5-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork to Galway
Description
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Ireland. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Ireland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Cork and 1 night in Galway. 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. Cliffs Of Moher and Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Eyre Square, learn more about the unique Cliffs Of Moher, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Fitzgerald's Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cork, Kinsale, Galway, and Clifden, 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
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- Shandon
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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 2 nights 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 Shandon, a must-see neighborhood, and taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Cork. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Ireland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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.
Dine in style at The Woodford, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Greenes Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Izz Cafe. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cork.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Impala, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Shelbourne Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Oval offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Ireland!
Day 2
- Cork
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Drive 70 km, 1 hour 55 min
- Fitzgerald's Park
- Cork Opera House
- Elizabeth Fort
- Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral
- Charles Fort
- Ringfinnan Garden of Remembrance
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Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Ireland. With 1 night left in Cork, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cork today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is Fitzgerald's Park. This eye-catching park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Cork Opera House and learn what makes this picture-perfect opera house unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Elizabeth Fort. After exploring the castle, head to Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral. This increasingly popular church is a highlight in Cork. As your day continues, stop by Charles Fort, known for its breathtaking features. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the up-and-coming Ringfinnan Garden Of Remembrance. Enjoy exploring this incredible sculpture garden at your own pace.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Cork.
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 a delicious dinner at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Liberty Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Canty's Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, 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!
Day 3
- Cork
- Galway
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Drive 278 km, 4 hours 44 min
- Aillwee Cave
- Cliffs of Moher
- Cliffs of Moher
- Eyre Square
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 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 Galway, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Cork allows for both. Start by heading to Aillwee Cave. This curiosity-inducing cave provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Cliffs Of Moher, an eye-catching cliff, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Cliffs Of Moher, a curiosity-inducing cliff. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the well-known Eyre Square.
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.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Front Door Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Busker Brownes. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Galway.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Dew Drop Inn, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Freeney's Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Tigh Neachtain offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Ireland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 4
- Galway
- Cork
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Drive 386 km, 5 hours 48 min
- Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway
- Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
- Derrigimlagh Discovery Point
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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 vibrant destinations - Galway and Clifden. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cork. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Galway, including a church, a monastery, and a historical landmark. Start your day at Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway. This historic church is a beloved place to see in Galway. Then, wander over to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden. If visually striking sites excite you, this monastery will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point @derrigimlagh. This picture-perfect historical landmark is a favorite among visitors.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cork. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cork's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Savor the flavors at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Ziggys Bar beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Luigi Malones Cork. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cork tonight.
Head back to your accommodation in Cork and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland!
Day 5
- Cork - Departure day
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- Cork City Gaol
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Day 5 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.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Cork City Gaol, a visually striking museum before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Ireland and go on a shopping spree in Cork’s shopping center, the lively Douglas Farmers' Market. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Ireland.
Before you conclude your road trip in Ireland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cork.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Tony's Bistro, another premier location with a delectable 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!
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