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

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Cork and Blarney. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Galway, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Cork is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include an opera house, a park, and a museum. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated Cork Opera House. Just a short distance away is Fitzgerald's Park, a serene park that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Cork City Gaol, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots that you shouldn’t miss.

Set your GPS to Blarney and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 11 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Blarney beckons with new experiences!

Your self-guided tour starts at Blarney Castle & Gardens, a notable castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Blarney Stone and admire its historic features.

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

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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Galway by booking a table at Éan, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Galway, Aniar shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern and irish cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience.

Continue your lively evening at The Dew Drop Inn, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Freeney's Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Tigh Neachtain ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Galway, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Bunratty and Galway. You still have 1 night left in Galway.

Set out on a day brimming with a photogenic, a history-steeped, a culturally significant, a remarkable, a mesmerizing, and an inviting. Start at the interesting Eyre Square, a photogenic public square in Galway. Next, go to Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway.

Begin your journey at Cliffs Of Moher and explore the majestic features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Bunratty, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Galway. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 4 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. Spend some time admiring the standout features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Apoema Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Galway. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Finnegans, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gemelle's. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Galway this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Crane Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, O'connor's Famous Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Sally Longs Rock Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Ireland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Limerick, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Begin your journey at Quiet Man Bridge and explore the history-steeped features. Next, make your way to Connemara National Park, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the national park, continue to Walled Victorian Garden, a mesmerizing botanical garden. Nearby, you will also find Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden. This notable monastery is a top place to see in the area.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Collins Bar Dooradoyle, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Freddy’s Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bobby Byrne's. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Limerick.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Charlie Chaplin's Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. South's Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Glen Tavern offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Ireland!

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Limerick. You’ll stay in Limerick for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Limerick allows for both. Start by heading to Treaty Stone. This increasingly popular monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover King John's Castle, a picture-perfect castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Saint Mary's Cathedral, a worthwhile church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the often recommended Hunt Museum. Round off your day at Arthur's Quay Park, another gem in Limerick with mesmerizing features to discover.

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 Limerick. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Old Quarter GastroPub, a top-rated dining destination in Limerick. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cornstore Limerick, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Taikichi. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Limerick this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Fitzgerald's Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Ma Hogans Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Portley's Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

On day 7 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 Kinsale, Carrigtwohill, and Cobh. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cork, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Killarney, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kinsale. Your travel time is around 1 hour 34 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Charles Fort, a locally appreciated castle known for its breathtaking features.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Kinsale, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Carrigtwohill. This drive usually takes around 43 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Head to Fota Wildlife Park, a captivating wildlife reserve in Carrigtwohill. Explore its majestic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After soaking in Carrigtwohill’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cobh. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 10 min. When you arrive in Cobh, it's time to take a break from the road.

Head to Titanic Experience Cobh, an up-and-coming museum in Cobh. Explore its photogenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, Spike Island Tours Cobh. This beloved castle is a top recommendation in the area.

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

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

Experience a harmony of flavors at Goldie in Cork by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Goldie offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious seafood menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing japanese cuisine. This popular Bib Gourmand-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

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