7-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork to Killarney

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photo of view of Row home and cathedral in Cobh, Ireland.
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Explore the best of Ireland on a remarkable 7-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Cork, Blarney, Killarney, Kinsale, Dingle, Murreagh, Bunratty, and Limerick.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Ireland. You will spend 2 nights in Cork and 4 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 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. Cliffs Of Moher and Bunratty Castle & Folk Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cork, Blarney, Killarney, Kinsale, Dingle, Murreagh, Bunratty, and Limerick, 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
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Day1

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 discovering what to see in Cork 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. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Cork. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Ireland. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Woodford, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Greenes Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Izz Cafe as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cork.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Impala, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Shelbourne Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, The Oval offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Ireland!

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Day2

Day 2

  • Cork
  • Blarney
  • Killarney
  • More

Drive 86 km, 2 hours 27 min

  • Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral
  • Cork Public Museum
  • Fitzgerald's Park
  • Cork City Gaol
  • Blarney Stone
  • Blarney Castle & Gardens
  • More

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Cork and Blarney. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Killarney, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the underrated Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Cork Public Museum, a heritage-rich museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Fitzgerald's Park, one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the beloved Cork City Gaol.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cork and set your GPS to Blarney. 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 10 min. Upon reaching Blarney, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Blarney Stone. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the monument before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Blarney Castle & Gardens. This notable castle is a traveler-favorite in the city.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Malarkey, a top-rated dining destination in Killarney. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Mad Monk by Quinlans, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vendricks Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Killarney this evening.

Continue your lively evening at John M. Reidy, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Courtney's Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Jimmy Brien's ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Killarney
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Drive 219 km, 3 hours 51 min

  • St Mary's Cathedral
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Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Kinsale has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in the town and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Kinsale.

Whether you decide to explore Kinsale on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

Visiting St Mary's Cathedral, Killarney is always a good idea. This often recommended church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Killarney Royal Hotel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Curious Cat Café as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Killarney.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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

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Day4

Day 4

  • Killarney
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Drive 35 km, 1 hour 52 min

  • Ross Castle
  • Muckross Abbey
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Killarney. You’ll stay in Killarney for 2 nights.

Start your day at Ross Castle. This picture-perfect castle is a frequently visited place to see in Killarney. Then, wander over to Muckross Abbey. If picture-perfect sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley.

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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Killarney's best restaurants.

Dine in style at Speakeasy Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Shire Bar & Cafe boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Caragh Restaurant & Lounge Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Killarney.

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

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Day5

Day 5

  • Killarney
  • Dingle
  • Murreagh
  • More

Drive 238 km, 4 hours 10 min

  • Conor Pass waterfall
  • Dingle Lighthouse (Teach Solais an Daingin)
  • Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium
  • Cill Maoilchéadair
  • Conor Pass
  • More

Wake up to day 5 of your road trip in Ireland. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Kenmare, Dingle, and Murreagh. With 1 night to stay in Killarney, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Killarney, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kenmare. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 6 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Conor Pass Waterfall, an increasingly popular waterfall known for its eye-catching features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Conor Pass, a curiosity-inducing cliff.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Murreagh may take around 9 min. Upon your arrival in Murreagh, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Spend your afternoon discovering Dingle Lighthouse (teach Solais A Daingin), an up-and-coming lighthouse known for its history-steeped features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, a worthwhile aquarium.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Murreagh. This car ride takes around 9 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the region's best attractions, visit Cill Maoilchéadair, a frequently visited church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Killarney and your accommodation.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at O'Connors Traditional Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kitty O’Se’s Seafood and Grill Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss O'Donoghue Public House. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Killarney.

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

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Day6

Day 6

  • Killarney
  • Bunratty
  • Limerick
  • Cork
  • More

Drive 385 km, 5 hours 53 min

  • Poulnabrone dolmen
  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
  • Treaty Stone
  • More

Your itinerary for day 6 of your road trip in Ireland includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Bunratty and Limerick. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cork, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Poulnabrone Dolmen, a locally appreciated archeological site in Bunratty. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Cliffs Of Moher. This well-known cliff is a top recommendation in the area.

Set your GPS to Limerick and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 16 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Limerick beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, a locally renowned castle that everyone visiting Bunratty should see.

Limerick’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bunratty behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Limerick welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Spend your afternoon discovering Treaty Stone, a locally appreciated monument known for its photogenic features.

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.

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.

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.

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

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Day7

Day 7

  • Cork - Departure day
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  • National Monument - Cork
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Day 7 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 National Monument. This beloved monument is a hotspot among locals.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Cork’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

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

Dine in style at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Ziggys Bar boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

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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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.

We guarantee

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

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