One-Week Ireland Road Trip from Dingle to Cork, Dublin, and Galway

Welcome to Dingle, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Ireland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Dingle's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Dingle is a beautiful town with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Dingle. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Ireland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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

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

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Killarney. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cork, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Killarney. This car ride takes around 1 hour 10 min.

Journey into the unknown at Ross Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,141 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Muckross Abbey is a recommended place to visit. This abbey is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,866 reviews.

After soaking in Kenmare’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Killarney. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 10 min. When you arrive in Killarney, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Muckross House your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this house an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,388 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Killarney National Park. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,587 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

Torc Mountain is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This mountain has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,640 visitors.

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.

As you explore more of Cork, 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Cork by booking a table at Goldie. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award, and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, celebrated for its delectable japanese menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. 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 enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Shelbourne Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Oval. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

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 2 vibrant destinations - Blarney and Kilkenny. 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.

Upon your arrival in Blarney, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Blarney Stone. This popular stone has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,710 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Blarney Castle & Gardens. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,764 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cork and set your GPS to Kilkenny. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 59 min. Upon reaching Kilkenny, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Kilkenny Castle. This schloss country house museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Kilkenny, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,458 visitors.

Kilkenny Castle is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,743 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 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.

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Dublin by securing a table at Bastible. Esteemed as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Patrick Guilbaud, famous for its scrumptious modern french dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Dublin. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Light House Cinema offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

Head back to your accommodation in Dublin and get some rest in preparation for another magical 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Phoenix Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 37,298 visitors.

Dublin Zoo is another popular attraction you could visit today. This zoo has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,663 visitors. Dublin Zoo attracts up to 1,105,005 visitors every year.

National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology is also highly recommended by travelers. More than 370,965 people visit this top attraction every year. This national museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,321 visitors.

St Stephen's Green is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 29,521 reviews.

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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Chapter One Restaurant, a highly-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Bank on College Green, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café en Seine. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this 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 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.

Make Guinness Storehouse one of your first sightseeing stops in Dublin. Rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,154 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

St Patrick's Cathedral is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This anglican or episcopal cathedral is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 21,169 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Dublin Castle. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 31,463 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. A trip to this popular anglican or episcopal cathedral is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.5 out of 5-star rating as given by 9,563 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is National Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden enjoys an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,718 local and international travelers.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mr Fox, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Porterhouse Temple Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

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

Dive into day 6 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 Galway. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Make Ha'penny Bridge your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this footbridge an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,278 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Molly Malone Statue. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 11,774 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

Irish Whiskey Museum is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,081 visitors.

When you’re finished at Irish Whiskey Museum, the perfect next stop is Book of Kells. This codex is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,299 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Iveagh Gardens. This urban park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,956 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Galway, 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 Galway's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Dine in style at The Front Door Pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, O'Connell's Bar Galway boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Zappis Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Galway.

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.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 Dingle, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Eyre Square, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,114 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway is a recommended place to visit. This catholic cathedral is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,556 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Galway is Spanish Arch. Rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,753 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Galway offers an experience you will remember.

When you’ve had your share of Galway, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Limerick. Your travel time is around 1 hour 18 min.

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.

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

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

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

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

Maximize your last day in Ireland and go on a shopping spree in Dingle’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Ireland, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Ireland home with you through these charming souvenirs.

Drop by the renowned Dingle Lighthouse (Teach Solais a Daingin). This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 141 visitors.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Dingle. 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!