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

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of 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!

Get ready for an exciting day in Cork. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an opera house, a castle, a monument, a park, an astronomical observatory and much more! Begin your adventure at Cork Opera House. This is an intriguing opera house you should not miss. Another must-see is Blarney Castle & Gardens, a popular castle in Cork.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Blarney Stone. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Fitzgerald's Park, another of the city’s curiosity-inducing attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Munster Technological University, a breathtaking place of interest in the city.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Dublin in this laid-back road trip in Ireland. You'll stay here for 4 nights.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Dublin by securing a table at Bastible. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Patrick Guilbaud, famous for its scrumptious modern french dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Dublin. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Mulligan's stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, John Kavanagh The Gravediggers offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Cassidy's 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 through Ireland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Ireland!

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!

Today’s itinerary in Dublin covers several incredible sights, including a brewery, a church, a castle, a monument, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Guinness Storehouse. This well-known brewery is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders of St Patrick's Cathedral, a must-see church 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 Dublin Castle. This locally renowned castle offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Molly Malone Statue, where you can take in instagrammable features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Book Of Kells. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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!

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Taste Food Company, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Confession Box as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Dublin.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bruxelles, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Light House Cinema provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Bowe's Lounge Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure 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 a fantastic place you can explore today in Dublin. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Dublin-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Temple Bar, a neighborhood offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Immerse yourself in Dublin’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Phoenix Park. This peaceful park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Dublin Zoo, a must-visit zoo in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Ha'penny Bridge, an interesting monument.

Ireland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Ireland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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 dining experience at The Brazen Head, a popular restaurant in Dublin. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dublin at Bewley's Grafton Street, 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 The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Dublin tonight.

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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Bridge 1859, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Dame Tavern, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Mary's Bar & Hardware likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Ireland.

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

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Grafton Street, a street that captures the true essence of Dublin. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Get ready for an exciting day in Dublin. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a museum, an art gallery, a botanical garden and much more! Begin your adventure at St Stephen's Green. This is a well-known park you should not miss. Another must-see is National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, an interesting museum in Dublin.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to National Gallery Of Ireland. From there, take a leisurely stroll to National Botanic Gardens, another of the city’s interesting attractions.

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.

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.

Savor the flavors at SOLE Seafood & Grill, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kehoes Pub beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Cobblestone. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dublin tonight.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar" offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Ireland!

Day 6 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Ireland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Kilkenny. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Cork, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Dublin. Begin your sightseeing with Kilkenny Castle. This well-known park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Kilkenny Castle, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Dublin, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Rock Of Cashel. This locally renowned castle is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Cahir Castle, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

In the city of Cork, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Ireland.

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 Cork.

Begin 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.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Cork and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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