5-Day Ireland Road Trip from Dublin traveling south to Kilkenny

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 5-day road trip through Ireland. Explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Dublin, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, Cahir, Kilkenny, and The Municipal District of Castlecomer. 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 Dublin, and 1 night in Kilkenny. 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 Dublin, 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. Phoenix Park and St Stephen's Green are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dublin, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, Cahir, Kilkenny, and The Municipal District of Castlecomer, 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!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Dublin - arrival day

  • Dublin - Arrival day
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  • Ha'penny Bridge
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Welcome to Dublin, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Ireland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Dublin's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 Ha'penny Bridge or 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 Dublin. 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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Peadar Kearney's Pub, a highly-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Lotts Cafe Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Merchant's Arch. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

Keep the evening going at Mulligan's, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to John Kavanagh The Gravediggers, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Cassidy's, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Ireland!

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Day 2

Day 2 – Dublin

  • Dublin
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Drive 23 km, 1 hour 32 min

  • Phoenix Park
  • Dublin Zoo
  • Guinness Storehouse
  • Dublin Castle
  • National Botanic Gardens
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Day 2 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Dublin. You have 1 night left in Dublin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Phoenix Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 37,460 reviews.

Next up is Dublin Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,781 visitors. As one of the top places to visit in the city, Dublin Zoo welcomes 1,105,005 visitors annually.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Guinness Storehouse. This tourist attraction has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 19,378 reviews.

Dublin Castle is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 31,657 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to National Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,941 reviews.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Dublin by booking a table at Bastible, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Dublin, Patrick Guilbaud shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern french cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Dublin. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bruxelles, known for its lively atmosphere. Light House Cinema is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bowe's Lounge Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Dublin, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, Cahir, and Kilkenny

  • Kilkenny
  • Cashel
  • Cahir
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Drive 266 km, 3 hours 28 min

  • Rock of Cashel
  • Brú Ború Heritage Centre
  • Cashel Folk Village
  • Cahir Castle
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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 The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, and Cahir. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kilkenny, where you will stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Dublin, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel may take around 1 hour 53 min. Upon your arrival in The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Rock of Cashel one of your first sightseeing stops in The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,650 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Brú Ború Heritage Centre 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 4.7 out of 5 stars from 189 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Cashel Folk Village. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 136 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cahir. This drive usually takes around 16 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cahir Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,177 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Kilkenny, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Billy Byrnes Gastro Bar & Venue, a top-rated dining spot in Kilkenny. If you're in the mood for something new, try Langtons Hotel Kilkenny, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Sullivan's Taproom. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Kilkenny.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Dylan Whisky Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Biddy Early´s, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Tynans Bridge House Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Kilkenny, The Municipal District of Castlecomer, and Dublin

  • Dublin
  • Kilkenny
  • Castlecomer
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Drive 128 km, 2 hours 23 min

  • Kilkenny Castle Park
  • Kilkenny Castle
  • Cathedral Church of St Canice & Round Tower
  • Castlecomer Discovery Park
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Kilkenny, and The Municipal District of Castlecomer, 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 Dublin. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Kilkenny Castle. This schloss country house museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,966 visitors.

When you’re finished at Kilkenny Castle, head to Kilkenny Castle. This one-of-a-kind schloss country house museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,597 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit St Canice's Cathedral. This church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,093 visitors.

The Municipal District of Castlecomer’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kilkenny behind. This drive usually takes around 21 min. The Municipal District of Castlecomer welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Castlecomer Discovery Park. Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,471 reviews.

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 Dublin. Dublin 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.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Brazen Head, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bewley's Grafton Street is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dublin tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Bridge 1859, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Dame Tavern provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Mary's Bar & Hardware offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Dublin - departure day

  • Dublin - Departure day
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  • St Stephen's Green
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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 Dublin before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like St Stephen's Green. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 29,869 visitors.

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at SOLE Seafood & Grill, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kehoes Pub is another top choice with a popular menu.

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!

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