Cheap 11-Day Ireland Road Trip from Dublin to Kilkenny and surrounding area

Your exciting road trip through Ireland starts when you reach the incredible city of Dublin, where you'll stay for 7 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Dublin and begin your adventure in Ireland.

Dublin is a popular cheap holiday destination in Ireland with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Ireland, Dublin is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You’ll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Molly Malone Statue. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 11,943 visitors.

A cheap, budget vacation in Dublin should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Dublin, try some of our top recommendations.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to Peadar Kearney's Pub, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by The Lotts Cafe Bar - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Merchant's Arch promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Dublin, Mulligan's. John Kavanagh The Gravediggers is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Cassidy's, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Ireland!

Day 2 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, proving that cheap holidays in Ireland can be extraordinary. Have fun exploring the best places to visit in the city. At the end of the day, enjoy wining and dining at Dublin, with 6 nights to stay in the area.

When you're ready to see some sights, Phoenix Park is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 37,460 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Dublin Zoo. This zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,781 travelers. Every year, 1,105,005 travelers come to experience this site to make the most of their time in Dublin.

We also recommend a stop at National Museum Of Ireland – Decorative Arts And History. This site gets more than 313,790 visitors annually. The art museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,393 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting National Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,941 reviews.

Ireland is a wonderful destination with so much to show and so many stories to tell. To have the most extraordinary time on your low-cost holiday in Ireland, consider adding tours to your affordable tour package to Ireland. Choose from many thrilling to laid back and budget-friendly excursions in Ireland that will add color and uniqueness to your adventure.

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Ireland shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Dublin is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options.

Bruxelles offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Dublin, check out Light House Cinema. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Bowe's Lounge Bar.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Ireland!

Day 3 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories on your cheap holiday in Ireland. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Dublin and its top sights! Conclude your day with a lovely dinner.

Make Guinness Storehouse your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this tourist attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 19,378 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at St Patrick's Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 21,374 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this anglican or episcopal cathedral every year.

Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin is another attraction you can visit on this day of your vacation. This anglican or episcopal cathedral has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,634 visitors.

When you’re finished at Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin, the perfect next stop is Dublin Castle. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 31,657 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to St Stephen's Green. This park is a top place to visit, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 29,869 reviews.

Visiting the most popular travel destinations in Ireland sometimes leaves you longing for more. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique and cheap tours to try out in Ireland. Ireland has something for everyone, and you can easily pick an activity you can add to your affordable vacation package. Check out all of the budget-friendly tours in Ireland that will fill you with new inspiration.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Dublin, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at The Brazen Head, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Bewley's Grafton Street is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at The Bridge 1859, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at The Dame Tavern, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is Mary's Bar & Hardware, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Ireland! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Dublin!

Day 4 means another chance to make the best memories in Dublin. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Dublin and check out the most popular dining spots. You still have 4 nights left to stay in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Natural History Museum. This national museum typically receives around 108,615 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,974 reviews.

Continue your journey at National Gallery Of Ireland. This art gallery is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,801 travelers from near and far.

Dublin is also the home of National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology. This national museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 12,538 visitors. Each year, around 370,965 travelers visit this top sight, and today is your chance to do the same.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Book Of Kells. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,760 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Trinity College Dublin. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,087 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this university.

Keen to do something new and one-of-a-kind today? There are many experiences you can add to your cheap vacation package. Check out all the budget-friendly activities and tours below and bag a cheap holiday deal.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Dublin offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Ireland.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at SOLE Seafood & Grill, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Kehoes Pub, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss The Cobblestone, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar" is an excellent example of a great bar in Dublin offering drinks at reasonable prices.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Dublin!

On day 5 of your affordable vacation in Ireland, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for another 3 nights. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Ireland, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

Set your GPS to Curragha and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 34 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Curragha beckons with new experiences!

Make Tayto Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this amusement park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 14,403 reviews.

The Municipal District of Ashbourne’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Curragha behind. This drive usually takes around 19 min. The Municipal District of Ashbourne welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Hill Of Tara. This popular archaeological site has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,323 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to The Municipal District of Ashbourne, you’ll hit the road in the direction of The Municipal District of Trim. This drive usually takes around 18 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Trim Castle. This castle is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in The Municipal District of Trim, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,224 visitors.

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

Going on cheap, budget vacations in Ireland shouldn’t stop anyone from dining at top-rated restaurants and bars. More than just an affordable travel destination, Dublin is also home to a variety of excellent dining and drinking spots. When it’s time for a meal, we recommend you try some of the city's best places to eat and enjoy refreshing drinks.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to The Stags Head, known for its delectable cuisine and inviting ambiance. While immersing yourself in the local culture during your budget-friendly getaway, make sure to stop by Chapter One Restaurant - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, The Bank on College Green promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Ireland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Ireland!

Ready for day 6 of your road trip vacation in Ireland? Discover more of Dublin and beyond on this leg of your journey. Explore more top attractions, dive into new cultures, and enjoy unique experiences. Today is all about maximizing your 2 nights in this vibrant destination!

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dublin, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Malahide. This drive usually takes around 32 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Malahide. This much-appreciated townland is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,889 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Malahide, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Swords. This drive usually takes around 6 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Malahide Castle & Gardens one of your first sightseeing stops in Swords. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,383 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Make Santry Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,254 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at St. Catherine's Park (fingal). With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,845 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this townland every year.

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

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Dublin. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

Quays stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Keoghs Cafe offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Café en Seine, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Dublin!

On day 7 of your affordable vacation in Ireland, you’ll start and end your day in Dublin, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 1 night left in Dublin, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dundrum. This drive usually takes around 33 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Marlay Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,367 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Dundrum, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dún Laoghaire may take around 22 min. Upon your arrival in Dún Laoghaire, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Kick off the day at Killiney Hill Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,391 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Forty Foot. Forty Foot is a promontory with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,373 reviews.

People's Park is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,465 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,180 visitors.

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

A cheap, budget vacation in Dublin should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Dublin, try some of our top recommendations.

FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to The Winding Stair. Or, try Mayfield Restaurant, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Ireland. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Ireland!

On day 8 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Ireland, you’ll experience 5 charming destinations — Tallaght, Clondalkin, Lucan, Leixlip, and The Municipal District of Kildare — Newbridge. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the town of Kilkenny, where you'll stay for 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dublin, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Tallaght. This drive usually takes around 28 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Journey into the unknown at Tymon Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,961 reviews.

After soaking in Tallaght’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Clondalkin. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 16 min. When you arrive in Clondalkin, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at Corkagh Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,299 reviews.

After soaking in Clondalkin’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Lucan. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 14 min. When you arrive in Lucan, it's time to take a break from the road.

Kick off the day at Griffeen Valley Park, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,860 reviews.

While exploring Ireland is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Kilkenny has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Kilkenny on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the town.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Kilkenny, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the town's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

Discover the heart of Kilkenny through its culinary scene, starting with Billy Byrnes Gastro Bar & Venue. Not only will you discover mouthwatering dishes, but you'll also be pleasantly surprised by their budget-friendly offerings. For a taste of tradition, try Langtons Hotel Kilkenny, where time-honored recipes are served.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Dylan Whisky Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Biddy Early´s offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Tynans Bridge House Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Ireland!

Day 9’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Kilkenny, proving that cheap holidays in Ireland can be extraordinary. You have 1 night left in Kilkenny. So make the most of today by going to the best places to visit, eat, and drink in the town.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Kilkenny Castle, a remarkable schloss country house museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,966 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Kilkenny Castle. This schloss country house museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,597 travelers.

Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny is another must-visit attraction. This renowned tourist attraction offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,170 travelers, 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 St Canice's Cathedral. This well-loved church boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,093 reviews.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Kilkenny. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Kilkenny has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Italian Connection, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Syd Harkin's Pub is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Butcher Restaurant.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Blue Bar and try some of its cocktails and snacks. Ryans Bar is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit Christy's Bar, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Ireland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Ireland!

On day 10 of your cheap holiday travels in Ireland, you’ll tour 3 destinations: Wicklow, The Municipal District of Bray, and Enniskerry. You'll stay in Dublin for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

When you’ve had your share of Wicklow, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of The Municipal District of Bray. Your travel time is around 26 min.

Make Wicklow Mountains National Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 7,625 reviews.

Set your GPS to The Municipal District of Bray and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 26 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. The Municipal District of Bray beckons with new experiences!

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Powerscourt Waterfall. This waterfall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,433 reviews.

Enniskerry welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Powerscourt House & Gardens. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,555 visitors.

Dublin offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Ireland. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Dublin. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Bar Italia ristorante, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Slattery's is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Darkey Kelly's.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Ireland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Ireland!

Your budget road trip vacation in Ireland is about to end. Day 11 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Dublin.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Dublin is the remarkable Ha'penny Bridge. This footbridge and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,413 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Ireland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dublin.

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Dublin, consider a top-rated restaurant like Grainger's Cafe Bar, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Brogans is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is The Long Hall, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Dublin.

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!