9-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork traveling east to Kilkenny and Dublin

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Glanmire. You’ll stay in Cork for 1 night.

Munster Technological University leaves a lasting impression. This astronomical observatory is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Cork. Next, head to Fitzgerald's Park, a curiosity-inducing park, known for its serene 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 Cork City Gaol. This photogenic museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Blarney Castle & Gardens and Blarney Stone. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Ireland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Shop 'til you drop at Cork's premier shopping hotspot, Douglas Farmers' Market! Elevate your style by browsing through shops, filled with unique finds. Keep an eye out for artisan crafts, perfect as cherished mementos. Douglas Farmers' Market also offers more, including attractions, key services, and exciting local experiences to round out your visit.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Goldie in Cork by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Goldie delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, acclaimed for its delectable japanese specialties. This local Bib Gourmand establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 places, which are Carrigtwohill, Midleton, and Kilkenny. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kilkenny, where will spend 1 night.

To truly experience Cork, make sure to drop by Fota Wildlife Park. This interesting wildlife reserve is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Midleton Distillery Experience, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Kilkenny Castle, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Cork. This park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Kilkenny Castle. Wander around and soak in the enchanting atmosphere this castle offers.

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

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Kilkenny by reserving a table at Campagne. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. Looking for something different? Langtons Hotel Kilkenny offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Kilkenny.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Dylan Whisky Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Biddy Early´s, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Tynans Bridge House Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Ireland, your travel plans include 5 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Laragh, Wicklow, The Municipal District of Bray, Enniskerry, and Dundrum are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dublin, where you will stay for 4 nights.

Enjoy all that Glendalough Cathedral has to offer. This is an underrated church you should not miss. Another must-see is Wicklow Mountains National Park, an underrated national park in Kilkenny.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Powerscourt Waterfall. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Powerscourt House & Gardens, another of the village’s often recommended attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Marlay Park, a visually striking place of interest in the village.

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

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

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Dublin by securing a table at Bastible. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Patrick Guilbaud, famous for its scrumptious modern french dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Dublin. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Mulligan's, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, John Kavanagh The Gravediggers provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cassidy's offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Day 5 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Dublin. You have 3 nights left in Dublin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Guinness Storehouse makes a great addition to your morning plans. This locally renowned brewery is a historic place to see in Dublin. Continue your discovery at St Patrick's Cathedral, a culturally significant church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Dublin, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Dublin Castle. This interesting castle offers a respected encounter with Dublin. Next, make your way to Molly Malone Statue to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Book Of Kells, a captivating museum that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Dublin.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Ireland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Dublin 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 Dublin.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Taste Food Company, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Confession Box. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dublin.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bruxelles is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Light House Cinema, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bowe's Lounge Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Dublin.

One of the most iconic spots you can visit today 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.

No visit to Dublin is complete without Phoenix Park. This captivating park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Dublin Zoo, 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 Ha'penny Bridge. This notable monument is a traveler-favorite.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Ireland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Savor the flavors at The Brazen Head, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Bewley's Grafton Street beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dublin tonight.

Continue your lively evening at The Bridge 1859, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Dame Tavern is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Mary's Bar & Hardware ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Day 7 offers an itinerary packed with the best things to see in Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A top thing to do today is to explore Grafton Street, a must-see street in Dublin. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Enjoy all that St Stephen's Green has to offer. This is a captivating park you should not miss. Another must-see is National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, a well-known 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 notable attractions.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in Ireland. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at SOLE Seafood & Grill, a highly-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kehoes Pub, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Cobblestone. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", where the evening is just getting started.

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

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel and Cahir. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Cork, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Brú Ború Heritage Centre is must-visit cultural center and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Rock Of Cashel, an interesting castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Cahir Castle, a picture-perfect castle, 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 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 highly-rated dining destination in Cork. If you're eager to try something different, consider Ziggys Bar, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Luigi Malones Cork. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cork this evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in Ireland.