One-Week Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork traveling west to Galway, Limerick, and Killarney

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

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and photo-friendly 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. Cork Opera House is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this romantic opera house before continuing your journey. Fitzgerald's Park is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing park 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 Cork City Gaol. This historic museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Blarney Castle & Gardens and Blarney Stone.

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Galway by securing a reservation at Éan. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Aniar, celebrated for its delectable modern and irish menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Dew Drop Inn, known for its lively atmosphere. Freeney's Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Tigh Neachtain offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Ireland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Galway for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Bunratty and Galway.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Cliffs Of Moher. This interesting cliff is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, one of the village’s best highlights.

Next, check out Eyre Square, one of the most well-known places to see in Galway. This public square is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway. Wander around and soak in the historic atmosphere this church offers.

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

As you explore more of Galway, 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.

Dine in style at Apoema Bistro, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Finnegans boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Gemelle's. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Galway.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Ireland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Limerick. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today’s itinerary in Galway covers several incredible sights, including a historical landmark, a national park, a botanical garden, a monastery and much more! Start your adventure at Quiet Man Bridge. This increasingly popular historical landmark is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable wonders of Connemara National Park, a must-see national park 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 Walled Victorian Garden. This increasingly popular botanical garden offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, where you can take in romantic features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Limerick. 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 Limerick's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Collins Bar Dooradoyle, a popular restaurant in Limerick. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Limerick at Freddy’s Restaurant, 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 Bobby Byrne's. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Limerick tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Charlie Chaplin's Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, South's Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Glen Tavern provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Ireland.

Day 5 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Limerick. You have 1 night left in Limerick. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Limerick, including a monument, a castle, a church, a museum, a park and much more! Start your day with a visit to Treaty Stone. This up-and-coming monument is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to King John's Castle, which may be one of the most historic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Limerick on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Saint Mary's Cathedral, an often recommended church in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Hunt Museum and Arthur's Quay Park.

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.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Old Quarter GastroPub, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cornstore Limerick offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Taikichi is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Limerick.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Fitzgerald's Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Ma Hogans Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Portley's Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Head back to your accommodation in Limerick and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Killarney, 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 Killarney. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Limerick, featuring fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Ross Castle, a curiosity-inducing castle in the town. Then, head to Muckross Abbey and soak in the ambiance of this stunning monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Limerick, and when you are ready for more, go to Muckross House. This is one of the town’s most curiosity-inducing breathtaking spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the often recommended Torc Mountain. Not far away, you'll also find Killarney National Park. This national park is a standout highlight in Limerick.

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

As you explore more of Killarney, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Malarkey, a top-rated dining destination in Killarney. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Mad Monk by Quinlans, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vendricks Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Killarney this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at John M. Reidy, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Courtney's Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Jimmy Brien's. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Kinsale, Carrigtwohill, and Cobh. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cork, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Killarney includes a castle, a wildlife reserve, and a museum. Charles Fort is must-visit castle and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Fota Wildlife Park, a captivating wildlife reserve, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Titanic Experience Cobh, an instagrammable museum, also available for your discovery today.

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

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Goldie in Cork by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Goldie delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, acclaimed for its delectable japanese specialties. This local Bib Gourmand establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

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