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

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Ireland continues on day 2, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Ireland and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Cork and beyond. With 2 nights left in Cork, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Start your adventure at Fitzgerald's Park. This beloved park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Daly's Bridge (the Shakey Bridge) located in Cork for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Cork City Gaol. Its heritage-rich features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Blarney Castle & Gardens. Visitors usually appreciate the symbolic features of this castle. Next up is Blarney Stone, a highly recommended monument.

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

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

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.

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

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

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, natural wonders, and breathtaking views. Whether you decide to explore Cork on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Fota Wildlife Park is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this enchanting wildlife reserve before continuing your journey. "deck Of Cards" Houses is your next stop. This frequently visited street is one of the best-rated sights in Cork.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Titanic Experience Cobh. This visually striking museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Spike Island Tours Cobh.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, a popular restaurant in Cork. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cork at Ziggys Bar, 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 Luigi Malones Cork. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cork tonight.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Cork and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

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

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.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Cork on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Cahir Castle is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant castle before continuing your journey. Rock Of Cashel is your next stop. This locally renowned castle is one of the best-rated sights in Cork.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Kilkenny Castle. This enchanting castle is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Kilkenny Castle.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Dublin. 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 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Bastible, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Patrick Guilbaud, known for its delicious modern french cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Dublin is Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Dublin. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Mulligan's, known for its inviting atmosphere. John Kavanagh The Gravediggers is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Cassidy's provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Set aside time today to explore Grafton Street, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Dublin today. One of the most captivating attractions included on the itinerary is St Stephen's Green. This standout park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology and learn what makes this standout museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the interesting National Gallery Of Ireland. After exploring the art gallery, head to National Botanic Gardens. This captivating botanical garden is a highlight in Dublin.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Dublin can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in 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!

A blend of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Dublin on today’s itinerary. First up is the interesting park, Phoenix Park. Afterward, continue to Dublin Zoo, a zoo every traveler should visit.

As you explore Dublin’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Guinness Storehouse. This popular brewery is an essential stop. Following that, head to Molly Malone Statue, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Book Of Kells, a captivating museum in the city.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Ireland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Ireland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Brazen Head, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bewley's Grafton Street? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Ireland.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Bridge 1859, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Dame Tavern is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Mary's Bar & Hardware is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

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.

Immerse yourself in Dublin’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Ha'penny Bridge. This awe-inspiring monument is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the culturally significant features of Dublin Castle, a must-visit castle 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 St Patrick's Cathedral, a locally renowned church.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Cork. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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.

Savor the flavors at The Imperial Hotel & SPA, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tony's Bistro beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Costigan's Pub. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cork tonight.

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

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