4-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork traveling east to Waterford City Metropolitan District
Description
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 4-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cork, Blarney, Glanmire, Waterford City Metropolitan District, Kilkenny, The Municipal District of Castlecomer, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, and Cahir.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Ireland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Cork and 1 night in Waterford City Metropolitan District. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Ireland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Cork, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Ireland on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Ireland. Rock Of Cashel and Kilkenny Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cork, Blarney, Glanmire, Waterford City Metropolitan District, Kilkenny, The Municipal District of Castlecomer, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, and Cahir, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Ireland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Ireland.
Throughout your road trip in Ireland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Ireland.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Ireland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Ireland today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1 – Cork - arrival day
- Cork - Arrival day
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- Tramore Valley Park
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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 Tramore Valley Park 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.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Woodford, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Greenes Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Izz Cafe as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cork.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Impala, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Shelbourne Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Oval provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Ireland!
Day 2 – Cork, Blarney, Glanmire, and Waterford City Metropolitan District
- Cork
- Blarney
- Glanmire
- Waterford
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Drive 149 km, 2 hours 47 min
- Fitzgerald's Park
- Cork City Gaol
- Blarney Stone
- Blarney Castle & Gardens
- Blackrock Castle Observatory
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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 Cork, Blarney, and Glanmire. 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.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several a charming, an idyllic, an awe-inspiring, a picture-perfect, and a standout. 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. Fitzgerald's Park is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic park before continuing your journey. Cork City Gaol is your next stop. This beloved museum is one of the best-rated sights in Cork.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Blarney, 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 Cork to Blarney may take around 10 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Blarney, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Make your way to Blarney Stone, an intriguing monument that draws attention for its stunning features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Blarney Castle & Gardens, a romantic castle that stands out in the city.
Glanmire’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Blarney behind. This drive usually takes around 28 min. Glanmire welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Begin your journey at Munster Technological University and explore the eye-catching features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Waterford City Metropolitan District. Waterford City Metropolitan District offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Waterford City Metropolitan District. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Start your culinary exploration in Waterford City Metropolitan District by securing a reservation at Everett's. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bodega, a popular restaurant in Waterford City Metropolitan District. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Geoff's Cafe Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Gingerman provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, An Uisce Beatha offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Say good night to Waterford City Metropolitan District and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Ireland!
Day 3 – Waterford City Metropolitan District, Kilkenny, The Municipal District of Castlecomer, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, Cahir, and Cork
- Waterford
- Kilkenny
- Castlecomer
- Cashel
- Cork
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Drive 235 km, 3 hours 17 min
- Kilkenny Castle
- Kilkenny Castle Park
- Castlecomer Discovery Park
- Rock of Cashel
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Kilkenny, The Municipal District of Castlecomer, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, and Cahir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cork, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Waterford City Metropolitan District, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kilkenny. This drive usually takes around 38 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Begin your journey at Kilkenny Castle and explore the grand features. Next, make your way to Kilkenny Castle, another highlight in the city.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kilkenny, you’ll hit the road in the direction of The Municipal District of Castlecomer. This drive usually takes around 24 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Castlecomer Discovery Park, an intriguing adventure park that draws visitors from near and far.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to The Municipal District of Castlecomer 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 56 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 popular castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Cork, 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 Cork, 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 an extraordinary dining experience at Goldie, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine is one of the best restaurants for japanese cuisine in Cork. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Ireland!
Day 4 – Cork - departure day
- Cork - Departure day
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- Triskel Arts Centre
- Fitzgerald's Park
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Day 4 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.
Make the most of your final day in Ireland by visiting Cork’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Ireland.
Immerse yourself in Cork’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Triskel Arts Centre. This instagrammable performing arts theater is sure to ignite your curiosity.
Before you conclude your road trip in Ireland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cork.
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!
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