-rich features. Next, make your way to Spanish Arch, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the historical landmark, continue to Galway City Museum, a visually striking museum. Nearby, you will also find Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway. This up-and-coming church is a top place to see in the area.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Sligo. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Bridgefoot House, a top-rated dining destination in Sligo. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider O'Briens Sandwich Café, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Coach Lane Restaurant @ Donaghy's Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Sligo this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Foleys. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Belfry Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook The Snug Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

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