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

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Ireland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Ballincollig. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Ballincollig. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the town. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Ballincollig!

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Cork, including a park, a museum, a castle, a monument and much more! Start your adventure at Regional Park Ballincollig. This locally appreciated park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Fitzgerald's Park located in Cork for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Cork City Gaol. Its photogenic features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Blarney Castle & Gardens. Visitors usually appreciate the enchanting features of this castle. Next up is Blarney Stone, a highly recommended monument.

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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Cork by securing a table at Goldie. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, famous for its scrumptious japanese dishes. This Bib Gourmand venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.

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

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

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Cork and visit amazing attractions in Cork and Glanmire destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Cork. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral. This underrated church is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Elizabeth Fort, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Crawford Art Gallery, one of the most often recommended places to see in Cork. This art gallery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Cork Opera House. Wander around and soak in the eye-catching atmosphere this opera house offers. Then, head to Munster Technological University, a top-rated astronomical observatory that adds another dimension to your day.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, a popular restaurant in Cork. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cork at Ziggys Bar, 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 Luigi Malones Cork. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cork tonight.

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 Cork. The bars in Cork make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

On day 4 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Ireland. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Ireland.

Today's adventure in Cork promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Cahir Castle. This breathtaking castle is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Rock Of Cashel, another stunning attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Marlay Park, one of the town’s most increasingly popular attractions, known for its scenic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Killiney Hill Park. This mesmerizing park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit People's Park, an up-and-coming park, and take a stroll around the area.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Dublin. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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 Dublin.

Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Dublin by reserving a table at Bastible. Renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant, it offers an exceptional modern menu. For a different taste experience, head to Patrick Guilbaud, recognized for its delicious modern french dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently impresses guests, ensuring a memorable addition to your holiday. Looking for another option? Make sure to visit Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a local favorite known for its delightful modern cuisine in Dublin. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant with 2 Michelin star is an ideal choice for discerning modern foodies seeking culinary excellence.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Mulligan's, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to John Kavanagh The Gravediggers. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Cassidy's, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Ireland!

On day 5 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland, you’ll go deep into Dublin, where you'll stay for 3 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!

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Dublin is O'Connell Street. Allow yourself some time to explore this street and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Temple Bar, a neighborhood that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Dublin, including a park, a zoo, and a monument. Start your day with a visit to Phoenix Park. This well-known park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Dublin Zoo, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Dublin on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Ha'penny Bridge, a popular monument in the city.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Taste Food Company, an iconic dining spot in Dublin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, a popular restaurant in Dublin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Confession Box, a hidden gem nestled in Dublin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Dublin. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bruxelles, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Light House Cinema, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bowe's Lounge Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

Grafton Street is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Dublin. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.

Get ready for an exciting day in Dublin. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a museum, an art gallery, a botanical garden and much more! Begin your adventure at St Stephen's Green. This is a notable park you should not miss. Another must-see is National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, a captivating museum in Dublin.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to National Gallery Of Ireland. From there, take a leisurely stroll to National Botanic Gardens, another of the city’s well-known attractions.

Ireland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Ireland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

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 Dublin.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Brazen Head, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bewley's Grafton Street? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Ireland.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Bridge 1859 stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Dame Tavern offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Mary's Bar & Hardware is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Ireland!

Day 7 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!

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots in Dublin. Begin your sightseeing with 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 well-known 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.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Dublin. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Dublin 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!

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.

Dine in style at SOLE Seafood & Grill, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kehoes Pub boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Cobblestone. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dublin.

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.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar". This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

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

Day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Ireland is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Cork for 1 night.

Today’s agenda in Dublin includes a park, a castle, and a church. Kilkenny Castle is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Kilkenny Castle, a notable castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to St Canice's Cathedral, an awe-inspiring church, also available for your discovery today.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Cork in this laid-back road trip in Ireland. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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 Cork, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Imperial Hotel & SPA, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Tony's Bistro? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Costigan's Pub as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cork.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Cork. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Cork!