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

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photo of view of Dublin, Ireland. Night view of famous illuminated Ha Penny Bridge in Dublin, Ireland at sunset,Dublin Ireland.
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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 7-day road trip through Ireland. Explore diverse landscapes, discover lively cities, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Ireland. You will spend 2 nights in Dublin, 2 nights in Galway, and 2 nights in Killarney. 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 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. Cliffs Of Moher and Dublin Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dublin, Athlone, Galway, The Municipal District of Adare — Rathkeale, Killarney, Dingle, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, and Kilkenny, 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, accommodations, 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!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

Day 1

  • Dublin - Arrival day
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  • Temple Bar
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Say hello to Dublin! 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 Dublin for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

Dublin is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Dublin. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Dublin, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Peadar Kearney's Pub, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Lotts Cafe Bar? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Merchant's Arch as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.

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.

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

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Day2

Day 2

  • Dublin
  • Galway
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Drive 211 km, 3 hours

  • The Book of Kells Experience
  • Molly Malone Statue
  • Dublin Castle
  • St. Patrick's Cathedral Park
  • Athlone Regional Sports Centre
  • Eyre Square
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Dublin, Athlone, and Galway. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Galway, where will spend 2 nights.

Awaiting your discovery is the popular Book Of Kells, a heritage-rich museum in Dublin. Next, go to Molly Malone Statue.

After visiting Book Of Kells and Molly Malone Statue, have a stroll along Dublin's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Dublin Castle. This picture-perfect castle offers a unique experience. St Patrick's Cathedral is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Eyre Square.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Galway. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Front Door Pub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Busker Brownes. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Galway tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Dew Drop Inn, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Freeney's Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Tigh Neachtain likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Galway
  • More

Drive 161 km, 3 hours 29 min

  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Poulnabrone dolmen
  • Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway
  • The Latin Quarter
  • Salthill
  • Shop Street
  • More

Wake up to day 3 of your road trip in Ireland. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Galway. With 1 night to stay in Galway, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Galway is brimming with adventures. Salthill is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Galway. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away. For another highlight, head to Shop Street, a street offering its own unique experiences.

Cliffs Of Moher makes a great addition to your morning plans. This locally renowned cliff is a mesmerizing place to see in Galway. Continue your discovery at Poulnabrone Dolmen, a picture-perfect archeological site with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Galway, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway. This often recommended church offers a historic encounter with Galway. Next, make your way to The Latin Quarter to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Galway.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Galway.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Galway. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Apoema Bistro, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Finnegans offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Gemelle's. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Galway.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Crane Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. O'connor's Famous Pub is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Sally Longs Rock Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Ireland!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Galway
  • Killarney
  • More

Drive 242 km, 3 hours 54 min

  • Trinitarian Abbey
  • Adare Town Park
  • Killarney National Park
  • Torc Mountain
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip in Ireland, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. The Municipal District of Adare — Rathkeale and Killarney are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Killarney, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Visiting Trinitarian Abbey is always a good idea. This increasingly popular church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picturesque wonders of Adare Town Park, a must-see park in the village.

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 Killarney National Park. This captivating national park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Torc Mountain, where you can take in idyllic features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Killarney. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Killarney's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Malarkey, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Mad Monk by Quinlans offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Vendricks Restaurant. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Killarney.

Cap off your dinner by heading to John M. Reidy, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Courtney's Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Jimmy Brien's is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

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Day5

Day 5

  • Killarney
  • More

Drive 138 km, 2 hours 54 min

  • Ross Castle
  • Dingle Distillery
  • Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium
  • St Mary's Church
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Killarney, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town, including Killarney and Dingle.

Check out the increasingly popular castle, Ross Castle. Afterward, continue to Inch Beach, Co. Kerry, a beach every traveler should visit. As you explore Killarney’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Next, make your way to Dingle Distillery. This underrated distillery is an essential stop. Following that, head to Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by St Mary's Church, a curiosity-inducing church in the town.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Killarney and your accommodation.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Killarney. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Killarney Royal Hotel, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Curious Cat Café as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Killarney.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub, where the evening is just getting started.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Killarney
  • Dublin
  • More

Drive 338 km, 4 hours 46 min

  • Rock of Cashel
  • Kilkenny Castle
  • Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny
  • Cathedral Church of St Canice & Round Tower
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel and Kilkenny. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Dublin, where you'll spend 1 night.

To truly experience Killarney, make sure to drop by Rock Of Cashel. This interesting castle is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Kilkenny Castle, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny, one of the most beloved places to see in Killarney. This brewery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, St Canice's Cathedral. Wander around and soak in the grand atmosphere this church offers.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Taste Food Company, 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 Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, 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 Confession Box, a hidden gem nestled in Dublin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bruxelles is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Light House Cinema, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bowe's Lounge Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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Day7

Day 7

  • Dublin - Departure day
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  • Guinness Storehouse
  • More

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 Guinness Storehouse. This locally renowned brewery is a hotspot among locals.

For a shopping spree in Dublin, we recommend the lively Temple Bar. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping.

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

If you're in the mood for something new, try Bewley's Grafton Street, another premier location with a delectable menu.

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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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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