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

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Cork and drive in the direction of Blarney for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Dublin, where you’ll stay for 4 nights.

Make time for Cork Opera House, an up-and-coming opera house that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Fitzgerald's Park, enchanting visitors with its stunning appeal.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Blarney.

Savor the day by heading to Blarney Castle & Gardens, a captivating castle that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Blarney Stone, where you can soak in the historic surroundings.

Set your GPS to Glanmire and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Glanmire beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Munster Technological University. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the astronomical observatory before you continue to your next stop.

In Dublin, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Ireland.

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Dublin by booking a table at Bastible, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Patrick Guilbaud, renowned for its delectable modern french dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Dublin. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

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.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Mulligan's offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, John Kavanagh The Gravediggers is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cassidy's is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland, you’ll go deep into Dublin, where you'll stay for 3 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!

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the captivating Guinness Storehouse and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, St Patrick's Cathedral, a monumental church that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Dublin Castle, one of the city’s most locally renowned spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the notable Molly Malone Statue. When you're finished at the monument, Book Of Kells awaits your visit. This museum is an instagrammable highlight on today's itinerary.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Cork. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Cork 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!

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 Taste Food Company, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Confession Box. 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.

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.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Ireland.

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

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 captivating park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Dublin Zoo, a gorgeous zoo, promising a delightful encounter.

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

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.

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

Dine in style at The Brazen Head, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bewley's Grafton Street boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dublin.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Bridge 1859, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Dame Tavern is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Mary's Bar & Hardware is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Dublin can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Ireland!

Day 5 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!

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.

Make time for St Stephen's Green, a notable park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, enchanting visitors with its photogenic appeal. Continue your exploration at National Gallery Of Ireland. This art gallery is one of the city’s most popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Dublin at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit National Botanic Gardens.

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 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.

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.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar" is an excellent place to start.

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

Day 6 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!

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kilkenny may take around 1 hour 34 min. Upon your arrival in Kilkenny, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Savor the day by heading to Kilkenny Castle, a captivating park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Kilkenny Castle, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings.

The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Dublin behind. This drive usually takes around 50 min. The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Rock Of Cashel is a popular castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cahir. This car ride takes around 17 min.

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

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

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 Cork, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Goldie, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional seafood menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby Bib Gourmand-awardee, Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, known for its delicious japanese cuisine.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Ireland.

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