9-Day Ireland Road Trip from Cork traveling west to Limerick, Galway, Killarney, and Dingle

Welcome to Cork, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Ireland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Cork's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Cork is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out St Patrick's Bridge or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Cork. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Ireland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cork. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Goldie, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an exceptional seafood menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby Bib Gourmand-awardee, Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, known for its delicious japanese cuisine. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Liberty Grill. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Cork tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Shelbourne Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Oval offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife.

Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Ireland!

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Cork, Glanmire, and Blarney, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Limerick. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cork and set your GPS to Limerick. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 19 min. Upon reaching Limerick, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

When you're ready to see some sights, Fitzgerald's Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,170 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Cork City Gaol. This prison has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,919 travelers.

When you arrive in Glanmire, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready to see some sights, Munster Technological University is a great place to start. This technological university is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,397 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Limerick, 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 Limerick. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Don’t miss out on dining at Collins Bar Dooradoyle, a top-rated dining destination in Limerick. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bobby Byrne's, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Old Quarter GastroPub. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Limerick this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at South's Pub. Alternatively, go to The Glen Tavern, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Red Hen provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Bunratty. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Galway, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Make Cliffs of Moher one of your first sightseeing stops in Bunratty. Rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 32,664 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Poulnabrone dolmen is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This dolmen is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,978 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Aillwee Cave. This show cave has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,904 visitors.

Set your GPS to Bunratty and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 18 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bunratty beckons with new experiences!

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Shannon Heritage. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 256 visitors.

When you’re finished at Shannon Heritage, head to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,442 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Galway. Galway offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Galway. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Front Door Pub, 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 O'Connell's Bar Galway, 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 Zappis Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Galway. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Tigh Neachtain is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Crane Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is O'Connor's Famous Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Galway, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Take the opportunity to see Connemara National Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,644 visitors.

Walled Victorian Garden is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,338 travelers.

Kinvarra is also the home of Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden. Around 13,674 people have rated this cafe an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

After soaking in Kinvarra’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Galway. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 31 min. When you arrive in Galway, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Dunguaire Castle. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 4,855 visitors.

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.

Dine in style at A Púcán, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Skeff Bar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Kai Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Galway.

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

Relax and reminisce about your day in Ireland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 5 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Galway. You have 1 night left in Galway. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Galway Atlantaquaria, National Aquarium of Ireland. This extraordinary aquarium is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,396 visitors.

Next, make your way to Spanish Arch. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,753 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Eyre Square. This square is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,114 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,556 travelers.

Your discoveries in Galway do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Galway on this day of your trip. You can select your tours below.

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

Don’t miss out on dining at The Dáil Bar Galway, a top-rated dining destination in Galway. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Scotty's Burgers & Wings, Galway, Ireland. , another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Quays Bar and Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Galway this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Tigh Chóilí.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Killarney and Limerick. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Killarney, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Muckross Abbey. This abbey is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,866 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Killarney, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

As you explore more of Killarney, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Make sure to book a table at The Mad Monk by Quinlans, a popular restaurant in Killarney. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Killarney at Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is The Shire Bar & Cafe. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Killarney tonight.

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.

Say good night to Killarney and look forward to another great day 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 3 vibrant destinations - Dingle, Killarney, and Dunquin. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dingle. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Make Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium one of your first sightseeing stops in Dingle. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,093 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Ross Castle. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 7,141 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dingle, 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 Dingle.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu.

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

On day 8 of your road trip in Ireland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Kinsale, Carrigtwohill, and Cobh. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cork, where you will stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dingle, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kinsale. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 22 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Drop by the renowned Charles Fort. This popular fort has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,418 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Kinsale, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Carrigtwohill may take around 43 min. Upon your arrival in Carrigtwohill, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Fota Wildlife Park. This zoo is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Carrigtwohill, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,379 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Cork. Cork offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Luigi Malones Cork, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Costigan's Pub is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Hayfield Manor Hotel. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cork tonight.

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

Day 9 of your road trip in Ireland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cork before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

As your final day in Ireland unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Cork’s best shopping location. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Ireland. Keep the spirit of your trip to Ireland alive with these special souvenirs.

Before you conclude your road trip in Ireland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cork.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at White Rabbit Bar & BBQ, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The SpitJack Cork? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Cork. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Ireland!