7-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork to Killarney
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Experience the freedom of the open road in Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 7-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cork, Blarney, Killarney, Kinsale, Dingle, Murreagh, Bunratty, and Limerick.
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 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 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. Cliffs Of Moher and Bunratty Castle & Folk Park are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Blarney Castle & Gardens, learn more about the unique Killarney National Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Muckross House.
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, 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!
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Day 1
- Cork - Arrival day
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- St Patrick's Bridge
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Your road trip adventure in Ireland begins as soon as you reach Cork and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Cork for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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.
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.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Impala, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Shelbourne Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Oval likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Ireland!
Day 2
- Cork
- Killarney
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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
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Cork and Blarney. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Killarney, which will be your home away from home for 4 nights.
Today’s itinerary in Cork covers several incredible sights, including a church, a museum, a park, a monument, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral. This locally appreciated church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the respected wonders of Cork Public Museum, a must-see museum in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Fitzgerald's Park. This locally appreciated park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Cork City Gaol, where you can take in history-steeped features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Blarney Stone and Blarney Castle & Gardens. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of 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.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Killarney's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Malarkey, a popular restaurant in Killarney. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Killarney at The Mad Monk by Quinlans, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Vendricks Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Killarney tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at John M. Reidy, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Courtney's Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Killarney. Jimmy Brien's is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Ireland!
Day 3
- Killarney
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Drive 219 km, 3 hours 51 min
- Charles Fort
- St Mary's Cathedral
- Wishing Bridge
- Gap of Dunloe
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Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Killarney for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Immerse yourself in Killarney’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Charles Fort. This respected castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of St Mary's Cathedral, Killarney, a must-visit church in the town.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Wishing Bridge, an underrated point of interest. For a change of scene, check out Gap Of Dunloe, known for its mesmerizing features.
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.
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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Killarney Royal Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Curious Cat Café is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Killarney.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub, known for its inviting atmosphere.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Ireland!
Day 4
- Killarney
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Drive 35 km, 1 hour 52 min
- Ross Castle
- Muckross Abbey
- Muckross House
- Killarney National Park
- Torc Mountain
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On day 4 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Killarney. You’ll stay in Killarney for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Killarney on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Ross Castle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this breathtaking castle before continuing your journey. Muckross Abbey is your next stop. This up-and-coming monument is one of the best-rated sights in Killarney.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Muckross House. This picture-perfect museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Killarney National Park and Torc Mountain.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Killarney's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Speakeasy Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Shire Bar & Cafe is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Caragh Restaurant & Lounge Bar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Killarney tonight.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Ireland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Killarney
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Drive 238 km, 4 hours 10 min
- Conor Pass waterfall
- Dingle Lighthouse (Teach Solais an Daingin)
- Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium
- Cill Maoilchéadair
- Conor Pass
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Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Ireland. With 1 night left in Killarney, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!
Today’s agenda in Killarney includes a waterfall, a beach, a lighthouse, an aquarium, a church, a cliff and much more! Conor Pass Waterfall is must-visit waterfall and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Inch Beach, Co. Kerry, a frequently visited beach, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Dingle Lighthouse (teach Solais A Daingin), a romantic lighthouse, also available for your discovery today.
Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Killarney. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the curiosity-inducing Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium. If you’re looking for more, Cill Maoilchéadair is also a beloved attraction that is worthwhile a visit. Lastly, don’t miss Conor Pass, a place of romantic interest in the region.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Killarney and your accommodation.
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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at O'Connors Traditional Pub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Kitty O’Se’s Seafood and Grill Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at O'Donoghue Public House. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Killarney tonight.
Head back to your accommodation in Killarney and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland!
Day 6
- Killarney
- Cork
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Drive 385 km, 5 hours 53 min
- Poulnabrone dolmen
- Cliffs of Moher
- Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
- Treaty Stone
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On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Bunratty and Limerick. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cork, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Poulnabrone Dolmen. This often recommended archeological site is a historic place to see in Killarney. Continue your discovery at Cliffs Of Moher, an eye-catching cliff with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Killarney, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. This locally renowned castle offers a historic encounter with Killarney. Next, make your way to Treaty Stone 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 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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cork. 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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, a top-rated dining destination in Cork. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Liberty Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Canty's Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cork this evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Ireland.
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 worthwhile monument is a popular place to see in the city.
Make the most of your final day in Ireland by visiting Cork’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Douglas Farmers' Market. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience 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.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ziggys Bar offers an enticing alternative with its varied 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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