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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Carrigtwohill, Midleton, and Kilkenny. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Kilkenny, where you'll spend 1 night.

Set your GPS to Carrigtwohill and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 21 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Carrigtwohill beckons with new experiences!

Fota Wildlife Park is a well-known wildlife reserve we recommend visiting today. Discover its idyllic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Our first attraction recommendation in Midleton is Midleton Distillery Experience, an often recommended distillery that draws attention for its visually striking features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Kilkenny, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Midleton to Kilkenny may take around 1 hour 47 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kilkenny, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Kilkenny Castle, a captivating park in Kilkenny. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Kilkenny Castle. This well-known castle is a top recommendation in the area.

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

Kilkenny 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 Kilkenny.

Begin your culinary exploration in Kilkenny by securing a reservation at Campagne. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. Or, for a change of pace, Langtons Hotel Kilkenny boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Dylan Whisky Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Biddy Early´s is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Tynans Bridge House Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Your itinerary for day 4 of your road trip in Ireland includes 5 stops and features some of the highlights of Laragh, Wicklow, The Municipal District of Bray, Enniskerry, and Dundrum. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dublin, where you'll spend 4 nights.

Wicklow’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Laragh behind. This drive usually takes around 31 min. Wicklow welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Glendalough Cathedral. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the church before you continue to your next stop.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Wicklow, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Laragh to Wicklow may take around 31 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Wicklow, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Wicklow Mountains National Park and explore the eye-catching features.

Set your GPS to The Municipal District of Bray and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. The Municipal District of Bray beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Powerscourt Waterfall and explore the stunning features.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dublin. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Bastible in Dublin by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 1-star Michelin status, Bastible offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Patrick Guilbaud, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern french cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Keep the evening going at Mulligan's, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to John Kavanagh The Gravediggers, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Cassidy's, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Dublin.

Guinness Storehouse leaves a lasting impression. This brewery is one of the most notable places to visit in Dublin. Next, head to St Patrick's Cathedral, an interesting church, known for its monumental 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 Dublin Castle. This culturally significant castle is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Molly Malone Statue and Book Of Kells 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.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Taste Food Company, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Confession Box. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

Day 6 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in 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 thing to do today is to explore O'Connell Street, a must-see street in Dublin. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area. You can also visit Temple Bar, an ideal neighborhood for continued sightseeing.

Make a stop at Phoenix Park. This well-known park is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Dublin Zoo located in Dublin for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Ha'penny Bridge. Its visually striking features will captivate you.

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.

Dine in style at The Brazen Head, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Bewley's Grafton Street boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dublin.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Bridge 1859. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Dame Tavern offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Mary's Bar & Hardware, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 7 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 1 night.

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.

To truly experience Dublin, make sure to drop by St Stephen's Green. This locally renowned park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out National Gallery Of Ireland, one of the most popular places to see in Dublin. This art gallery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, National Botanic Gardens. Wander around and soak in the mesmerizing atmosphere this botanical garden offers.

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 wonderful meal at SOLE Seafood & Grill, a top-rated dining spot in Dublin. If you're in the mood for something new, try Kehoes Pub, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Cobblestone. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dublin.

Continue your lively evening at John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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

On day 8 of your road trip in Ireland, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel and Cahir are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cork, where you will stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel. This car ride takes around 1 hour 52 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel is Brú Ború Heritage Centre, an underrated cultural center that draws attention for its respected features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Rock Of Cashel, a picture-perfect castle that stands out in the town.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Cahir. This drive usually takes around 17 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Cahir Castle, an up-and-coming castle that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is The Vee Pass. Spend some time admiring the serene features of the mountain range before you continue to your next stop.

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

Don’t miss out on dining 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.

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.