7-Day Ireland Road Trip from Cork traveling north to Waterford City Metropolitan District, Dublin, and Galway

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Hotel
Customizable
Car rental
Customizable
Tours & tickets
Customizable
Travel plan
All inclusive app
Travel agent
24/7 instant service

Description

Explore the best of Ireland on a 7-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Cork, Blarney, Waterford City Metropolitan District, Kilkenny, Enniskerry, Dublin, Galway, and Bunratty. This road trip itinerary in Ireland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.

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, 1 night in Waterford City Metropolitan District, 2 nights in Dublin, and 1 night in Galway. 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. Phoenix Park and Cliffs Of Moher are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cork, Blarney, Waterford City Metropolitan District, Kilkenny, Enniskerry, Dublin, Galway, and Bunratty, 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!

Read more

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1 – Cork - arrival day

  • Cork - Arrival day
  • More
  • Red Abbey Tower
  • More

Say hello to Cork! Your exciting road trip through Ireland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Cork for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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 Red Abbey Tower or 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 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.

Dine in style at The Woodford, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Greenes Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Izz Cafe. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cork.

Keep the evening going at Impala, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Shelbourne Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is The Oval, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Ireland!

Read more
Day 2

Day 2 – Cork, Blarney, and Waterford City Metropolitan District

  • Waterford
  • Cork
  • Blarney
  • More

Drive 144 km, 2 hours 41 min

  • Cork Opera House
  • Fitzgerald Park
  • Cork City Gaol
  • Blarney Stone
  • Blarney Castle & Gardens
  • More

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 Waterford City Metropolitan District, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Cork Opera House, a remarkable opera house where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,872 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Fitzgerald's Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,236 travelers.

Cork City Gaol is another must-visit attraction. This renowned prison offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,984 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Set your GPS to Blarney and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 10 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Blarney beckons with new experiences!

Kick off the day at Blarney Stone, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This stone is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,888 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Blarney Castle & Gardens. Blarney Castle & Gardens is a park with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,871 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Waterford City Metropolitan District. Waterford City Metropolitan District offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Everett's in Waterford City Metropolitan District by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Everett's offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're looking to mix things up, Bodega offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Geoff's Cafe Bar, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out The Gingerman, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, An Uisce Beatha provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Ireland!

Read more
Day 3

Day 3 – Waterford City Metropolitan District, Kilkenny, Wicklow, The Municipal District of Bray, Enniskerry, and Dublin

  • Dublin
  • Kilkenny
  • Enniskerry
  • More

Drive 228 km, 3 hours 43 min

  • Kilkenny Castle Park
  • Kilkenny Castle
  • Wicklow Mountains National Park
  • Powerscourt Waterfall
  • Powerscourt House & Gardens
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Kilkenny, Wicklow, The Municipal District of Bray, and Enniskerry. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dublin. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kilkenny. This drive usually takes around 38 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Kilkenny Castle. Previous visitors have rated this schloss country house museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,966 reviews.

Kilkenny Castle is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This schloss country house museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,597 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Kilkenny, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Wicklow. Your travel time is around 1 hour 33 min.

Journey into the unknown at Wicklow Mountains National Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,625 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Dublin, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Dublin's best restaurants.

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.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Mulligan's, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, John Kavanagh The Gravediggers offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dublin. Cassidy's is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Read more
Day 4

Day 4 – Dublin

  • Dublin
  • More

Drive 17 km, 1 hour 22 min

  • Phoenix Park
  • St Patrick's Cathedral
  • Guinness Storehouse
  • National Museum of Ireland - Archaeology
  • The Book of Kells Experience
  • More

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Dublin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Take the opportunity to see Phoenix Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 37,460 visitors.

St Patrick's Cathedral is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This anglican or episcopal cathedral has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 21,374 travelers.

Dublin is also the home of Guinness Storehouse. Around 19,378 people have rated this tourist attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, which hosts up to 370,965 visitors every year. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 12,538 reviews, a visit to this national museum is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Dublin is also your chance to admire Book Of Kells. This must-visit codex enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,760 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Dublin, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Dublin below.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Taste Food Company, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Confession Box is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dublin.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bruxelles after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Light House Cinema, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bowe's Lounge Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

Read more
Day 5

Day 5 – Dublin, and Galway

  • Galway
  • Dublin
  • More

Drive 224 km, 3 hours 28 min

  • Ha'penny Bridge
  • Dublin Castle
  • St Stephen's Green
  • Dublin Zoo
  • National Botanic Gardens
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Dublin. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Galway, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Ha'penny Bridge. Previous visitors have rated this footbridge an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,413 reviews.

Dublin Castle is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 31,657 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is St Stephen's Green. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 29,869 reviews.

Dublin Zoo is another outstanding experience in Dublin. Around 25,781 travelers have rated this zoo an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars. The attraction hosts 1,105,005 visitors annually.

If you long for more, National Botanic Gardens is not far away. This botanical garden is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,941 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Galway, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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

Make sure to book a table at The Front Door Pub, a popular restaurant in Galway. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Galway at The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Busker Brownes. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Galway tonight.

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

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Ireland.

Read more
Day 6

Day 6 – Galway, Bunratty, and Cork

  • Cork
  • Galway
  • Bunratty
  • More

Drive 253 km, 4 hours 10 min

  • Eyre Square
  • Great Escape Rooms
  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Galway, and Bunratty, 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.

Make Eyre Square your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,318 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Great Escape Rooms. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,221 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Cliffs Of Moher. This cliff is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 32,770 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Cork. Cork offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you explore more of Cork, 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 Cork by booking a table at Goldie, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Cork, Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese cuisine. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.

Say good night to Cork and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Ireland!

Read more
Day 7

Day 7 – Cork - departure day

  • Cork - Departure day
  • More
  • Triskel Arts Centre
  • More

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.

Maximize your last day in Ireland and go on a shopping spree in Cork’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Ireland.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Triskel Arts Centre. This venue is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 507 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Ireland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cork.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ziggys Bar? It's another excellent option with a diverse 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!

Read more

Similar travel packages

Explore other unique escapes in Ireland

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.