One-Week Ireland Road Trip from Dublin traveling south to Kilkenny and Cork

Welcome to Dublin, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Ireland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Dublin's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Dublin 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 Ha'penny Bridge or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Dublin. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

This popular restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. With a recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed. Don’t miss out on dining at Merchant's Arch, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Brazen Head, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Stags Head. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Light House Cinema, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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

Day 2 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.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Phoenix Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 37,298 reviews.

Dublin Zoo is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,663 reviews. The attraction welcomes 1,105,005 visitors every year.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Dublin Castle. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 31,463 reviews.

Molly Malone Statue is another outstanding experience in Dublin. Around 11,774 travelers have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Book of Kells is not far away. This codex is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,299 reviews. The attraction gets an estimated 1,105,005 visitors every year.

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.

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

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous 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.

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

Day 3 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dublin for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Drop by the renowned National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology. This popular national museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,321 visitors. Based on recent data, this attraction is visited by more than 370,965 travelers every year.

Another unforgettable place to experience is St Stephen's Green. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,521 visitors, this park deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to St Patrick's Cathedral. This anglican or episcopal cathedral has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 21,169 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is Guinness Storehouse. This tourist attraction and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,154 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to National Botanic Gardens. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,718 travelers, this botanical garden is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Dublin.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Dublin, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Dublin below.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. This venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Located in the heart of the city, is an ideal pick for cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar, a top-rated dining spot in Dublin. If you're in the mood for something new, try Mr Fox, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Porterhouse Temple Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dublin.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Ireland.

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 Kilkenny, Wicklow, The Municipal District of Bray, and Enniskerry. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kilkenny, where you will stay for 1 night.

Journey into the unknown at Kilkenny Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable schloss country house museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,743 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Kilkenny Castle is a recommended place to visit. This schloss country house museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,458 reviews.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Wicklow Mountains National Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,575 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Kilkenny. Kilkenny 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.

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

This local establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Known as a top-rated , it's a top choice in the city. Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Billy Byrnes Gastro Bar & Venue, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Langtons Hotel Kilkenny? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Italian Connection as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Kilkenny.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Biddy Early´s, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Tynans Bridge House Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Ryans Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Carrigtwohill, Midleton, and Cobh. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cork, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

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 14 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Fota Wildlife Park. This zoo is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,379 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Midleton, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Carrigtwohill may take around 14 min. Upon your arrival in Carrigtwohill, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Drop by the renowned Jameson Distillery Midleton. This popular point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,546 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.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. This acclaimed -recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. With a recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure. Dine in style at The Woodford, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Izz Cafe boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Liberty Grill. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Cork.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Shelbourne Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Oval is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting.

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

Wake up to day 6 of your extraordinary road trip in Ireland. With 1 night left in Cork, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cork and set your GPS to Killarney. 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 13 min. Upon reaching Killarney, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Ross Castle. This extraordinary castle has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,141 visitors.

Next, make your way to Muckross Abbey. This abbey is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,866 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Killarney, 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 Cork to Killarney may take around 1 hour 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Killarney, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Muckross House. This extraordinary house is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,388 visitors.

Next, make your way to Killarney National Park. This top attraction is a park with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 10,587 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Torc Mountain. This mountain is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,640 travelers.

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

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

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Luigi Malones Cork, a highly-rated dining destination in Cork. If you're eager to try something different, consider Costigan's Pub, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hayfield Manor Hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cork this evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Cork, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, Blarney, and Cahir. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dublin. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cahir, 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 Cork to Cahir may take around 1 hour 4 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Cahir, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Fitzgerald's Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,170 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Cahir, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel. Your travel time is around 17 min.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Rock of Cashel, a remarkable castle where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,510 reviews.

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

As you explore more of Dublin, 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 The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Dublin. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Experience a taste of Dublin at PHX Bistro, 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 The Vintage Kitchen. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Dublin tonight.

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

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

As your final day in Ireland unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Dublin’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Ireland. Keep the spirit of your trip to Ireland alive with these special souvenirs.

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

Celebrated as a restaurant, it boasts an exceptional menu. This establishment consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Nestled in the city's heart, is a perfect choice for discerning cuisine enthusiasts seeking a new experience. If you're eager to try something different, consider Murray’s Pub, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Dublin. 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!