7-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork traveling east to Galway and Dublin

On day 2 of your road trip in Ireland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Cork and Blarney. In the evening, you’ll end up in Galway, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Cork covers several incredible sights, including an opera house, a park, a museum, a castle, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Cork Opera House. This curiosity-inducing opera house is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Fitzgerald's Park, a must-see park 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 Cork City Gaol. This beloved museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Blarney Castle & Gardens, where you can take in romantic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Blarney Stone. 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 Galway. Galway offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Galway, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Have a memorable dining experience in Galway by booking a table at Éan, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Galway, Aniar shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern and irish cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.

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

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Galway and The Municipal District of Trim. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dublin, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Galway. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Eyre Square is the perfect place to start. This public square is one of the most captivating places to visit in Galway. Next, head to Spanish Arch, a locally appreciated historical landmark, known for its breathtaking features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway. This stunning church is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Trim Castle. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dublin, 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 Dublin. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Mulligan's after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to John Kavanagh The Gravediggers, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cassidy's also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dublin for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Phoenix Park. This interesting park is a romantic place to see in Dublin. Continue your discovery at Dublin Zoo, a gorgeous zoo with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Dublin, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Guinness Storehouse. This locally renowned brewery offers a historic encounter with Dublin. Next, make your way to Molly Malone Statue to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Book Of Kells, a popular museum that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Dublin.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Dublin's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Don’t miss out on dining at Taste Food Company, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Confession Box. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

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.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Ireland!

Day 5 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Dublin. You have 1 night left in Dublin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

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.

Dublin is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a museum, an art gallery, a botanical garden and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable 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 notable spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular National Botanic Gardens.

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 Dublin's best restaurants.

Savor the flavors at The Brazen Head, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bewley's Grafton Street beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dublin tonight.

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 to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Dublin, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cork. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Dublin includes a monument, a castle, and a church. Ha'penny Bridge is must-visit monument and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Dublin Castle, a notable castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to St Patrick's Cathedral, a stunning church, also available for your discovery today.

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 you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cork. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cork by booking a table at Goldie, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, renowned for its delectable japanese dishes. This Bib Gourmand restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Ireland!