9-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork to Killarney, Dingle, and Galway

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photo of view of Row home and cathedral in Cobh, Ireland.
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Explore the best of Ireland on a remarkable 9-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Cork, Blarney, Killarney, Dingle, Dunquin, and Galway.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in Ireland. You will spend 3 nights in Cork, 2 nights in Killarney, 2 nights in Dingle, and 1 night in Galway. 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 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 Eyre Square are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Blarney Castle & Gardens, learn more about the unique Killarney National Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Muckross House.

As you hit the open road and drive through Cork, Blarney, Killarney, Dingle, Dunquin, and Galway, 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, accommodations, 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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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day 1

Day 1

  • Cork - Arrival day
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  • National Monument - Cork
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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 here for 2 nights and explore what to see in Cork, 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 National Monument, or just taking a stroll in the city center. 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 Cork. 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 Cork, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Woodford, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Greenes Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Izz Cafe as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cork.

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.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Ireland!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Cork
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Drive 25 km, 1 hour 30 min

  • Fitzgerald's Park
  • Cork Public Museum
  • Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral
  • Crawford Art Gallery
  • Blarney Stone
  • Blarney Castle & Gardens
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On day 2 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Cork and Blarney. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Cork, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Awaiting your discovery is the up-and-coming Fitzgerald's Park, an instagrammable park in Cork. Next, go to Cork Public Museum.

After visiting Fitzgerald's Park and Cork Public Museum, have a stroll along Cork's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral. This stunning church offers a unique experience. Crawford Art Gallery is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Blarney Stone, one of the most culturally significant places to visit in Cork. If you still have some time left for sightseeing, we also recommend stopping by Blarney Castle & Gardens.

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

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 Cork, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, a top-rated dining destination in Cork. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Liberty Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Canty's Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cork this evening.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Cork
  • Killarney
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Drive 122 km, 2 hours 42 min

  • Ross Castle
  • Muckross House
  • Killarney National Park
  • Torc Mountain
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On day 3 of your road trip in Ireland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Killarney are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Killarney, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Ross Castle is must-visit castle and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Muckross House, an underrated museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Killarney National Park, a mesmerizing national park, also available for your discovery today.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Killarney. Killarney offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Killarney's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Don’t miss out on dining at Malarkey, a top-rated dining destination in Killarney. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Mad Monk by Quinlans, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Vendricks Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Killarney this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at John M. Reidy after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Courtney's Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Jimmy Brien's is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Ireland!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Killarney
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Drive 37 km, 1 hour 4 min

  • Head of the Gap of Dunloe
  • Gap of Dunloe
  • Wishing Bridge
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On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Killarney, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate town, including Kenmare.

Catch Head Of The Gap Of Dunloe before the crowds roll in. This eye-catching hiking area is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the peaceful features of Gap Of Dunloe, a must-visit canyon in the region.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Wishing Bridge, a frequently visited point of interest.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Killarney. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Killarney Royal Hotel, a top-rated dining destination in Killarney. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Curious Cat Café. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Killarney this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub is an excellent place to start.

Say good night to Killarney and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Ireland!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Killarney
  • Dingle
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Drive 68 km, 1 hour 40 min

  • Kingdom Falconry
  • Dingle Distillery
  • Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Dingle. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Dingle, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Enjoy all that Inch Beach, Co. Kerry has to offer. This is a worthwhile beach you should not miss. Another must-see is Kingdom Falconry, an underrated bird watching area in Killarney.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Dingle Distillery. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, another of the town’s intriguing attractions.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dingle. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the town.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Dingle
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Drive 82 km, 1 hour 59 min

  • Brandon Point
  • Conor Pass waterfall
  • Conor Pass
  • Coumeenoole
  • Cé Dhún Chaoin / Dunquin Pier
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Greet day 6 of your road trip in Ireland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Dingle, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Kenmare and Dunquin.

Brandon Point is must-visit cliff and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Conor Pass Waterfall, an up-and-coming waterfall, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Conor Pass, an eye-catching cliff, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Dingle. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the curiosity-inducing Coumeenoole. If you’re looking for more, Cé Dhún Chaoin / Dunquin Pier is also an underrated attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Dingle's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Ireland!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Dingle
  • Galway
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Drive 256 km, 3 hours 44 min

  • Galway City Museum
  • The Latin Quarter
  • Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway
  • Eyre Square
  • More

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 1 place, which are Galway. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Galway, where will spend 1 night.

No visit to Dingle is complete without Galway City Museum. This intriguing museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to The Latin Quarter, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Dingle, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway. This curiosity-inducing church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Eyre Square, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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

Galway is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Galway.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Front Door Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Busker Brownes. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Galway.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Dew Drop Inn, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Freeney's Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Tigh Neachtain offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Say good night to Galway and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Ireland!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Galway
  • Cork
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Drive 267 km, 4 hours 28 min

  • Aillwee Cave
  • Cliffs of Moher
  • Burren National Park
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When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Cork, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Aillwee Cave leaves a lasting impression. This cave is one of the most up-and-coming places to visit in Galway. Next, head to Cliffs Of Moher, a notable cliff, known for its eye-catching features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Burren National Park. This scenic national park is a highly recommended experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Cork. Cork offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, a top-rated dining destination in Cork. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Ziggys Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Luigi Malones Cork. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cork this evening.

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

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Cork - Departure day
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  • Cork City Gaol
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Day 9 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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Cork City Gaol. This often recommended museum is a hotspot among locals.

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

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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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.

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

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