Travel packages in Ireland

Road trips in Ireland

One-Week Relaxed Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin to Kilkenny

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photo of view of Dublin, Ireland. Night view of famous illuminated Ha Penny Bridge in Dublin, Ireland at sunset,Dublin Ireland.

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Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 8-day self-drive holiday in Ireland. Along the way, Dublin, Dún Laoghaire, Dundrum, Malahide, Kilkenny, The Municipal District of Castlecomer, Laragh, Enniskerry, and The Municipal District of Bray invite you to discover their unique blend of culture, scenery, and memorable experiences.

Travel freely with this relaxed self-drive package in Ireland, designed for comfort and exploration. Spend 5 nights in Dublin and 2 nights in Kilkenny, staying at top-rated hotels near the heart of each city. Between drives, indulge in local cuisine, sip refreshing drinks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Ireland.

Your journey starts in Dublin, where your rental car with CDW insurance will be ready for pickup. Choose a vehicle that suits your style, then set off on your 8-day relaxed road trip in Ireland to explore its rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning landscapes.

Every stop on this leisurely self-drive holiday comes with handpicked accommodations that make relaxation effortless. Choose from elegant 5-star hotels with breathtaking views or comfortable 3-star stays that offer excellent value, all providing a welcoming retreat after a day on the road.

With your self-drive itinerary in Ireland already planned, you’ll enjoy the country’s most celebrated sights without the rush. Marvel at the stunning Phoenix Park and soak in the atmosphere of the magnificent St Stephen's Green.

Enjoy each stop as you explore the history, architecture, and character of each destination on this Ireland road trip itinerary for 8 days.

As you travel between destinations, you’ll have plenty of time to explore local markets and boutique shops. These stops give you the chance to find unique souvenirs, taste regional specialties, and experience everyday life in Ireland.

If you want to make your 8-day relaxed self-drive tour in Ireland even more memorable, add optional tours or activities. Join a guided excursion, discover hidden neighborhoods, or spend an afternoon in your favorite market. Each choice deepens your connection to the places you visit.

Alongside these experiences, your laid-back self-drive package in Ireland includes 7 nights in comfortable hotels, a rental car for 8 days, and convenient access to nearby dining options. You can also add flights and entry tickets to shape the trip exactly how you want it. With 24/7 travel support and a mobile app keeping your itinerary and documents organized, you can enjoy a relaxed drive and savor every mile of the road ahead.

Turn your travel plans into reality. Book your 8-day relaxed self-drive road trip in Ireland today and enjoy a journey filled with discovery, freedom, and unforgettable moments!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65

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Day 1

Dublin - Arrival day
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Ha'penny Bridge
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Your relaxed road trip through Ireland starts when you reach the incredible city of Dublin, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Dublin and begin your adventure in Ireland.

Dublin is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Dublin. Make yourself at home and unwind before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Dublin, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Dublin and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Raise a toast as you look back on the highlights of today’s relaxed road trip in Ireland. Enjoy your first taste of Dublin as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Day 2

Dublin
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Drive 23 km, 1 hour 32 min

Phoenix Park
Dublin Zoo
Guinness Storehouse
Dublin Castle
National Botanic Gardens
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Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Ireland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Ireland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Dublin, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Dublin and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Ireland.

Day 3

Dublin
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Drive 5 km, 1 hour 11 min

St. Patrick's Cathedral Park
St Stephen's Green
National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
National Gallery of Ireland
The Book of Kells Experience
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Ireland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Ireland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Ireland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Dublin, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Ireland!

Day 4

Dublin
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Drive 45 km, 2 hours 10 min

Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police
People's Park
Forty Foot
Killiney Hill Park
Marlay Park
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On day 4 of your relaxed road trip in Ireland, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Dublin and visit amazing attractions in Dún Laoghaire and Dundrum, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Dublin, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

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

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Dublin and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Ireland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Ireland tomorrow with new energy.

Day 5

Dublin
Kilkenny
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Drive 185 km, 2 hours 38 min

St. Catherine's Park
Malahide Castle & Gardens
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Day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Ireland offers another chance for an in-depth travel experience. You’ll stay in Kilkenny for 2 nights.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Ireland as you make your way to Kilkenny. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Ireland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Kilkenny, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Kilkenny and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Ireland!

Day 6

Kilkenny
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Drive 42 km, 1 hour 18 min

Castlecomer Discovery Park
Cathedral Church of St Canice & Round Tower
Kilkenny Castle
Kilkenny Castle Park
High Street
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On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you’ll explore the area around Kilkenny, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Kilkenny will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Ireland.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Ireland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Kilkenny.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Kilkenny and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Ireland!

Day 7

Kilkenny
Dublin
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Drive 185 km, 3 hours 39 min

Glendalough Cathedral
Wicklow Mountains National Park
Powerscourt Waterfall
Powerscourt House & Gardens
Bray Seafront
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Day 7 of your self-drive tour in Ireland offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll stay in Dublin for 1 night. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Ireland.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Dublin. Staying in the city gives you a comfortable, welcoming place to recharge during your laid-back road trip in Ireland.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Dublin has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Dublin’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Ireland.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Ireland!

Day 8

Dublin - Departure day
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Molly Malone Statue
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Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Ireland is your departure day. If you’re flying home, return your rental car with time to spare.

Over a good meal, take a moment to unwind and reflect on the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip.

The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in Ireland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

How it works

Book your journey with Europe’s biggest travel platform—expert itineraries, instant confirmation, and full flexibility with 24/7 support.

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Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.

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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.

Personalize your itinerary

Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.

Easily make changes

Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.

Enjoy seamless planning

With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.

Explore with confidence

From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

Secure your spot

Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.

Get instant confirmation

Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.

Personalize your itinerary

Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.

Easily make changes

Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.

Enjoy seamless planning

With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.

Explore with confidence

From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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