9-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin to Sligo and Carlingford and surrounding area

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dublin for 4 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Dublin, including a park, a zoo, a monument, a museum, a university and much more! Start your day with a visit to Phoenix Park. This notable park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Dublin Zoo, which may be one of the most breathtaking 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 Molly Malone Statue, a notable monument in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Book Of Kells and Trinity College Dublin.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Ireland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities 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.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Bastible, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Patrick Guilbaud, known for its delicious modern french cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Dublin is Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bruxelles, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Light House Cinema offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dublin. Bowe's Lounge Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

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

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

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Dublin, including a castle, a church, a brewery, a botanical garden and much more! Start your day at Dublin Castle. This historic castle is a locally renowned place to see in Dublin. Then, wander over to Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. If stunning sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find St Patrick's Cathedral. This historic church is a favorite among visitors.

Dublin offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Guinness Storehouse is a well-known spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the brewery, don’t forget to check out the mesmerizing National Botanic Gardens. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this locally renowned botanical garden.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Ireland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Brazen Head, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bewley's Grafton Street is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dublin tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Bridge 1859. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Dame Tavern offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Mary's Bar & Hardware, another top-rated bar in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

Day 4 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Dublin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Iveagh Gardens. This curiosity-inducing park is a serene place to see in Dublin. Continue your discovery at St Stephen's Green, a mesmerizing park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Dublin, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology. This locally renowned museum offers a historic encounter with Dublin. Next, make your way to National Gallery Of Ireland to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Natural History Museum, a locally appreciated museum that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Dublin.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Ireland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at SOLE Seafood & Grill, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Kehoes Pub offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Cobblestone. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dublin.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar" is an excellent place to start.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Dublin, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Dún Laoghaire and Dundrum. You still have 1 night left in Dublin.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in Dublin. Begin your sightseeing with Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police. This worthwhile marina is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to People's Park, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Dublin, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Forty Foot. This frequently visited beach is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Killiney Hill Park, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Marlay Park is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at The Stags Head, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Chapter One Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Bank on College Green. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

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

On day 6 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 Tallaght, Clondalkin, Lucan, and The Municipal District of Celbridge — Leixlip. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sligo, where you will stay for 1 night.

Dublin is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views! Start at Tymon Park, a beloved park that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Sean Walsh Memorial Park, enchanting visitors with its gorgeous appeal. Continue your exploration at Corkagh Park. This park is one of the town’s most increasingly popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Dublin at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Griffeen Valley Park. After exploring the park, head to the curiosity-inducing Castletown House.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Bridgefoot House, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try O'Briens Sandwich Café? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Coach Lane Restaurant @ Donaghy's Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Sligo.

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

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