4-Day Ireland Road Trip from Cork traveling north to Kilkenny

Say hello to Cork! Your exciting road trip through Ireland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Cork for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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.

Make sure to book a table at The Woodford, a popular restaurant in Cork. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Cork at Izz Cafe, 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 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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Shelbourne Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Oval offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

Raise a toast to the start of your 4-day road trip in Ireland!

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Cork, Glanmire, and Blarney. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Kilkenny, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Cork City Gaol, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This prison is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,919 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Fitzgerald's Park. Fitzgerald's Park is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,170 reviews.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Glanmire.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Munster Technological University. This technological university is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,397 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Kilkenny, 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 Kilkenny's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

This popular -awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. 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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Biddy Early´s, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Tynans Bridge House Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Ryans Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 3 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 Kilkenny, The Municipal District of Kildare — Newbridge, and The Municipal District of Castlecomer. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cork, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to The Municipal District of Castlecomer 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. The Municipal District of Castlecomer beckons with new experiences!

Take the opportunity to see Kilkenny Castle. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,458 visitors.

Kilkenny Castle is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This schloss country house museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,743 travelers.

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 Kildare — Newbridge. 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 47 min. Upon reaching The Municipal District of Kildare — Newbridge, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready to see some sights, Irish National Stud & Gardens is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 4,166 visitors.

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 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.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Luigi Malones Cork, a top-rated dining spot in Cork. If you're in the mood for something new, try Costigan's Pub, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Hayfield Manor Hotel. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cork.

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

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.

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.

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

This popular -awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Have a fantastic dining experience at White Rabbit Bar & BBQ, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The SpitJack Cork offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

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!