9-Day Ireland Road Trip from Dublin to Sligo, and Carlingford and surrounding area

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.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Iveagh Gardens. This extraordinary urban park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,024 visitors.

Next, make your way to St Stephen's Green. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 29,869 reviews.

While in Dublin, we also recommend a visit to Irish National War Memorial Gardens. This war memorial has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,293 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Dublin Zoo. This attraction gets around 1,105,005 yearly visitors. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,781 travelers, this zoo is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Dublin.

Make your way to National Botanic Gardens, perhaps the most famous botanical garden in Dublin. This attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,941 reviews.

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

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Dublin by booking a table at Bastible, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Patrick Guilbaud, renowned for its delectable modern french dishes. This 2-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a local gem known for its delightful modern cuisine in Dublin. Nestled in the city's heart, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bruxelles, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Light House Cinema, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bowe's Lounge Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

Your sightseeing of the day begins at St Patrick's Cathedral, a remarkable anglican or episcopal cathedral where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 21,374 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Book Of Kells. This codex has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,760 travelers.

National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology is another must-visit attraction. This renowned national museum offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,538 travelers and attracting 370,965 annual visitors, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit National Gallery Of Ireland. This well-loved art gallery boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 14,801 reviews.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Bull Island awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing an island, this is a top pick rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,983 previous visitors.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Ireland that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Dublin has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. Scroll down and select tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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 delicious dinner at The Brazen Head, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bewley's Grafton Street offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic 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.

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

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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Dublin Castle. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 31,657 visitors.

Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin is another popular attraction you could visit today. This anglican or episcopal cathedral has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 9,634 visitors.

Dublinia is also highly recommended by travelers. This museum has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,897 visitors.

Guinness Storehouse is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This tourist attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 19,378 reviews.

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

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Dublin on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

As you explore more of Dublin, 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.

Make sure to book a table at SOLE Seafood & Grill, a popular restaurant in Dublin. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dublin at Kehoes Pub, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is The Cobblestone. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Dublin tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", a top-rated bar in the area.

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

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

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Dún Laoghaire, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Dublin to Dún Laoghaire may take around 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dún Laoghaire, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,180 visitors.

People's Park is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,465 visitors.

Forty Foot is also highly recommended by travelers. This promontory has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,373 visitors.

Killiney Hill Park is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,391 reviews.

Dundrum’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Dún Laoghaire behind. This drive usually takes around 21 min. Dundrum welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Marlay Park, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,367 reviews.

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

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 Stags Head, a highly-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're eager to try something different, consider Chapter One Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Bank on College Green. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 4 vibrant destinations - Tallaght, Clondalkin, Leixlip, and The Municipal District of Clane — Maynooth. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Sligo. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Tallaght, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Dublin to Tallaght may take around 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Tallaght, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Tymon Park. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,961 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Tallaght and set your GPS to Clondalkin. 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 16 min. Upon reaching Clondalkin, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Corkagh Park. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,299 visitors.

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.

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

Make sure to book a table at Bridgefoot House, a popular restaurant in Sligo. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Sligo at O'Briens Sandwich Café, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Coach Lane Restaurant @ Donaghy's Bar. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Sligo tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Foleys, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, The Belfry Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, The Snug Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Castleknock, Swords, and Howth, 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 Dublin. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Make St. Catherine's Park (fingal) one of your first sightseeing stops in Castleknock. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,845 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Santry Park is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,254 reviews.

Set your GPS to Castleknock and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Castleknock beckons with new experiences!

Make Farmleigh House & Estate your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,953 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Dublin. Dublin offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Quays, 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 Keoghs Cafe, 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 Café en Seine, a hidden gem nestled in Dublin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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