Relaxed 9-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork to Dublin

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you’ll explore the area around Cork, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Cork will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Ireland.

Make a stop at Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral. This worthwhile church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Elizabeth Fort located in Cork for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Crawford Art Gallery. Its noteworthy features will captivate you. After the art gallery, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Cork Opera House. Visitors usually appreciate the picture-perfect features of this opera house.

After soaking in Cork’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Glanmire. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 14 min. When you arrive in Glanmire, it's time to take a break from the road.

Savor the day by heading to Munster Technological University, a frequently visited astronomical observatory that draws visitors from near and far.

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

Exploring the food culture in Cork offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Ziggys Bar? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Luigi Malones Cork as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cork.

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

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Cork as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Ireland!

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Ireland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Dublin. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Dublin. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Dublin!

Whether you decide to explore Dublin on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit O'Connell Street, a popular street in Dublin. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner. You can also explore Temple Bar today, a neighborhood that’s well worth a visit.

Start your day at Phoenix Park. This mesmerizing park is a locally renowned place to see in Dublin. Then, wander over to Dublin Zoo. If mesmerizing sites excite you, this zoo will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Ha'penny Bridge. This visually striking monument is a favorite among visitors.

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.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Taste Food Company, a top-rated dining spot in Dublin. If you're in the mood for something new, try Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Confession Box. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dublin.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Dublin.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bruxelles, known for its lively atmosphere. Light House Cinema is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Bowe's Lounge Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Dublin can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Ireland!

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland, you’ll go deep into Dublin, where you'll stay for 2 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Dublin, and meet locals along the way!

Set aside time today to explore Grafton Street, a standout street that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Whatever your travel style is, St Stephen's Green is an essential stop in Dublin. This interesting park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, an instagrammable museum, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to National Gallery Of Ireland, an interesting art gallery. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the captivating National Botanic Gardens.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Cork. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Cork that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Ireland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Dublin to find the best options for you!

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Dublin. The bars in Dublin make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Bridge 1859 is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Dame Tavern, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Mary's Bar & Hardware. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Ireland!

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

No visit to Dublin is complete without Guinness Storehouse. This well-known brewery is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to St Patrick's Cathedral, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Dublin, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Dublin Castle. This locally renowned castle is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Molly Malone Statue, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Book Of Kells is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Ireland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Dublin offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the food culture in Dublin offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at SOLE Seafood & Grill, a popular restaurant in Dublin. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dublin at Kehoes Pub, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated The Cobblestone. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Dublin tonight.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Dublin.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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

Day 8 of your self-drive tour in Ireland offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Kilkenny and end it in Cork. You’ll stay in Cork for 1 night. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Ireland.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Kilkenny.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Kilkenny. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 34 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Kilkenny Castle, an interesting park that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Kilkenny Castle and admire its romantic features.

When you’re ready, continue to St Canice's Cathedral, an increasingly popular church beloved by locals and tourists alike.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Ireland as you make your way to Cork. 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 Cork, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Imperial Hotel & SPA, a top-rated dining destination in Cork. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Tony's Bistro, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Costigan's Pub. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cork this evening.

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.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Kilkenny can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Ireland!