6-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin to Kilkenny and surrounding area

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photo of view of Dublin, Ireland. Night view of famous illuminated Ha Penny Bridge in Dublin, Ireland at sunset,Dublin Ireland.
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Explore the best of Ireland on a remarkable 6-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Dublin, Malahide, The Municipal District of Trim, Kilkenny, and Enniskerry.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Ireland. You will spend 4 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 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. Marvel at the remarkable Dublin Castle, learn more about the unique Dublin Zoo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of St Patrick's Cathedral.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dublin, Malahide, The Municipal District of Trim, Kilkenny, and Enniskerry, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dublin - Arrival day
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  • Ha'penny Bridge
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Your road trip adventure in Ireland begins as soon as you reach Dublin and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 3 nights and explore what to see in Dublin, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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 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 Dublin. 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 Dublin, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Peadar Kearney's Pub, a top-rated dining spot in Dublin. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Lotts Cafe Bar, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Merchant's Arch. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dublin.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Mulligan's offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, John Kavanagh The Gravediggers is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cassidy's is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Ireland!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • 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 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Phoenix Park is must-visit park and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Dublin Zoo, an interesting zoo, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Guinness Storehouse, a breathtaking brewery, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Dublin. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the popular Dublin Castle. If you’re looking for more, National Botanic Gardens is also a notable attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Ireland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Dublin is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Dublin.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Bastible, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Patrick Guilbaud is one of the best restaurants for modern french cuisine in Dublin. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Keep the evening going at Bruxelles, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Light House Cinema, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bowe's Lounge Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Ireland.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Dublin
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Drive 5 km, 55 min

  • The Book of Kells Experience
  • National Gallery of Ireland
  • National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
  • St Stephen's Green
  • St. Patrick's Cathedral Park
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On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 1 night.

Dublin is brimming with adventures.

Experience Book Of Kells, a well-known museum in the city. Then, head to National Gallery Of Ireland and soak in the ambiance of this photogenic art gallery.

There are many interesting places to see in Dublin, and when you are ready for more, go to National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology. This is one of the city’s most interesting photogenic spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the locally renowned St Stephen's Green. Not far away, you'll also find St Patrick's Cathedral. This church is a historic highlight in Dublin.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Ireland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Brazen Head, a top-rated dining spot in Dublin. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bewley's Grafton Street, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dublin.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Bridge 1859. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Dame Tavern offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Mary's Bar & Hardware, another top-rated bar in the area.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Dublin
  • Kilkenny
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Drive 206 km, 2 hours 56 min

  • Malahide Castle & Gardens
  • Trim Castle
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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 places, which are Malahide and The Municipal District of Trim. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kilkenny, where will spend 1 night.

Enjoy all that Malahide Castle & Gardens has to offer. This is a popular castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Trim Castle, a beloved castle in Dublin.

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.

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

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Campagne, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, experience a taste of Kilkenny at Langtons Hotel Kilkenny, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Dylan Whisky Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Biddy Early´s. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Tynans Bridge House Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Head back to your accommodation in Kilkenny and get some rest to prepare for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland.

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Kilkenny
  • Dublin
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Drive 167 km, 3 hours 10 min

  • Kilkenny Castle
  • Kilkenny Castle Park
  • Wicklow Mountains National Park
  • Powerscourt Waterfall
  • Powerscourt House & Gardens
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Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Ireland includes 4 stops and features some of the highlights of Kilkenny, Wicklow, The Municipal District of Bray, and Enniskerry. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dublin, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make time for Kilkenny Castle, a well-known castle that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Kilkenny Castle, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Wicklow Mountains National Park. This national park is one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Kilkenny at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Powerscourt Waterfall. After exploring the waterfall, head to the worthwhile Powerscourt House & Gardens.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Dublin. Dublin offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at SOLE Seafood & Grill, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Kehoes Pub, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Cobblestone. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar" is an excellent place to start.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Dublin - Departure day
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  • Molly Malone Statue
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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 Dublin 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 Molly Malone Statue, a heritage-rich monument before you head out.

For a last-minute shopping spree in Dublin, Temple Bar is nearby. Enjoy a variety of retail stores, dining options, and essential services in one convenient location.

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

If you're eager to try something different, consider Chapter One Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing 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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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