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

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Cork and visit amazing attractions in Cork and Blarney destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Cork. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Start your adventure at Fitzgerald's Park. This increasingly popular park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

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 Cork City Gaol. This up-and-coming museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Blarney Castle & Gardens, where you can take in romantic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Blarney Stone and Blarney Stone. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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.

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.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed 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.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cork today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Fota Wildlife Park. This enchanting wildlife reserve will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to "deck Of Cards" Houses and learn what makes this romantic street unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Titanic Experience Cobh. After exploring the museum, head to Spike Island Tours Cobh. This intriguing castle is a highlight in Cork.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Cork, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to reserve a table at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, an iconic dining spot in Cork. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Ziggys Bar, a popular restaurant in Cork. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Luigi Malones Cork, a hidden gem nestled in Cork. 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, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Cork. The bars in Cork make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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 4 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Cahir and drive in the direction of the town of The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Dublin, where you’ll stay for 3 nights.

Start by visiting Cahir Castle, a prime spot to begin your journey. This breathtaking castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Rock Of Cashel, another must-visit landmark and interesting castle renowned for its monumental features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Cork by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Kilkenny Castle. This majestic castle is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Kilkenny Castle also adds charm to your journey.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Dublin in this laid-back road trip in Ireland. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

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 Dublin.

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.

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

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!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland, you’ll go deep into Dublin, where you'll stay for 2 nights, 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!

Grafton Street is a fantastic place you can explore today in Dublin. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Dublin-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Dublin, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at St Stephen's Green, a captivating park in the city. Then, head to National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology and soak in the ambiance of this heritage-rich museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Dublin and when you are ready for more, go to National Gallery Of Ireland. This is one of the city’s most notable spots. After exploring the art gallery, visit the popular National Botanic Gardens.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Dublin. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Dublin 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!

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Taste Food Company, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Confession Box as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.

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.

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.

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

Day 6 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!

Today’s itinerary in Dublin covers several incredible sights, including a park, a zoo, a brewery, a monument, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at Phoenix Park. This popular park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the stunning wonders of Dublin Zoo, a must-see zoo 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 Guinness Storehouse. This popular brewery offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Molly Malone Statue, where you can take in photogenic features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Book Of Kells and Book Of Kells. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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 Dublin.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Brazen Head, a popular restaurant in Dublin. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dublin at Bewley's Grafton Street, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Dublin tonight.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Bridge 1859, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Dame Tavern offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dublin. Mary's Bar & Hardware is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

Day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Ireland is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Cork for 1 night.

Dublin is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a monument, a castle, and a church. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the notable Ha'penny Bridge. Just a short distance away is Dublin Castle, an instagrammable castle that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to St Patrick's Cathedral, one of the city’s most captivating spots that you shouldn’t miss.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Cork. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Ireland by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Exploring the food culture in Cork 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.

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

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

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