6-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork traveling east to Dublin

On day 2 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 Cork, Blarney, and Glanmire. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dublin, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Cork, including an opera house and a park. Start your day with a visit to Cork Opera House. This increasingly popular opera house is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Fitzgerald's Park, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

Blarney welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Make your way to Blarney Stone, a worthwhile monument that draws attention for its standout features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Blarney Castle & Gardens, an enchanting castle that stands out in the city.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cork and set your GPS to Glanmire. 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 19 min. Upon reaching Glanmire, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Head to Munster Technological University, a worthwhile astronomical observatory in Glanmire. Explore its standout features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Bastible, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Patrick Guilbaud, known for its delicious modern french cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Dublin is Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious modern menu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Mulligan's. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to John Kavanagh The Gravediggers, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Cassidy's provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip in Ireland. With 2 nights left in Dublin, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Today’s route brings an awe-inspiring, a visually striking, a heritage-rich, an inviting, and a grand. The first attraction of today is St Patrick's Cathedral. This interesting church is a culturally significant place to see in Dublin. Continue your discovery at Dublin Castle, a culturally significant castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Dublin, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology. This popular museum offers a heritage-rich encounter with Dublin. National Gallery Of Ireland is the last of our recommendations for today. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Dublin.

When you’ve had your share of Dublin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Enniskerry. Your travel time is around 49 min.

Make your way to Powerscourt House & Gardens, a locally appreciated botanical garden that draws attention for its romantic features.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Taste Food Company, a popular restaurant in Dublin. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dublin at Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, 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 Confession Box. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Dublin tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bruxelles, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Light House Cinema provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bowe's Lounge Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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.

Day 4 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.

Set out on a day brimming with a charming, a scenic, a gorgeous, an eye-catching, and a heritage-rich. Start at the popular St Stephen's Green, a serene park in Dublin. Next, go to Guinness Storehouse.

After visiting St Stephen's Green and Guinness Storehouse, take time to explore Dublin's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to National Botanic Gardens. This serene botanical garden offers a unique experience. Dublin Zoo is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Phoenix Park, one of the most romantic places to visit in Dublin.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Ireland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities 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.

Dine in style at The Brazen Head, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bewley's Grafton Street boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dublin.

Continue your lively evening at The Bridge 1859, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Dame Tavern is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Mary's Bar & Hardware ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Dublin and Kilkenny. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cork, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Dublin, including a monument and a museum. Start your adventure at Ha'penny Bridge. This notable monument is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Molly Malone Statue located in Dublin for an enchanting atmosphere.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Book Of Kells. Its photogenic features will captivate you.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kilkenny. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 38 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kilkenny Castle is a notable park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour to Kilkenny Castle, a history-steeped castle that’s well-regarded in the area.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Cork. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Goldie in Cork by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Goldie offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing japanese cuisine. This popular Bib Gourmand-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Ireland!