6-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork traveling west to Killarney
Description
Included
Description
Explore the best of Ireland on a 6-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Cork, Blarney, Killarney, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Dingle, Murreagh, Kenmare, and Ballylickey. This road trip itinerary in Ireland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
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 3 nights in Killarney. 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. Blarney Castle & Gardens and Muckross House are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Ross Castle, learn more about the unique Torc Mountain, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Fitzgerald's Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cork, Blarney, Killarney, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Dingle, Murreagh, Kenmare, and Ballylickey, 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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- St Patrick's Bridge
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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 St Patrick's Bridge, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Cork. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Ireland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at The Woodford, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Greenes Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Izz Cafe is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option 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 6-day road trip in Ireland!
Day 2
- Cork
- Killarney
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Drive 120 km, 2 hours 52 min
- Blarney Stone
- Blarney Castle & Gardens
- Ross Castle
- Muckross House
- Torc Mountain
- St Mary's Cathedral
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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 Blarney and Killarney. In the evening, you’ll end up in Killarney, where you will stay for 3 nights.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cork, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at Blarney Stone, a worthwhile monument in the town. Then, head to Blarney Castle & Gardens and soak in the ambiance of this history-steeped castle.
There are many interesting places to see in Cork, and when you are ready for more, go to Ross Castle. This is one of the town’s most locally appreciated breathtaking spots of interest. After exploring the castle, visit the up-and-coming Muckross House. Not far away, you'll also find Torc Mountain. This waterfall is an instagrammable highlight in Cork. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to St Mary's Cathedral, Killarney, a curiosity-inducing church in the town.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Killarney. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Killarney. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Malarkey, an iconic dining spot in Killarney. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Mad Monk by Quinlans, a popular restaurant in Killarney. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Vendricks Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Killarney. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at John M. Reidy, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Courtney's Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Jimmy Brien's. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Ireland!
Day 3
- Killarney
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Drive 206 km, 3 hours 46 min
- The Kerry Creamery Experience
- Cahergall Stone Fort
- The Old Abbey of the Holy Cross
- Waterville Beach
- Valentia Island Lighthouse
- Kerry Cliffs (Aillte Chiarraí)
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Greet day 3 of your road trip in Ireland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Killarney for your remaining 2 nights in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Killarney, Cahersiveen, Waterville, and Kenmare.
Killarney is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at The Kerry Creamery Experience, a frequently visited cafe that is worthwhile a visit in the region. Nearby, you’ll find Cahergal Stone Fort, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at The Old Abbey Of The Holy Cross. This monument is one of the region’s most curiosity-inducing spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Killarney at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Waterville Beach. After exploring the beach, head to the worthwhile Cromwell Point Lighthouse. Lastly, wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Kerry Cliffs (aillte Chiarraí), a place of eye-catching interest in Killarney.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Killarney and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Killarney's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Killarney Royal Hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Killarney. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Curious Cat Café. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Killarney.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Ireland.
Day 4
- Killarney
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Drive 227 km, 4 hours 11 min
- Dingle Distillery
- Cill Maoilchéadair
- Coumeenoole
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Killarney, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Dingle Distillery. This increasingly popular distillery is an eye-catching place to see in Killarney. Continue your discovery at Cill Maoilchéadair, a historic church with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Killarney, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Inch Beach, Co. Kerry. This curiosity-inducing beach offers an eye-catching encounter with Killarney. Next, make your way to Coumeenoole to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Killarney.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Killarney.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Killarney. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Speakeasy Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Shire Bar & Cafe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Caragh Restaurant & Lounge Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Killarney.
Head back to your accommodation in Killarney and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland!
Day 5
- Killarney
- Cork
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Drive 297 km, 5 hours 21 min
- Cromwell's Bridge
- Holy Cross Catholic Church, Kenmare
- Reenagross Woodland Park Kenmare
- The Ewe Experience
- Staigue Stone Fort
- Snave Pier, Ballylickey (Cé Snave)
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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 Kenmare and Ballylickey. 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.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Killarney. Begin your sightseeing with Cromwell's Bridge. This beloved historical landmark is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Holy Cross Catholic Church, Kenmare, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Killarney, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Reenagross Woodland Park Kenmare. This often recommended park is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find The Ewe Experience, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Staigue Stone Fort is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers. Conclude your day at Snave Pier, Ballylickey (cé Snave) and uncover why it's recognized as one of the town's most beloved attractions.
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.
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 South County Bar & Café, Douglas, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Liberty Grill beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Canty's Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cork tonight.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Ireland!
Day 6
- Cork - Departure day
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- Fitzgerald's Park
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Day 6 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, begin at Fitzgerald's Park. This intriguing park is a popular place to see in the city.
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 eager to try something different, consider Ziggys Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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