6-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin traveling south to Cork
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-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 Dublin and 2 nights in Cork. 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. 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, Cork, Glanmire, Blarney, Carrigtwohill, Cobh, Cahir, and The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, 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
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Dublin - Arrival day
- More
- Ha'penny Bridge
- More
Say hello to Dublin! 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 Dublin for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Peadar Kearney's Pub, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Lotts Cafe Bar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Merchant's Arch is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dublin.
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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Ireland!
Day 2
- Dublin
- More
Drive 22 km, 1 hour 34 min
- Phoenix Park
- Guinness Storehouse
- St. Patrick's Cathedral Park
- Dublin Castle
- National Botanic Gardens
- More
On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Dublin is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a brewery, a church, a castle, a botanical garden and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the interesting Phoenix Park and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Guinness Storehouse, a standout brewery that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to St Patrick's Cathedral, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally renowned Dublin Castle. When you're finished at the castle, National Botanic Gardens awaits your visit. This botanical garden is a romantic highlight on today's itinerary.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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 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.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Dublin by reserving a table at Bastible. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Patrick Guilbaud, renowned for its delectable modern french dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dublin.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bruxelles. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Light House Cinema, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Bowe's Lounge Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!
Day 3
- Dublin
- Cork
- More
Drive 260 km, 3 hours 33 min
- The Book of Kells Experience
- National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
- St Stephen's Green
- Dublin Zoo
- More
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 Dublin. 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 2 nights.
Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and historic treasures. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Book Of Kells. This captivating museum is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out St Stephen's Green, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Dublin. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Dublin Zoo. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this zoo offers.
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.
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.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Cork by securing a table at Goldie. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, famous for its scrumptious japanese dishes. This Bib Gourmand venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.
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.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Ireland!
Day 4
- Cork
- More
Drive 30 km, 1 hour 14 min
- Blackrock Castle Observatory
- Fitzgerald's Park
- Cork City Gaol
- Blarney Castle & Gardens
- Blarney Stone
- More
Day 4 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Glanmire. You have 1 night left in Cork. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Cork. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Munster Technological University is the perfect place to start. This astronomical observatory is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Cork. Next, head to Fitzgerald's Park, a beloved park, known for its mesmerizing features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Cork City Gaol. This heritage-rich museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Blarney Castle & Gardens and Blarney Stone. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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 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.
Make sure to reserve a table at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, an iconic dining spot in Cork. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Liberty Grill, a popular restaurant in Cork. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Canty's Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Cork. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
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
- Dublin
- More
Drive 300 km, 3 hours 41 min
- Fota Wildlife Park
- Titanic Experience Cobh
- Cahir Castle
- Rock of Cashel
- More
Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Carrigtwohill, Cobh, Cahir, and The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, 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.
Discover a day packed with fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views in Cork. Begin your sightseeing with Fota Wildlife Park. This well-known wildlife reserve is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Titanic Experience Cobh, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Cork, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Cahir Castle. This worthwhile castle is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Rock Of Cashel, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dublin. 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 Dublin. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The Brazen Head, a highly-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bewley's Grafton Street, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Bridge 1859 stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Dame Tavern offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Mary's Bar & Hardware is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Ireland.
Day 6
- Dublin - Departure day
- More
- Molly Malone Statue
- More
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 noteworthy monument before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Ireland and go on a shopping spree in Dublin’s shopping center, the lively Henry Street. 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 Dublin.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at SOLE Seafood & Grill, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kehoes Pub offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Cobblestone.
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!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Ireland
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.