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

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Escape the ordinary with this exciting 9-day road trip through Ireland. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Ireland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 6 nights in Dublin, 1 night in Sligo, and 1 night in Carlingford. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Ireland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Dublin, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Ireland on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Ireland. Phoenix Park and St Stephen's Green are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Dublin Castle, learn more about the unique Dublin Zoo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of St Patrick's Cathedral.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dublin, Dún Laoghaire, Dundrum, Tallaght, Clondalkin, Lucan, The Municipal District of Celbridge — Leixlip, Sligo, Carlingford, and Malahide, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Ireland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Ireland.

Throughout your road trip in Ireland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Ireland.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Ireland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Ireland today!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Ha'penny Bridge
Phoenix ParkDublin ZooMolly Malone StatueThe Book of Kells ExperienceTrinity College Dublin
Dublin CastleChrist Church Cathedral, DublinSt. Patrick's Cathedral ParkGuinness StorehouseNational Botanic Gardens
Iveagh GardensSt Stephen's GreenNational Museum of Ireland – ArchaeologyNational Gallery of IrelandNational Museum of Ireland – Natural History
Dún Laoghaire Harbour PolicePeople's ParkForty FootKilliney Hill ParkMarlay Park
Tymon ParkSean Walsh Memorial ParkCorkagh ParkGriffeen Valley ParkCastletown House

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dublin - Arrival day
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  • Ha'penny Bridge
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Your road trip adventure in Ireland begins as soon as you reach Dublin and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Dublin for 5 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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 just 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Dublin, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Savor the flavors at Peadar Kearney's Pub, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Lotts Cafe Bar beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Merchant's Arch. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dublin tonight.

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!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dublin
  • More

Drive 15 km, 1 hour 5 min

  • Phoenix Park
  • Dublin Zoo
  • Molly Malone Statue
  • The Book of Kells Experience
  • Trinity College Dublin
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Dublin. You have 4 nights left in Dublin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Dublin allows for both. Start by heading to Phoenix Park. This interesting park provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Dublin Zoo, a picture-perfect zoo, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Molly Malone Statue, a captivating monument. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the notable Book Of Kells. Round off your day at Trinity College Dublin, another gem in Dublin with respected features to discover.

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.

Begin 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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bruxelles, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Light House Cinema offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Bowe's Lounge Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Dublin
  • More

Drive 12 km, 1 hour 22 min

  • Dublin Castle
  • Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin
  • St. Patrick's Cathedral Park
  • Guinness Storehouse
  • National Botanic Gardens
  • More

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 for an exciting day in Dublin. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle, a church, a brewery, a botanical garden and much more! Begin your adventure at Dublin Castle. This is a captivating castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin, a curiosity-inducing church in Dublin.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to St Patrick's Cathedral. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Guinness Storehouse, another of the city’s interesting attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at National Botanic Gardens, an eye-catching place of interest in the city.

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 delicious meal at The Brazen Head, a highly-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bewley's Grafton Street, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

Continue your lively evening at The Bridge 1859, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Dame Tavern is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Mary's Bar & Hardware ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Dublin
  • More

Drive 6 km, 1 hour 6 min

  • Iveagh Gardens
  • St Stephen's Green
  • National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
  • National Gallery of Ireland
  • National Museum of Ireland – Natural History
  • More

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.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Dublin. Begin your sightseeing with Iveagh Gardens. This intriguing park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to St Stephen's Green, 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 National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology. This well-known museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find National Gallery Of Ireland, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary. Natural History Museum is yet another highly recommended place to visit nearby, offering plenty to discover for curious travelers.

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 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.

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

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar" stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Dublin
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Drive 45 km, 2 hours 10 min

  • Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police
  • People's Park
  • Forty Foot
  • Killiney Hill Park
  • Marlay Park
  • More

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Dublin, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Dublin, including a marina, a park, and a beach. Start your adventure at Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police. This beloved marina is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to People's Park located in Dublin for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Forty Foot. Its awe-inspiring features will captivate you. After the beach, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Killiney Hill Park. Visitors usually appreciate the serene features of this park. Next up is Marlay Park, a highly recommended park.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Stags Head, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Chapter One Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The Bank on College Green is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dublin.

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Dublin
  • Sligo
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Drive 226 km, 3 hours 53 min

  • Tymon Park
  • Sean Walsh Memorial Park
  • Corkagh Park
  • Griffeen Valley Park
  • Castletown House
  • More

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Tallaght, Clondalkin, Lucan, and The Municipal District of Celbridge — Leixlip, 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 Sligo. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Immerse yourself in Dublin’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Tymon Park. This gorgeous park is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the peaceful features of Sean Walsh Memorial Park, a must-visit park in the town.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Corkagh Park, an up-and-coming park. For a change of scene, check out Griffeen Valley Park, known for its instagrammable features. We also recommend visiting Castletown House. This castle is a must for anyone looking to experience the town to the fullest.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Sligo. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bridgefoot House, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? O'Briens Sandwich Café offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Coach Lane Restaurant @ Donaghy's Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Sligo.

Continue your lively evening at Foleys, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Belfry Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Snug Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Sligo
  • Carlingford
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Drive 274 km, 3 hours 47 min

  • Bective Abbey
  • Knowth
  • Newgrange
  • Brú na Bóinne
  • More

On day 7 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 The Municipal District of Laytown — Bettystown. In the evening, you’ll end up in Carlingford, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Sligo, including a monastery and an archeological site. Start your day with a visit to Bective Abbey. This beloved monastery is a must-visit in the region. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Knowth, which may be one of the most awe-inspiring places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Sligo 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 Newgrange, an increasingly popular archeological site in the region. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Brú Na Bóinne.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Carlingford. Carlingford offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As you explore more of Carlingford, 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.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Carlingford
  • Dublin
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Drive 145 km, 2 hours 17 min

  • Malahide Castle & Gardens
  • St. Catherine's Park
  • More

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Malahide. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dublin, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Carlingford. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Malahide Castle & Gardens is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most locally renowned places to visit in Carlingford. Next, head to St. Catherine's Park (fingal), a frequently visited park, known for its enchanting features.

Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Dublin, 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 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 a delicious meal at Quays, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Keoghs Cafe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café en Seine. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

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

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Day 9

Day 9

  • Dublin - Departure day
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  • James Joyce Statue
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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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting James Joyce Statue, a noteworthy monument before you head out.

On your last day in Ireland, take time to indulge in shopping at Dublin’s popular marketplace, Henry Street. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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 FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Winding Stair offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Mayfield Restaurant.

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!

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