7-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin to Carlingford and surrounding area
Description
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through Ireland. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Ireland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 5 nights in Dublin and 1 night in Carlingford. 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 Dublin, 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 St Stephen's Green are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Dublin Castle, learn more about the unique Dublin Zoo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of St Patrick's Cathedral.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dublin, Malahide, Castleknock, Curragha, Carlingford, Dún Laoghaire, and Dundrum, 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Dublin - Arrival day
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- Ha'penny Bridge
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Welcome to Dublin, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Ireland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 4 nights immersing yourself in Dublin's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Dublin 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 Ha'penny Bridge, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Dublin. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Dublin, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Savor the flavors at Peadar Kearney's Pub, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Lotts Cafe Bar beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Merchant's Arch. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dublin tonight.
Keep the evening going at Mulligan's, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to John Kavanagh The Gravediggers, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Cassidy's, 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!
Day 2
- Dublin
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Drive 23 km, 1 hour 32 min
- Phoenix Park
- Dublin Zoo
- Guinness Storehouse
- Dublin Castle
- National Botanic Gardens
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Dublin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Dublin. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Phoenix Park is the perfect place to start. This park is one of the most notable places to visit in Dublin. Next, head to Dublin Zoo, a popular zoo, known for its picture-perfect 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 Guinness Storehouse. This historic brewery is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Dublin Castle and National Botanic Gardens. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
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.
Experience a harmony of flavors at Bastible in Dublin by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Bastible offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Patrick Guilbaud, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern french cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.
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.
Head back to your accommodation in Dublin and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland!
Day 3
- Dublin
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Drive 5 km, 1 hour 11 min
- St. Patrick's Cathedral Park
- St Stephen's Green
- National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
- National Gallery of Ireland
- The Book of Kells Experience
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On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Dublin, including a church, a park, a museum, an art gallery and much more! Start your adventure at St Patrick's Cathedral. This captivating church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to St Stephen's Green located in Dublin for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to National Gallery Of Ireland. Visitors usually appreciate the instagrammable features of this art gallery. Next up is Book Of Kells, a highly recommended museum.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dublin. 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at The Brazen Head, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bewley's Grafton Street, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Bridge 1859, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Dame Tavern offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dublin. Mary's Bar & Hardware is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Ireland!
Day 4
- Dublin
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Drive 55 km, 1 hour 36 min
- Malahide Castle & Gardens
- Malahide
- Santry Park
- Farmleigh House & Estate
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Dublin, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Malahide and Castleknock. You still have 1 night left in Dublin.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Malahide Castle & Gardens. This captivating castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Malahide, one of the town’s best highlights.
Next, check out Santry Park, one of the most locally appreciated places to see in Dublin. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Farmleigh House & Estate. Wander around and soak in the history-steeped atmosphere this palace offers.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Dublin and your accommodation.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dublin. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at SOLE Seafood & Grill, 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 Kehoes Pub, 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 Cobblestone, a hidden gem nestled in Dublin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Round off your dining experience by visiting John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", a prime location for a drink.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!
Day 5
- Dublin
- Carlingford
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Drive 126 km, 1 hour 54 min
- Emerald Park
- Newgrange
- Brú na Bóinne
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Curragha and The Municipal District of Laytown — Bettystown. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Carlingford. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Dublin, featuring fun adventures, picturesque spots, and breathtaking views. Start at Tayto Park, a well-known amusement park in the village. Then, head to Newgrange and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant archeological site.
There are many interesting places to see in Dublin, and when you are ready for more, go to Brú Na Bóinne. This is one of the village’s most frequently visited picture-perfect spots of interest.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Carlingford, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Carlingford. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Ireland.
Day 6
- Carlingford
- Dublin
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Drive 167 km, 2 hours 28 min
- Killiney Hill Park
- Marlay Park
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Dún Laoghaire and Dundrum. 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 1 night.
A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Carlingford on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved park, Killiney Hill Park. Afterward, continue to Marlay Park, a park every traveler should visit.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dublin. Dublin 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 Dublin, 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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Stags 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 Chapter One Restaurant, 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 Bank on College Green. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Dublin tonight.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Ireland!
Day 7
- Dublin - Departure day
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- Molly Malone Statue
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Day 7 of your road trip in Ireland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dublin before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Molly Malone Statue. This interesting monument is a popular place to see in the city.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
Before you conclude your road trip in Ireland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dublin.
Dine in style at Quays, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Keoghs Cafe boasts a menu that's sure to impress.
You’ll then say farewell to Dublin. 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!
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