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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dublin for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Dublin is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Phoenix Park, a notable park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Guinness Storehouse, enchanting visitors with its picture-perfect appeal. Continue your exploration at St Patrick's Cathedral. This church is one of the city’s most captivating spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Dublin at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Dublin Castle. After exploring the castle, head to the notable National Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden will wrap up today’s self-guided sightseeing tour in the city.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Dublin's bustling shopping hub, Grafton Street. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Grafton Street offers plenty of options, including cafes, primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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

Start your culinary exploration in Dublin by securing a reservation at Bastible. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Patrick Guilbaud, celebrated for its delectable modern french menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Dublin. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cork, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Start by visiting Book Of Kells, a prime spot to begin your journey. This heritage-rich museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, another must-visit landmark and popular museum renowned for its heritage-rich features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Dublin by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to St Stephen's Green. This romantic park is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. Dublin Zoo also adds charm to your journey.

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 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.

Discover the culinary delights of Cork by securing a reservation at Goldie. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, renowned for its delicious japanese dishes. This esteemed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Impala. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Shelbourne Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Oval provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

On day 4 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 Cork, Blarney, and Carrigtwohill. In the evening, you’ll end up in Killarney, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Cork is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Fitzgerald's Park, an up-and-coming park that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Cork Opera House, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal.

Set your GPS to Blarney and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 13 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Blarney beckons with new experiences!

Begin your journey at Blarney Stone and explore the picture-perfect features. Next, make your way to Blarney Castle & Gardens, another highlight in the city.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Carrigtwohill, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Blarney to Carrigtwohill may take around 32 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Carrigtwohill, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take your self-guided tour to Fota Wildlife Park, a locally renowned wildlife reserve that everyone visiting Carrigtwohill should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Killarney, 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 Killarney. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Malarkey, a highly-rated dining destination in Killarney. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Mad Monk by Quinlans, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vendricks Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Killarney this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting John M. Reidy after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Courtney's Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Jimmy Brien's also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Limerick and Bunratty, 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.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Limerick allows for both.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Limerick. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 41 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Head to King John's Castle, an often recommended castle in Limerick. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bunratty. This car ride takes around 17 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, an interesting castle that everyone visiting Bunratty should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Cliffs Of Moher, a notable cliff that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Aillwee Cave, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Front Door Pub, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Busker Brownes as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Galway.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Dew Drop Inn, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Freeney's Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Tigh Neachtain likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Say good night to Galway and look forward to another great 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 1 destination, Galway. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dublin, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Galway’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Eyre Square. This heritage-rich public square is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Galway City Museum, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Spanish Arch, an underrated historical landmark.

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 Dublin. Dublin 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 Dublin's best restaurants.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Brazen Head, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bewley's Grafton Street, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Bridge 1859 offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, The Dame Tavern is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Mary's Bar & Hardware is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!