One-Week Ireland Road Trip from Cork to Limerick, 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 Glanmire, Cork, and Blarney. In the evening, you’ll end up in Limerick, where you will stay for 1 night.

Make Fitzgerald's Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,236 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Cork City Gaol. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,984 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this prison every year.

Upon reaching Glanmire, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Munster Technological University your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this technological university an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 3,437 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Limerick, 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 Limerick. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Collins Bar Dooradoyle, a top-rated dining spot in Limerick. If you're in the mood for something new, try Freddy’s Restaurant, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bobby Byrne's. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Limerick.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Charlie Chaplin's Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, South's Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Glen Tavern provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

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 2 vibrant destinations - Bunratty, and Kinvarra. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Galway. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bunratty. This car ride takes around 18 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, Bunratty Castle & Folk Park is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,575 visitors.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cliffs Of Moher. This cliff is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Bunratty, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 32,770 visitors.

Poulnabrone Dolmen is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,067 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Aillwee Cave. Visitors have rated this show cave an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,959 reviews.

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

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Éan, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Aniar is one of the best restaurants for modern, and irish cuisine in Galway. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at The Dew Drop Inn, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Freeney's Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Tigh Neachtain 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Galway, The Municipal District of Trim, and The Municipal District of Laytown — Bettystown. 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.

Take the opportunity to see Eyre Square. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,318 visitors.

Spanish Arch is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,825 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Galway and set your GPS to The Municipal District of Trim. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 59 min. Upon reaching The Municipal District of Trim, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at Trim Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,224 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 Dublin. Dublin 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 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Dublin by securing a reservation at Bastible. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Patrick Guilbaud, celebrated for its delectable modern french menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Dublin, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

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

Dublin Zoo is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This zoo has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,781 travelers. Up to 1,105,005 people visit Dublin Zoo every year.

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 Botanic Gardens. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from a total of 15,941 reviews, a visit to this botanical garden is a great idea.

After soaking in Dublin’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Enniskerry. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 49 min. When you arrive in Enniskerry, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Powerscourt House & Gardens. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,555 reviews.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Taste Food Company, a top-rated dining spot in Dublin. If you're in the mood for something new, try Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Confession Box. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dublin.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Bruxelles offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Light House Cinema is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Bowe's Lounge Bar is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to St Patrick's Cathedral. This anglican or episcopal cathedral is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 21,374 visitors.

Dublin Castle is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 31,657 visitors.

St Stephen's Green is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 29,869 visitors.

National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology is an attraction you won’t want to miss. Around 370,965 people visit this place every year. This national museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,538 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is National Gallery Of Ireland. This art gallery has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,801 travelers.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Brazen Head, a top-rated dining spot in Dublin. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bewley's Grafton Street, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dublin.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Bridge 1859, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Dame Tavern offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Mary's Bar & Hardware. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Dublin, and Kilkenny. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cork, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Ha'penny Bridge. This footbridge is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,413 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Molly Malone Statue. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 11,943 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Book Of Kells. This codex has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,760 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Kilkenny. This car ride takes around 1 hour 38 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Kilkenny Castle. This extraordinary schloss country house museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,966 visitors.

Next, make your way to Kilkenny Castle. This top attraction is a schloss country house museum with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,597 visitors.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Cork by securing a reservation at Goldie. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, celebrated for its delectable japanese menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Ireland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!