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

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip in Ireland will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Ireland, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Cork Opera House is an ideal stop early in the day. This worthwhile opera house is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Blarney Castle & Gardens, which may be one of the most history-steeped places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Cork on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Blarney Stone, a locally appreciated monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Fitzgerald's Park and Munster Technological University.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Ireland as you make your way to Dublin. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

Exploring the food culture in Dublin offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

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.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Mulligan's, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. John Kavanagh The Gravediggers is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Cassidy's is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Dublin!

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Ireland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Dublin. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Dublin. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Dublin!

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

Enjoy all that Guinness Storehouse has to offer. This is an interesting brewery you should not miss. Another must-see is St Patrick's Cathedral, a notable church in Dublin.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Dublin Castle. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Molly Malone Statue, another of the city’s interesting attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Book Of Kells, a photogenic place of interest in the city.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Ireland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Dublin offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Dublin, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to reserve a table at Taste Food Company, an iconic dining spot in Dublin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, a popular restaurant in Dublin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Confession Box, a hidden gem nestled in Dublin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Dublin.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bruxelles stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Light House Cinema offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bowe's Lounge Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Dublin as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Ireland!

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland, you’ll go deep into Dublin, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Dublin, and meet locals along the way!

O'Connell Street is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic street in Dublin, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city. Be sure to also visit Temple Bar, a neighborhood that showcases another side of Dublin.

Whatever your travel style is, Phoenix Park is an essential stop in Dublin. This well-known park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Dublin Zoo, a breathtaking zoo, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Ha'penny Bridge, an interesting monument.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Ireland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Ireland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Ireland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Dublin.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Brazen Head, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bewley's Grafton Street is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dublin tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Dublin and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Continue your lively evening at The Bridge 1859, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Dame Tavern is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Mary's Bar & Hardware ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Ireland!

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Grafton Street. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the well-known St Stephen's Green and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, a heritage-rich museum that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to National Gallery Of Ireland, one of the city’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the captivating National Botanic Gardens.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Dublin. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Dublin that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Ireland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Dublin to find the best options for you!

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Ireland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Dublin, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Dublin. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", known for its inviting atmosphere.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Ireland!

Day 6 of your self-drive tour in Ireland offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Kilkenny and end it in Cork. You’ll stay in Cork for 1 night. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Ireland.

Your adventure in Dublin is only getting started when you visit Kilkenny Castle, a notable local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Kilkenny Castle. This well-known castle is known for its history-steeped appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Dublin's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Rock Of Cashel. This picture-perfect castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Cahir Castle is also worth visiting.

You'll be staying in Cork on this laid-back road trip through Ireland. You'll stay here for 1 night.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Cork has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Start your culinary exploration in Cork by securing a reservation at Goldie. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, celebrated for its delectable japanese menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Cork’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Ireland.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Ireland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Ireland tomorrow with new energy.