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

Day 2 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring what to see in Dublin. You have 1 night left in Dublin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Grafton Street, a street that captures the true essence of Dublin. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Experience St Stephen's Green, an interesting park in the city. Then, head to Book Of Kells and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Dublin, and when you are ready for more, go to Dublin Castle. This is one of the city’s most locally renowned historic spots of interest. After exploring the castle, visit the captivating St Patrick's Cathedral. Not far away, you'll also find Phoenix Park. This park is a serene highlight in Dublin.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Taste Food Company, a top-rated dining spot in Dublin. If you're in the mood for something new, try Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Confession Box. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dublin.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bruxelles after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Light House Cinema, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Bowe's Lounge Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Cork. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Cork, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Shandon Bells & Tower St Anne's Church is an ideal stop early in the day. This up-and-coming church is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Cork Opera House, which may be one of the most romantic places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Dublin on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Crawford Art Gallery, a curiosity-inducing art gallery in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for St Patrick's Bridge.

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.

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

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Impala, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Shelbourne Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, The Oval also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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

Whatever your travel style is, Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral is an essential stop in Cork. This frequently visited church provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Fitzgerald's Park, a serene park, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Cork City Gaol, an increasingly popular museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the underrated Blarney Stone. Not far away from the monument, you will find the history-steeped Regional Park Ballincollig, perfect for a quick visit. Round off your day at Blarney Castle & Gardens, another gem in Cork with enchanting features to discover.

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

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

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

Say good night to Cork and look forward to another great day of your road trip 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.

Ross Castle is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This breathtaking castle is sure to impress. Next on your list is Muckross House, another must-visit landmark and beloved museum renowned for its breathtaking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Cork by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Killarney National Park. This eye-catching national park is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cork experience. We also recommend visiting Torc Mountain, an increasingly popular 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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Malarkey, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Mad Monk by Quinlans offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Vendricks Restaurant. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Killarney.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into John M. Reidy. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Courtney's Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Jimmy Brien's, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 6 of your road trip in Ireland, you’ll start and end your day in Killarney, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the town. Since you still have 1 night to spend in Killarney, there’s no need to rush. Experience Kenmare and Portmagee to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Catch Cromwell Point Lighthouse before the crowds roll in. This enchanting lighthouse is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the stunning features of The Valentia Island Tetrapod Footprints, a must-visit archeological site in the region.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre, a beloved visitor center. For a change of scene, check out Kerry Cliffs (aillte Chiarraí), known for its eye-catching features. We also recommend visiting Cúm An Easpaig (cliff View). This cliff is a must for anyone looking to experience the region to the fullest.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Killarney Royal Hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Killarney. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Curious Cat Café. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Killarney.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Galway. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Galway, where you'll spend 1 night.

Cliffs Of Moher makes a great addition to your morning plans. This locally renowned cliff is a mesmerizing place to see in Killarney. Continue your discovery at Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway, a historic church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Killarney, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Eyre Square. This interesting public square offers a symbolic encounter with Killarney. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Killarney.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Front Door Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Galway. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Busker Brownes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Galway this evening.

Keep the evening going at The Dew Drop Inn, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Freeney's Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tigh Neachtain, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dublin, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make time for Walled Victorian Garden, an intriguing botanical garden that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Ionad Cultúrtha A Phiarsaigh, Conamara. This cultural center is one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots.

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 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Brazen Head, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Bewley's Grafton Street? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Bridge 1859, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Dame Tavern, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Mary's Bar & Hardware likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!