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

On day 2 of your road trip in Ireland, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Cork and Blarney are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Galway, where you will stay for 3 nights.

Let Cork Opera House set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this romantic opera house before continuing your journey. Fitzgerald's Park is your next stop. This up-and-coming park is one of the best-rated sights in Cork.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Cork City Gaol. This heritage-rich museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Blarney Castle & Gardens and Blarney Stone.

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

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.

Start your culinary exploration in Galway by securing a reservation at Éan. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Aniar, celebrated for its delectable modern and irish menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

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.

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

Greet day 3 of your road trip in Ireland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 2 nights to stay in Galway, 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 Bunratty.

Make time for Cliffs Of Moher, a locally renowned cliff that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Aillwee Cave, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Poulnabrone Dolmen. This archeological site is one of the village’s most worthwhile spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Galway at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Bunratty Castle & Folk Park.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Apoema Bistro, a top-rated dining spot in Galway. If you're in the mood for something new, try Finnegans, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Gemelle's. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Galway.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Crane Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to O'connor's Famous Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Sally Longs Rock Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Ireland.

On day 4 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Kinvarra. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Galway, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Awaiting your discovery is the often recommended Walled Victorian Garden, a mesmerizing botanical garden in Galway. Next, go to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden.

After visiting Walled Victorian Garden and Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, have a stroll along Galway's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Connemara National Park. This enchanting national park offers a unique experience. Dunguaire Castle is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Galleon Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in Galway. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of John Keogh's Gastropub, a popular restaurant in Galway. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of RÉ NAO, a hidden gem nestled in Galway. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Garavan's Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Caribou offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Tonerys Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable 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.

Your itinerary for day 5 of your road trip in Ireland includes 1 stop and features some of the highlights of Galway. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Limerick, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Eyre Square brings Galway's character to life. This heritage-rich public square is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway, another historic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Spanish Arch, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its historic features.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Limerick. Limerick offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go 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 Limerick, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Collins Bar Dooradoyle, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Freddy’s Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bobby Byrne's. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Limerick tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Charlie Chaplin's Pub offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, South's Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. The Glen Tavern is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Limerick. You’ll stay in Limerick for 1 night.

Treaty Stone brings Limerick's character to life. This symbolic monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy King John's Castle, another historic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Saint Mary's Cathedral, one of the city’s most beloved attractions, known for its breathtaking features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Hunt Museum. This heritage-rich museum is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Arthur's Quay Park, a worthwhile park, and take a stroll around the area.

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 Limerick. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Old Quarter GastroPub, a top-rated dining destination in Limerick. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cornstore Limerick, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Taikichi. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Limerick this evening.

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

As the sun sets, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Ireland.

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 Killarney. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Killarney, where will spend 1 night.

Make a stop at Ross Castle. This often recommended castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Muckross Abbey located in Limerick for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Muckross House. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Killarney National Park. Visitors usually appreciate the eye-catching features of this national park. Next up is Torc Mountain, a highly recommended waterfall.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Malarkey, a top-rated dining spot in Killarney. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Mad Monk by Quinlans, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Vendricks Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Killarney.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to John M. Reidy, known for its inviting atmosphere. Courtney's Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Jimmy Brien's provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you'll explore 3 destinations, including Kinsale, Carrigtwohill, and Cobh. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cork, where you'll spend 1 night.

Check out the locally appreciated castle, Charles Fort. Afterward, continue to Fota Wildlife Park, a wildlife reserve every traveler should visit. As you explore Killarney’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town.

Next, make your way to Titanic Experience Cobh. This increasingly popular museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Spike Island Tours Cobh, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

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.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Cork by booking a table at Goldie, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional seafood menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, renowned for its delectable japanese dishes. This Bib Gourmand restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday.

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