One-Week Relaxed Ireland Road Trip from Cork to Galway

Your relaxed road trip through Ireland starts when you reach the incredible city of Cork, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Cork and begin your adventure in Ireland.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Triskel Arts Centre, a remarkable venue where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 506 reviews.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Cork. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Cork.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Goldie, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine is one of the best restaurants for japanese cuisine in Cork. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. You could also check for a table at Liberty Grill. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cork tonight.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Shelbourne Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Oval, another bar with an inviting ambiance.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Ireland. Enjoy your first taste of Cork as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Ireland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Glanmire. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the town of Glanmire!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Fitzgerald's Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,170 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Cork City Gaol. This prison has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,919 reviews.

Exploring one unique site after another provides you the much-needed variety during your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland. But to satisfy your curiosity or need for adventure, we recommend you add excursions in today’s agenda. You have a great selection of popular activities to choose from in Ireland.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Ireland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Cork.

Don’t miss out on dining at Luigi Malones Cork, a top-rated dining destination in Cork. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Costigan's Pub, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hayfield Manor Hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cork this evening.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Cork and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Ireland.

Day 3 of your self-drive tour in Ireland is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Galway for 4 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Ireland.

Galway’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of The Municipal District of Birr behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 16 min. Galway welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Mount St Joseph Abbey, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable place of worship has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 153 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Leap Castle, Ireland is a recommended place to visit. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 445 reviews.

After soaking in The Municipal District of Birr’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Galway. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 16 min. When you arrive in Galway, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Birr Castle Demesne. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,484 visitors.

In the city of Galway, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Ireland.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Galway has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Front Door Pub, an iconic dining spot in Galway. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of O'Connell's Bar Galway, a popular restaurant in Galway. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Zappis Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Galway. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Galway.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Tigh Neachtain offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Crane Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. O'Connor's Famous Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Ireland!

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in the city of Galway and visit amazing attractions in Ireland that travel enthusiasts from around the world often include in their itineraries. Today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in Ireland.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway. This extraordinary catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,556 visitors.

Next, make your way to Salmon Weir Bridge. This weir is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 212 reviews.

While in Galway, we also recommend a visit to Open The Door Escape Room. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 301 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Eyre Square. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,114 travelers, this square is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Galway.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Galway, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Menlo. This drive usually takes around 10 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Kick off the day at Menlo Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 579 reviews.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Ireland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Galway.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at A Púcán, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Skeff Bar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Kai Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Galway.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Caribou, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Taaffes Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Monroe's Tavern likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Ireland.

Day 5 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Galway, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Great Escape Rooms. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,162 reviews.

Next up is The Latin Quarter. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,096 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Spanish Arch. This sightseeing destination has been rated 4.2 out of 5 stars in 5,753 reviews.

Galway City Museum is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This city museum has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,232 reviews. This popular attraction gets 161,558 visits every year.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Quadrangle. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 175 reviews.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Ireland more special is by joining unique tours and activities in Ireland. Galway offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Ireland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Galway, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Dáil Bar Galway, an iconic dining spot in Galway. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Scotty's Burgers & Wings, Galway, Ireland. , a popular restaurant in Galway. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Quays Bar and Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Galway. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Galway’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Ireland.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Tigh Chóilí, known for its lively atmosphere.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Ireland!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland, you’ll go deep into Galway, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Galway, and meet locals along the way!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Port of Galway. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,067 reviews.

Continue your journey at Ladies Beach. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 166 travelers from near and far.

Galway is also the home of Galway Atlantaquaria, National Aquarium of Ireland. This aquarium has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,396 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Barna Woods. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,089 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Cappagh Park. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 465 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this park.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 6 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Ireland. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Galway itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city.

Exploring the food culture in Galway offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Dine in style at 1520 Bar, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Esquires - The Organic Coffee Co (Eyre Square) boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Hooked. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Galway.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Galway!

Day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Ireland is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Bunratty and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the city of Limerick and the city of Cork. You’ll stay in Cork for 1 night.

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 32,664 visitors.

Limerick’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bunratty behind. This drive usually takes around 16 min. Limerick welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,442 reviews.

Continue your journey at Shannon Heritage. This point of interest is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 256 travelers from near and far.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bunratty and set your GPS to Limerick. 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 16 min. Upon reaching Limerick, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to King John's Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,634 reviews.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Cork in this laid-back road trip in Ireland. You'll stay here for 1 night.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Ireland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Cork.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at White Rabbit Bar & BBQ, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The SpitJack Cork offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Raven Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cork.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Cork.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Ireland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Ireland tomorrow with new energy.

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Ireland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Cork.

On your last day in Ireland, take time to indulge in shopping at Cork’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Ireland. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Ireland forever.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Cork is the remarkable St Patrick's Bridge. This bridge and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 607 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Cork or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Cork and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in Ireland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.