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

On day 2 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.

Whether you decide to explore Dublin on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Make sure to visit Grafton Street, a popular street in Dublin. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner.

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

Next, check out Dublin Castle, one of the most popular places to see in Dublin. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, St Patrick's Cathedral. Wander around and soak in the stunning atmosphere this church offers. Then, head to Phoenix Park, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your day.

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.

For an unforgettable shopping experience, visit Grafton Street, the top shopping destination in Dublin. Browse local boutique shops and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Grafton Street has to offer, including cafes, attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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 Dublin, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Taste Food Company, a popular restaurant in Dublin. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dublin at Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated The Confession Box. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Dublin tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bruxelles stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Light House Cinema offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Bowe's Lounge Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Cork. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Cork, where you'll spend 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cork. This car ride takes around 2 hours 51 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Shandon Bells & Tower St Anne's Church, a curiosity-inducing church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Cork Opera House and admire its instagrammable features.

When you’re ready, continue to Crawford Art Gallery, a frequently visited art gallery beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on St Patrick's Bridge, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Woodford, a highly-rated dining destination in Cork. If you're eager to try something different, consider Greenes Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Izz Cafe. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cork this evening.

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

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

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Cork, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Cork, Blarney, and Ballincollig.

Make time for Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral, an increasingly popular church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Fitzgerald's Park, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Cork City Gaol. This museum is one of the city’s most beloved spots.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Blarney. This car ride takes around 10 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Blarney is Blarney Stone, an up-and-coming monument that draws attention for its picture-perfect features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Blarney Castle & Gardens, a romantic castle that stands out in the city.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Blarney, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Ballincollig. This drive usually takes around 15 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Regional Park Ballincollig. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the park before you continue to your next stop.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Liberty Grill offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Canty's Bar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cork.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

On day 5 of your road trip in Ireland, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Killarney are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Killarney, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Cork and set your GPS to Killarney. 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 13 min. Upon reaching Killarney, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Ross Castle, a frequently visited castle that everyone visiting Killarney should see.

When you’ve had your share of Cork, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Killarney. Your travel time is around 1 hour 13 min.

Savor the day by heading to Muckross House, a locally appreciated museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Killarney National Park, where you can soak in the standout surroundings.

Next, explore Torc Mountain, yet another beloved place to see in the area.

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

Killarney 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 Killarney.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Malarkey, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Mad Monk by Quinlans offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Vendricks Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Killarney.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, John M. Reidy stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Courtney's Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Jimmy Brien's is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Greet day 6 of your road trip in Ireland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Killarney, 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 Kenmare and Portmagee.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Killarney, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kenmare. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 31 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Kenmare is Cromwell Point Lighthouse, an intriguing lighthouse that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to The Valentia Island Tetrapod Footprints, a history-steeped archeological site that stands out in the region.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Kerry Cliffs (aillte Chiarraí), a curiosity-inducing cliff that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Cúm An Easpaig (cliff View), a nearby cliff, highly recommended by other travelers.

Portmagee welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre, an underrated visitor center that everyone visiting Portmagee should see.

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

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 Killarney, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Killarney Royal Hotel, an iconic dining spot in Killarney. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony, a popular restaurant in Killarney. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Curious Cat Café, a hidden gem nestled in Killarney. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

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

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

Savor the day by heading to Cliffs Of Moher, a captivating cliff that draws visitors from near and far.

Galway’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Killarney behind. This drive usually takes around 8 min. Galway welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway, a locally appreciated church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Eyre Square and admire its respected features.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Galway, 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 Galway's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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 The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro, 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 Busker Brownes, a hidden gem nestled in Galway. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Dew Drop Inn offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Freeney's Bar is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Tigh Neachtain is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your road trip in Ireland. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dublin, where will spend 1 night.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure.

Our first attraction recommendation in Dublin is Walled Victorian Garden, a curiosity-inducing botanical garden that draws attention for its serene features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, a history-steeped monastery that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Ionad Cultúrtha A Phiarsaigh, Conamara, a frequently visited cultural center that offers a unique experience.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Dublin. Dublin 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 Dublin's best restaurants.

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.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!