One-Week Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork traveling east to Galway and Dublin

On day 2 of your road trip in Ireland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Glanmire, Cork, and Blarney. In the evening, you’ll end up in Galway, where you will stay for 1 night.

Cork is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Munster Technological University, an up-and-coming astronomical observatory that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Fitzgerald's Park, enchanting visitors with its mesmerizing appeal. Continue your exploration at Cork City Gaol. This museum is one of the town’s most frequently visited spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Cork at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Blarney Stone. After exploring the monument, head to the notable Blarney Castle & Gardens.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Galway. Galway offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Éan in Galway by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Éan offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Aniar, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern and irish cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Dew Drop Inn, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Freeney's Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Tigh Neachtain offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Ireland!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Galway. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dublin, where you’ll be staying for 4 nights.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures in Galway. Begin your sightseeing with Eyre Square. This locally renowned public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Spanish Arch, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Galway, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Galway City Museum. This up-and-coming museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dublin, 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 Dublin. 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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Dublin by reserving a table at Bastible. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Patrick Guilbaud, renowned for its delectable modern french dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dublin.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Mulligan's offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, John Kavanagh The Gravediggers is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Cassidy's is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Say good night to Dublin and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Ireland!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Dublin, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. 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. Brú Na Bóinne is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this culturally significant archeological site before continuing your journey. Trim Castle is your next stop. This up-and-coming castle is one of the best-rated sights in Dublin.

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 Powerscourt House & Gardens. This serene botanical garden is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Powerscourt Waterfall and Wicklow Mountains National Park.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dublin. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

Keep the evening going at Bruxelles, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Light House Cinema, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Bowe's Lounge Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Say good night to Dublin and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Ireland!

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Grafton Street is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Dublin. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Dublin allows for both. Start by heading to Phoenix Park. This notable park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Dublin Zoo, an instagrammable zoo, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Guinness Storehouse, a notable brewery. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating St Stephen's Green.

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

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

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.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Bridge 1859 stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Dame Tavern offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Mary's Bar & Hardware is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is National Botanic Gardens. This notable botanical garden is an eye-catching place to see in Dublin. Continue your discovery at Molly Malone Statue, a heritage-rich monument with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Dublin, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Book Of Kells. This notable museum offers an eye-catching encounter with Dublin. Next, make your way to National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit National Gallery Of Ireland, a captivating art gallery that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Dublin.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. 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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dublin. 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at SOLE Seafood & Grill, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kehoes Pub offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Cobblestone. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dublin.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Dublin, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cork. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Dublin, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Ha'penny Bridge, a popular monument in the city. Then, head to Dublin Castle and soak in the ambiance of this culturally significant castle.

There are many interesting places to see in Dublin, and when you are ready for more, go to St Patrick's Cathedral. This is one of the city’s most notable stunning spots of interest.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Cork. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

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

Have a memorable dining experience in Cork by booking a table at Goldie, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional seafood menu. For a different culinary experience in Cork, Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious japanese cuisine. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.

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