One-Week Ireland Road Trip from Cork traveling east to Dublin and Galway

Your road trip adventure in Ireland begins as soon as you reach Cork and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Cork for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Cork is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out National Monument or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

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.

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.

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. Don’t miss out on dining at The Woodford, a top-rated dining destination in Cork. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Izz Cafe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Liberty Grill. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cork this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at The Shelbourne Bar, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Oval offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Cork.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Ireland!

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Cork has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Cork by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Journey into the unknown at Cork City Gaol, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable prison has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,919 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Fitzgerald's Park is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,170 reviews.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Cork, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Cork below.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cork. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Esteemed for its , this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of cuisine. This esteemed -recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. With its recognition, it guarantees an unforgettable dining adventure. Savor the flavors at Luigi Malones Cork, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Costigan's Pub beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Hayfield Manor Hotel. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Cork tonight.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Kilkenny, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, and Cahir. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dublin. You will spend 3 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Kilkenny’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel behind. This drive usually takes around 53 min. Kilkenny welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Kilkenny Castle. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,458 visitors.

Kilkenny Castle is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This schloss country house museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,743 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel. This drive usually takes around 17 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Make Rock of Cashel one of your first sightseeing stops in The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,510 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Dublin. Dublin offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dublin. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Merchant's Arch, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Brazen Head offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Stags Head. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dublin.

Keep the evening going at Light House Cinema, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Ireland!

Day 4 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Dublin. You have 2 nights left in Dublin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

When you're ready to see some sights, Phoenix Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 37,298 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Dublin Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,663 travelers. Every year, 1,105,005 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Dublin.

We also recommend a stop at Iveagh Gardens. The urban park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,956 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Bull Island. This island is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,957 reviews.

National Botanic Gardens is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this botanical garden, rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,718 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your travel plan. Ireland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you explore more of Dublin, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

This -awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. This awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal. Make sure to reserve a table at Chapter One Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Dublin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Bank on College Green, a popular restaurant in Dublin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café en Seine, a hidden gem nestled in Dublin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Ireland!

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dublin for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Take the opportunity to see National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,321 visitors and gets around 370,965 visits every year.

St Stephen's Green is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,521 travelers.

Dublin is also the home of Dublin Castle. Around 31,463 people have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is St Patrick's Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 21,169 reviews, a visit to this anglican or episcopal cathedral is a great idea.

This day of your vacation in Dublin is also your chance to admire Guinness Storehouse. This must-visit tourist attraction enjoys an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,154 reviews.

Your discoveries in Dublin do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Dublin on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Dublin. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mr Fox, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Porterhouse Temple Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dublin.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Ireland.

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Dublin. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Galway, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Dublin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Galway. Your travel time is around 2 hours 13 min.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Irish Whiskey Museum. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,081 visitors.

When you’re finished at Irish Whiskey Museum, head to Book of Kells. This one-of-a-kind codex is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,299 reviews.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Molly Malone Statue. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 11,774 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, then consider a visit to Ha'penny Bridge. This footbridge is a much-appreciated attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,278 visitors.

To round off your sightseeing experience, make your way to Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. This famous anglican or episcopal cathedral is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,563 travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Galway, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Galway. 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.

Make sure to book a table at The Front Door Pub, a popular restaurant in Galway. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Galway at O'Connell's Bar Galway, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Zappis Restaurant. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Galway tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Tigh Neachtain is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Crane Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is O'Connor's Famous Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Galway and Limerick. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cork, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

After soaking in Galway’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Limerick. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 18 min. When you arrive in Limerick, it's time to take a break from the road.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Eyre Square. Previous visitors have rated this square an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,114 reviews.

Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,556 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Great Escape Rooms. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,162 reviews.

Spanish Arch is another outstanding experience in Galway. Around 5,753 travelers have rated this point of interest an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars.

After soaking in Galway’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Limerick. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 18 min. When you arrive in Limerick, it's time to take a break from the road.

Drop by the renowned King John's Castle. This popular castle has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,634 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Cork, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cork's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

This popular -awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Have a fantastic dining experience at White Rabbit Bar & BBQ, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The SpitJack Cork offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Raven Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cork.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Ireland.

Day 8 of your road trip in Ireland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cork before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Ireland unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Cork’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Ireland. Keep the spirit of your trip to Ireland alive with these special souvenirs.

Before you conclude your road trip in Ireland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cork.

Renowned for its , this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of cuisine. This distinguished -recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With an acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at A Bróg Bar + Kitchen, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Silver Key Bar and Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Cornstore Cork.

You’ll then say farewell to Cork. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Ireland!