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

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Experience the freedom of the open road in Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Cork, Blarney, Galway, Bunratty, Limerick, Killarney, Kinsale, Carrigtwohill, and Cobh.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Ireland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Cork, 2 nights in Galway, 2 nights in Limerick, and 1 night in Killarney. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Ireland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Cork, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Ireland on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Ireland. Cliffs Of Moher and Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cork, Blarney, Galway, Bunratty, Limerick, Killarney, Kinsale, Carrigtwohill, and Cobh, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Ireland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Ireland.

Throughout your road trip in Ireland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Ireland.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Ireland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Ireland today!

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Day 1

Day 1 – Cork - arrival day

  • Cork - Arrival day
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  • Tramore Valley Park
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Your road trip adventure in Ireland begins as soon as you reach Cork and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Cork for 1 night 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 Tramore Valley Park or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Cork. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Ireland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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.

Dine in style at The Woodford, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Greenes Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Izz Cafe. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cork.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Impala, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Shelbourne Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Oval provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day 2

Day 2 – Cork, Blarney, and Galway

  • Galway
  • Cork
  • Blarney
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Drive 209 km, 3 hours 7 min

  • Cork Opera House
  • Fitzgerald's Park
  • Cork City Gaol
  • Blarney Castle & Gardens
  • Blarney Stone
  • More

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.

Take the opportunity to see Cork Opera House. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,872 visitors.

Fitzgerald's Park is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,236 travelers.

Cork is also the home of Cork City Gaol. Around 2,984 people have rated this prison an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

When you’ve had your share of Cork, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Blarney. Your travel time is around 11 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Blarney Castle & Gardens. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Blarney, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,871 visitors.

Blarney Stone is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,888 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

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.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Éan in Galway by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Éan delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Aniar, acclaimed for its delectable modern, and irish specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

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

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Galway, and Bunratty

  • Galway
  • Bunratty
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Drive 236 km, 3 hours 52 min

  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Bunratty Castle & Folk Park
  • Eyre Square
  • Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Galway, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Eyre Square. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,318 reviews.

Continue your journey at Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway. This catholic cathedral is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,704 travelers from near and far.

Take the opportunity to see Cliffs Of Moher. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 32,770 visitors.

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.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,575 reviews.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Apoema Bistro, a highly-rated dining destination in Galway. If you're eager to try something different, consider Finnegans, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Gemelle's. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Galway this evening.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Crane Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, O'connor's Famous Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Sally Longs Rock Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Galway, and Limerick

  • Limerick
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Drive 266 km, 3 hours 59 min

  • Connemara National Park
  • Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
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When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Limerick, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Quiet Man Bridge. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 465 visitors.

Next, make your way to Connemara National Park. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,673 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Walled Victorian Garden. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,422 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,990 travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Limerick, 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 Limerick's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Collins Bar Dooradoyle, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Freddy’s Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Bobby Byrne's is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Limerick.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Charlie Chaplin's Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, South's Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Glen Tavern also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Limerick

  • Limerick
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Drive 3 km, 44 min

  • Treaty Stone
  • King John's Castle
  • Saint Mary's Cathedral
  • Hunt Museum
  • Arthur's Quay Park
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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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Treaty Stone. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 397 visitors.

King John's Castle is another popular attraction you could visit today. This castle has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,790 visitors.

Saint Mary's Cathedral is also highly recommended by travelers. This church has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,058 visitors.

Hunt Museum is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This art museum is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,111 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Arthur's Quay Park. This park has received an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,231 travelers.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

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

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.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Fitzgerald's Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Ma Hogans Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Portley's Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Limerick, and Killarney

  • Killarney
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Drive 146 km, 3 hours 20 min

  • Ross Castle
  • Muckross Abbey
  • Muckross House
  • Torc Mountain
  • Killarney National Park
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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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Limerick, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Killarney. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 44 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Ross Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,240 visitors.

When you’re finished at Ross Castle, head to Muckross Abbey. This one-of-a-kind abbey is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,945 reviews.

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

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.

Make sure to book a table at Malarkey, a popular restaurant in Killarney. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Killarney at The Mad Monk by Quinlans, 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 Vendricks Restaurant. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Killarney tonight.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Killarney, Kinsale, Carrigtwohill, Cobh, and Cork

  • Cork
  • Kinsale
  • Carrigtwohill
  • Cobh
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Drive 163 km, 2 hours 58 min

  • Charles Fort
  • Fota Wildlife Park
  • Titanic Experience Cobh
  • Spike Island Tours
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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.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Killarney, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kinsale may take around 1 hour 34 min. Upon your arrival in Kinsale, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Charles Fort. This much-appreciated fort is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,501 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Carrigtwohill. This drive usually takes around 43 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Fota Wildlife Park. Previous visitors have rated this zoo an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 12,556 reviews.

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.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Cork by reserving a table at Goldie. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, renowned for its delectable japanese dishes. This distinguished Bib Gourmand-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cork.

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

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Day 8

Day 8 – Cork - departure day

  • Cork - Departure day
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  • National Monument - Cork
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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.

Make the most of your final day in Ireland by visiting Cork’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Ireland.

Drop by the renowned National Monument. This popular monument has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 461 visitors.

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

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