9-Day Ireland Road Trip from Dublin to Kilkenny, Limerick, and Galway

Welcome to Dublin, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Ireland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 4 nights immersing yourself in Dublin's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Dublin 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 Ha'penny Bridge or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Dublin. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Ireland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dublin. 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Dublin by securing a reservation at Bastible. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Patrick Guilbaud, celebrated for its delectable modern french menu. This acclaimed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Mulligan's, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, John Kavanagh The Gravediggers is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Cassidy's also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 3 nights you have left in Dublin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Journey into the unknown at St Stephen's Green, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 29,869 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Dublin Castle is a recommended place to visit. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 31,657 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Dublin is St Patrick's Cathedral. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 21,374 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Dublin offers an experience you will remember.

Guinness Storehouse is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Dublin. This tourist attraction promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.4 out of 5 stars in 19,378 reviews.

Lastly, don't miss out on National Museum of Ireland – Decorative Arts and History. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,393 local and international travelers, it's a popular place to visit. This art museum gets closer to 313,790 visits every year.

You can learn more about Dublin today by going on a tour. Dublin offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

Dine in style at Taste Food Company, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Confession Box. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dublin.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bruxelles, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Light House Cinema is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bowe's Lounge Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Drop by the renowned National Botanic Gardens. This popular botanical garden has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,941 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Trinity College Dublin. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,087 visitors, this university deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to Book of Kells. This codex has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 13,760 reviews.

Another favorite attraction in the area is National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology, drawing over 370,965 yearly visitors. This national museum and popular place of interest enjoys a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,538 local and international travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to National Gallery of Ireland. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,801 travelers, this art gallery is an attraction many avid travelers highly recommend visiting while in Dublin.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Dublin, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Dublin below.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dublin. 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.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to The Bridge 1859, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Dame Tavern is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Mary's Bar & Hardware is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Ireland!

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dublin for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Dublinia. This much-appreciated museum is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,897 reviews.

Next up is Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. This anglican or episcopal cathedral has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,634 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Dublin Zoo. This zoo has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 25,781 reviews. Every year, 1,105,005 travelers include this attraction on their travel itinerary.

Phoenix Park is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 37,460 reviews.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Dublin has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Dublin offers and add your favorites to your Ireland travel package below.

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 and reflect on the day's adventures.

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

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at John Fallon's "The Capstan Bar", a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Dún Laoghaire, and Dundrum, 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 Kilkenny. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dún Laoghaire. This drive usually takes around 44 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Forty Foot. This promontory is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,373 reviews.

Continue your journey at People's Park. This park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,465 travelers from near and far.

Dún Laoghaire is also the home of Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,180 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Killiney Hill Park. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,391 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dundrum. This drive usually takes around 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Marlay Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,367 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Kilkenny, 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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Kilkenny. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Experience a taste of Campagne in Kilkenny by booking a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Campagne delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Langtons Hotel Kilkenny, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Sullivan's Taproom. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Kilkenny this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Dylan Whisky Bar, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Biddy Early´s offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Tynans Bridge House Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Kilkenny, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, and Cahir. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Limerick. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Drop by the renowned Kilkenny Castle. This popular schloss country house museum has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,966 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Kilkenny Castle. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,597 visitors, this schloss country house museum deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

We also recommend a visit to St Canice's Cathedral. This church has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,093 reviews.

After soaking in Kilkenny’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 48 min. When you arrive in The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make Rock of Cashel your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,650 reviews.

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 explore more of Limerick, 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Collins Bar Dooradoyle, a top-rated dining destination in Limerick. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Freddy’s Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bobby Byrne's. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Limerick this evening.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Charlie Chaplin's Pub, known for its lively atmosphere. South's Pub is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The Glen Tavern offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Limerick, and Bunratty. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Galway, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Arthur's Quay Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,231 visitors.

Next, make your way to Hunt Museum. This top attraction is an art museum with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,111 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to King John's Castle. This castle is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,790 travelers.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Bunratty. This car ride takes around 17 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,575 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.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Éan in Galway by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Éan delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Aniar, acclaimed for its delectable modern, and irish specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience. Consider reserving a table at Busker Brownes as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Galway.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Dew Drop Inn after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Freeney's Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Tigh Neachtain also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Galway, and The Municipal District of Trim. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dublin, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Eyre Square. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,318 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Spanish Arch. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 5,825 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway. This catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,704 visitors.

The Municipal District of Trim’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Galway behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 2 min. The Municipal District of Trim welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Trim Castle. This much-appreciated castle is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 6,224 reviews.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dublin. 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.

Dine in style at The Stags Head, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Chapter One Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Bank on College Green. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dublin.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

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

Make the most of your final day in Ireland by visiting Dublin’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Ireland.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Molly Malone Statue. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 11,943 visitors.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Quays, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Keoghs Cafe offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Café en Seine.

You’ll then say farewell to Dublin. 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!