One-Week Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork to Killarney and Galway

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Carrigtwohill. You’ll stay in Cork for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

A blend of fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views await you in Cork on today’s itinerary. First up is the popular wildlife reserve, Fota Wildlife Park. Afterward, continue to Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral, a church every traveler should visit.

As you explore Cork’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Cork Public Museum. This locally appreciated museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Cork City Gaol, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Blarney Castle & Gardens, a well-known castle in the town.

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.

Shop 'til you drop at Cork's premier shopping hotspot, Douglas Farmers' Market! Elevate your style by browsing through shops, filled with unique finds. Keep an eye out for artisan crafts, perfect as cherished mementos. Douglas Farmers' Market also offers more, including attractions, key services, and exciting local experiences to round out your visit.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Liberty Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Canty's Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cork.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day 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 Killarney and Kenmare. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Killarney, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Cork, including a museum, a national park, a waterfall, a castle, a canyon and much more! Start your day at Muckross House. This respected museum is an underrated place to see in Cork. Then, wander over to Killarney National Park. If standout sites excite you, this national park will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Torc Mountain. This eye-catching waterfall is a favorite among visitors.

Cork offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Ross Castle is an often recommended spot in the region that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the castle, don’t forget to check out the awe-inspiring Gap Of Dunloe. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved canyon.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Killarney. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Malarkey, a top-rated dining destination in Killarney. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Mad Monk by Quinlans, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vendricks Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Killarney this evening.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Ireland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Killarney for your remaining 2 nights in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Kenmare.

Start by visiting Head Of The Gap Of Dunloe, a prime spot to begin your journey. This mesmerizing hiking area is sure to impress.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Killarney by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Kerry Cliffs (aillte Chiarraí). This romantic cliff is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Killarney experience.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Killarney. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Killarney Royal Hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Curious Cat Café. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Killarney tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in Ireland, you’ll start and end your day in Killarney, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you will return to Killarney for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Kenmare and Dingle to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming region of Killarney. Your adventure starts at Conor Pass Waterfall, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Inch Beach, Co. Kerry. This locally appreciated beach is known for its romantic appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Killarney's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Dingle Distillery. This visually striking distillery offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Kingdom Falconry is also worth visiting.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Speakeasy Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Shire Bar & Cafe offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Caragh Restaurant & Lounge Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Killarney.

Head back to your accommodation in Killarney and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland!

On day 6 of your road trip in Ireland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. In the evening, you’ll end up in Galway, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s itinerary in Killarney covers several incredible sights, including a cliff, an archeological site, and a national park. Start your adventure at Cliffs Of Moher. This captivating cliff is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the culturally significant wonders of Poulnabrone Dolmen, a must-see archeological site 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 Burren National Park. This worthwhile national park offers an enriching experience. 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 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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor the flavors at The Front Door Pub, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Busker Brownes. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Galway tonight.

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.

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

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

Immerse yourself in Galway’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Eyre Square. This noteworthy public square is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of The Latin Quarter, a must-visit street in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Galway City Museum, a curiosity-inducing museum. For a change of scene, check out Rock Of Cashel, known for its historic features.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Ziggys Bar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Luigi Malones Cork is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cork.

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