13-Day Ireland Road Trip from Dublin to Kilkenny, Cork, Killarney, Limerick, and Galway

Your road trip adventure in Ireland begins as soon as you reach Dublin and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Dublin for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Dublin 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 Molly Malone Statue or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Dublin. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Ireland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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.

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 savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Light House Cinema, where the evening is just getting started.

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

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

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Iveagh Gardens. This extraordinary urban park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,956 visitors.

Next, make your way to Guinness Storehouse. This top attraction is a tourist attraction with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,154 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Phoenix Park. This park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 37,298 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Dublin Zoo. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,663 travelers. Around 1,105,005 people come to experience this place of interest every year.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at National Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,718 travelers.

You can learn more about Dublin today by going on a tour. Dublin offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Chapter One Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Bank on College Green? 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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at St Patrick's Cathedral, a remarkable anglican or episcopal cathedral where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 21,169 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Dublin Castle. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 31,463 travelers.

St Stephen's Green is another must-visit attraction. This renowned park offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,521 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology. This well-loved national museum boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 12,321 reviews. In a single year, approximately 370,965 visitors add this sightseeing spot to their travel itineraries.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Book of Kells awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a codex, this is a top pick rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,299 previous visitors.

Your discoveries in Dublin do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Dublin on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're eager to try something different, consider Mr Fox, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Porterhouse Temple Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Dublin and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Wicklow, The Municipal District of Bray, Enniskerry, and Kilkenny. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Kilkenny, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

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

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Wicklow Mountains National Park. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,575 visitors.

Upon your arrival in The Municipal District of Bray, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Powerscourt Waterfall. This waterfall is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in The Municipal District of Bray, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,309 visitors.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Billy Byrnes Gastro Bar & Venue, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Langtons Hotel Kilkenny offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Italian Connection is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Kilkenny.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Biddy Early´s, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Tynans Bridge House Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Ryans Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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 exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, Cahir, Carrigtwohill, and Cobh. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cork, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kilkenny 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 52 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.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Rock of Cashel. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,510 reviews.

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.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Cahir Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,042 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Cork, 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 Cork.

Discover the culinary delights of Cork by securing a reservation at Goldie. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, renowned for its delicious japanese dishes. This esteemed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Also, consider Liberty Grill. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cork tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Shelbourne Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Oval offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cork.

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 6 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Cork and Blarney, 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.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Cork Opera House. Previous visitors have rated this opera house an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,841 reviews.

Fitzgerald's Park is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,170 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Cork City Gaol. This prison is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,919 reviews.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Blarney Castle & Gardens. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,764 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Blarney Stone. This stone has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,710 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Killarney, 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 Killarney's best restaurants.

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.

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

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure 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 1 vibrant destinations - Killarney. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Limerick. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ross Castle. This extraordinary castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,141 visitors.

Next, make your way to Muckross Abbey. This top attraction is an abbey with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,866 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Limerick. Limerick 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Limerick. 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 a delicious meal at Collins Bar Dooradoyle, a highly-rated dining destination in Limerick. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bobby Byrne's, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Old Quarter GastroPub. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Limerick this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting South's Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Glen Tavern is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Red Hen also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

On day 8 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 Limerick and Bunratty. In the evening, you’ll end up in Galway, where you will stay for 4 nights.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Limerick City Gallery of Art. This art museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 420 reviews.

Continue your journey at King John's Castle. This castle is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,634 travelers from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bunratty. This car ride takes around 17 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,442 reviews.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at The Front Door Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Galway. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider O'Connell's Bar Galway, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zappis Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Galway this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Tigh Neachtain is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Crane Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is O'Connor's Famous Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Galway has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Galway by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

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 sightseeing destination 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 Eyre Square. This square has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,114 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Great Escape Rooms. A trip to this popular sightseeing destination is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.8 out of 5-star rating as given by 1,162 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway. This catholic cathedral enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,556 local and international travelers.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Galway, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Galway below.

As you explore more of Galway, 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.

Dine in style at A Púcán, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Skeff Bar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kai Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Galway.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Caribou, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Taaffes Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Monroe's Tavern likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Wake up to day 10 of your extraordinary road trip in Ireland. With 2 nights left in Galway, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Strokestown. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 34 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Take the opportunity to see Strokestown Park House & Gardens. This attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 608 visitors.

The National Famine Museum, Strokestown Park is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This museum has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 589 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Roscommon Municipal District. This car ride takes around 18 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Roscommon Castle. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 948 reviews.

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

As you explore more of Galway, 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 The Dáil Bar Galway, a popular restaurant in Galway. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Galway at Scotty's Burgers & Wings, Galway, Ireland. , 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 Quays Bar and Restaurant. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Galway tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Tigh Chóilí, known for its lively atmosphere.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

Day 11 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Galway. You have 1 night left in Galway. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Galway has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Galway offers and add your favorites to your Ireland travel package 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at 1520 Bar, 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 Esquires - The Organic Coffee Co (Eyre Square), 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 Hooked, a hidden gem nestled in Galway. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Kinvarra and Gort. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dublin, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Galway, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kinvarra may take around 32 min. Upon your arrival in Kinvarra, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Dunguaire Castle. This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Kinvarra, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,855 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Kinvarra, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gort. Your travel time is around 15 min.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Coole Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,367 reviews.

Next up is Coole Park Nature Reserve. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 562 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dublin, 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 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 The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try PHX Bistro? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Vintage Kitchen as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.

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 Dublin 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 Dublin’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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Ha'penny Bridge, a remarkable footbridge where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,278 reviews.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Temple Bar Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Murray’s Pub offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Church Café, Late Bar & Restaurant.

You’ll then say farewell to Dublin. 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!