One-Week Relaxed Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork to Dublin

Your relaxed road trip in Ireland continues on day 2 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Ireland better by exploring the top attractions of Cork and beyond. With 2 nights left in Cork, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Whatever your travel style is, Fitzgerald's Park is an essential stop in Cork. This often recommended park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Cork City Gaol, an intriguing museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the interesting Blarney Castle & Gardens. Round off your day at Blarney Stone, another gem in Cork with historic features to discover.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Start 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.

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

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Ireland!

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you’ll explore the area around Cork, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Cork will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Ireland.

Catch Fota Wildlife Park before the crowds roll in. This picturesque wildlife reserve is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of "deck Of Cards" Houses, a must-visit street in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Titanic Experience Cobh, a worthwhile museum. For a change of scene, check out Spike Island Tours Cobh, known for its historic features.

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

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 wonderful meal at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, a top-rated dining spot in Cork. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ziggys Bar, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Luigi Malones Cork. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cork.

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.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Ireland!

Day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Cahir and drive in the direction of The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Dublin, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.

Cahir Castle is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This breathtaking castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Rock Of Cashel, another must-visit landmark and locally renowned castle renowned for its historic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Cork by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Kilkenny Castle. This history-steeped castle is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cork experience. We also recommend visiting Kilkenny Castle, an interesting park.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Dublin. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in Ireland.

Exploring the food culture in Dublin 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.

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.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Mulligan's, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out John Kavanagh The Gravediggers, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Cassidy's provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Ireland!

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Ireland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Dublin. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Dublin. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Dublin!

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today is Grafton Street. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Catch St Stephen's Green before the crowds roll in. This idyllic park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the standout features of National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, a must-visit museum 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 National Gallery Of Ireland, a well-known art gallery. For a change of scene, check out National Botanic Gardens, known for its serene features.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Cork. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Cork that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Ireland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Dublin to find the best options for you!

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Taste Food Company, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Confession Box. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Dublin and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bruxelles after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Light House Cinema for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Bowe's Lounge Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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 Dublin, 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 Dublin, and meet locals along the way!

Whether you decide to explore Dublin on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

To truly experience Dublin, make sure to drop by Phoenix Park. This well-known park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Dublin Zoo, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Guinness Storehouse, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Dublin. This brewery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Molly Malone Statue. Wander around and soak in the respected atmosphere this monument offers. Then, head to Book Of Kells, a top-rated museum that adds another dimension to your day.

Ireland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Ireland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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 Dublin, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Dine in style at The Brazen Head, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bewley's Grafton Street boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dublin.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Dublin. The bars in Dublin make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Bridge 1859, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Dame Tavern. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Mary's Bar & Hardware, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 7 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Ireland, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

To truly experience Dublin, make sure to drop by Ha'penny Bridge. This well-known monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Dublin Castle, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out St Patrick's Cathedral, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Dublin. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Ireland as you make your way to Cork. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Imperial Hotel & SPA, a highly-rated dining destination in Cork. If you're eager to try something different, consider Tony's Bistro, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Costigan's Pub. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cork this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Cork and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Cork as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Ireland!