Affordable 11-Day Relaxed Ireland Road Trip Vacation from Dublin to Cork and Galway

Your slow-paced and relaxed road trip through Ireland begins when you reach Dublin, where you’ll stay for a total of 4 nights.

Dublin is an outstanding hub for culture, comfort, and exploration. The city offers travelers plenty of experiences to look forward to, including the magnificent Ha'penny Bridge. Around 13,278 visitors have rated this fascinating footbridge and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Take your pick and make it your home during your leisurely tour of the city.

Exploring the food culture in Dublin offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

An excellent example is Merchant's Arch. This restaurant offers a menu of comforting meals and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,988 customers.

The Brazen Head serves great food and is a favorite among hungry travelers and locals. This popular restaurant in Dublin has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,980 reviews.

The Stags Head is another one of the city’s best restaurants. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,691 customers, The Stags Head is sure to provide you with an unforgettable dining experience.

If you’re curious about what Dublin looks like at night, a trip to some of the best bars near your accommodation is what you need next. Experience the local nightlife at Light House Cinema, our top recommendation in the city. Customers have rated this bar an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 3,744 reviews.

Free your mind of worries and enjoy your first taste of relaxation in Ireland! Expect more to come as you continue this laid-back and relaxed road trip in Ireland!

On day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you'll explore the best attractions in Dublin at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Dublin, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 3 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous Phoenix Park. This incredible park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 37,298 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Ireland by seeing another popular site in Dublin, the wonderful Iveagh Gardens. This urban park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 37,298 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible St Stephen's Green. This park has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,521 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable National Botanic Gardens. This botanical garden is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,718 visitors.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 2 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Ireland. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Dublin itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Ireland extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Dublin. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, Chapter One Restaurant. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 849 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at The Bank on College Green, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. The Bank on College Green is rated 4.5 stars out of 5 by 4,043 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended Café en Seine. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,282 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Dublin and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks.

Enjoy the rest of day 2 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you'll explore the best attractions in Dublin at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Dublin, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 2 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous Guinness Storehouse. This incredible tourist attraction has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,154 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Ireland by seeing another popular site in Dublin, the wonderful St Patrick's Cathedral. This anglican or episcopal cathedral is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 19,154 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Dublin Castle. This must-see tourist destination has received an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 31,463 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Book of Kells. This codex is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,299 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology. This amazing site is a wonderful national museum with more than 12,321 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars. By visiting this attraction, you’ll be one of the 370,965 people who do so each year.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 3 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Ireland. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Dublin itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Ireland extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Dublin. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,660 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at Mr Fox, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. Mr Fox is rated 4.7 stars out of 5 by 690 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended Porterhouse Temple Bar. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,884 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Dublin and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks.

Enjoy the rest of day 3 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

On day 4 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit two remarkable areas in Ireland. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Ireland.

Your first destination is the beautiful city of Kilkenny. As the day progresses, you’ll continue your in-depth tour of the country in the city of Cashel. You’ll spend 3 nights in Cork.

Take the opportunity to relax while admiring what the city has to offer. While on a relaxed road trip, one of the best places to explore in the city is the remarkable Kilkenny Castle. This schloss country house museum and popular sightseeing spot has an average rating of 4.7 over 5 stars from 10,743 visitors.

Another top sight worth checking out is the amazing Kilkenny Castle. This schloss country house museum and go-to attraction has an average rating of 4.6 over 5 stars from 11,458 travelers.

While exploring the city of Kilkenny, we highly recommend you join one of its top-rated tours. Joining a tour will allow you to better understand the local culture in Ireland, meet new people, and create memorable experiences, while you comfortably enjoy.

After a fun experience in Kilkenny, buckle up and enjoy a relaxing drive to your next stop, the incredible city of Cashel. This is your opportunity to create more unforgettable memories in Ireland and discover the wonderful Cashel.

While in Cashel, take a break at one of its best attractions, the great Rock of Cashel. This castle and popular site has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,510 reviews.

This travel spotis a go-to place in Cashel.

As this day of your laid-back exploration of the best attractions in Ireland comes to a close, continue your relaxed road trip adventure in Cork. Drive leisurely, enjoy the views, and listen to some good music. In Cork, you’ll choose from the best hotels and places to stay in the city and restore your energy.

After a long day of traveling and sightseeing, take it easy and have a wonderful dinner at one of the best restaurants in Cork. Check out The Woodford, a top choice in Ireland due to its excellent meals and service.

Another Cork restaurant to try is a local favorite, Izz Cafe.

If you’re looking for another must-visit option, Liberty Grill is a perfect choice. This popular restaurant in Cork has a score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,609 people.

After dinner, many travelers enjoy hanging out and unwinding at some of the top bars in Cork. The popular The Shelbourne Bar has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,024 customers and is the perfect place to fully appreciate your unhurried and relaxed road trip vacation in Ireland.

You could also relax with a drink at another popular bar like The Oval. This hang-out has an average rating of 4.6 from 799 individuals.

Celebrate another day of your relaxing road trip through Ireland with a toast at a top-rated bar in Cork!

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you'll explore the best attractions in Cork at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Cork, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 2 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous Fitzgerald's Park. This incredible park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,170 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Ireland by seeing another popular site in Cork, the wonderful Cork City Gaol. This prison is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,170 travelers.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 5 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Ireland. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Cork itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Ireland extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Cork. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, Luigi Malones Cork. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,073 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at Costigan's Pub, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. Costigan's Pub is rated 4.5 stars out of 5 by 818 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended Hayfield Manor Hotel. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,427 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Cork and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks.

Enjoy the rest of day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you’ll explore the area around Kinsale, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Kinsale will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Ireland.

One of the city’s best travel destinations is a fascinating fort, the stunning Charles Fort. Around 3,418 visitors rated their experience at this well-known attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Kinsale. Tours offer an opportunity to get to know more about Kinsale and the unique culture of the country.

There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Kinsale that will make your self-drive tour in Ireland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Kinsale to find the best options for you!

After satisfying your wanderlust, you’ll head to your accommodation in the city of Cork for some rest and relaxation. Immerse yourself in the local food culture of Ireland by eating at one of the best restaurants in Cork.

With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 991 customers, the dining experience White Rabbit Bar & BBQ offers is the perfect complement to your relaxed road trip in Ireland.

The SpitJack Cork is another pleasant place to eat in Cork. This restaurant offers a menu of delectable dishes and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,934 customers.

If you’re looking for a restaurant that locals enjoy, check out The Raven Bar and try their flavorful menu. This local favorite has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 675 customers.

When you’re in the mood for an after-dinner drink, visit one of the best bars in the city.

Get cozy and have fun because this is what your relaxed road trip in Ireland is all about!

Day 7 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Ireland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience two places in one day. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Galway, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

When you’re ready to head to your first attraction of the day, the wonderful Cliffs of Moher is waiting for you. This cliff has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 32,664 visitors.

The next stop on your road trip vacation is Cliffs of Moher Walking Trail. This unique park is a highly recommended place to visit, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 508 visitors.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your relaxed road trip in Ireland. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

Turn on some soothing tunes in the car because it’s now time to drive to the city of Galway. In Galway, you can choose among the best hotels and places to rest and recharge to complement your relaxed road trip experience in Ireland.

After a long day of driving and exploring along your relaxed road trip route, sitting down for a well-cooked restaurant meal in Bunratty is an excellent idea.

A popular restaurant we recommend you try is The Front Door Pub, one of the best restaurants in Bunratty. With a lovely menu and an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,692 customers, you can’t go wrong with choosing The Front Door Pub.

Locals also recommend O'Connell's Bar Galway as one of the top restaurants in the area. So if you’re feeling hungry, don’t forget to check out the menu at O'Connell's Bar Galway as well. This local-favorite restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,659 customers.

If you feel like having something else, you could also book a table at Zappis Restaurant. Zappis Restaurant is another of the most popular places to eat in Bunratty. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 505 customers.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

If you would like to celebrate your vacation with a drink, we recommend going to a place like Tigh Neachtain. Tigh Neachtain is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,561 customers and is one of the best bars you can visit tonight.

Another lively bar worth checking out tonight is The Crane Bar. This is the perfect place to enjoy a couple of drinks if you want to continue your celebrations. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,098 customers gives you an idea of what to expect from this bar.

Alternatively, head to O'Connor's Famous Pub. This popular bar will bring up your mood and give you a good ending to your night. O'Connor's Famous Pub is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,806 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration and anticipation of your memorable and relaxing road trip adventure through Ireland!

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 2 nights will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden. This incredible cafe has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,674 travelers.

This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,674 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Walled Victorian Garden. This park has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,338 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Dog's Bay. This bay is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,807 visitors.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 8 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Ireland. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Ireland extra special!

One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, A Púcán. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,188 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at The Skeff Bar, which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. The Skeff Bar is rated 4.3 stars out of 5 by 3,056 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended Kai Restaurant. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,177 food lovers.

Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular Caribou. This vibrant bar is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 979 customers.

If you want to try a different bar, check out the popular Taaffes Bar. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,455 customers, this bar is a great place to try some excellent liquor.

Another recommendation you shouldn’t miss is Monroe's Tavern. Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks. Monroe's Tavern has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,993 bar goers.

Enjoy the rest of day 8 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

On day 9 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you'll explore the best attractions in Galway at your own pace and immerse in the city's unique local culture. Today's laid-back tour features some of the best restaurants and bars in Galway, where you can sample some delicious local food.

The accommodation you’ll be staying at for another 1 night will be conveniently located close to several attractions, like the famous Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway. This incredible catholic cathedral has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,556 travelers.

Make the most of your slow-paced travel adventure in Ireland by seeing another popular site in Galway, the wonderful Great Escape Rooms. This best-rated sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,556 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible The Latin Quarter. This best-rated sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,096 visitors.

Another stop you might want to add to your self-drive itinerary is the remarkable Spanish Arch. This best-rated sightseeing destination is sought after by many travelers from around the world. The popular attraction has received 4.2 out of 5 stars from 5,753 visitors.

If you want to discover more, consider stopping by the famous Galway City Museum. This amazing site is a wonderful city museum with more than 2,232 wanderlust-filled travelers rating it an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars. By visiting this attraction, you’ll be one of the 161,558 people who do so each year.

Get a dose of thrill, excitement, and inspiration on day 9 of your unhurried and relaxed road trip in Ireland. Check out the tours and tickets you can add to your Galway itinerary and feel all the emotions in this wonderful city. Add a highly recommended tour to your vacation package now and make this refreshing new day of your self-drive through Ireland extra special!

After a long day exploring the popular attractions in the city, it’s time to sample the different kinds of mouthwatering foods served at the best restaurants in Galway. One of our top recommendations includes a selection of delicious meals on its menu, The Dáil Bar Galway. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,040 customers.

You may also try the variety of dishes served at Scotty's Burgers & Wings, Galway, Ireland. , which is an excellent choice if you want a nice place to eat near your accommodation. Scotty's Burgers & Wings, Galway, Ireland. Is rated 4.8 stars out of 5 by 616 customers.

You can also eat at the highly recommended The Quays Bar and Restaurant. This amazing restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,514 food lovers.

After finishing your meal, it’s time to experience the amazing nightlife in Galway and unwind at the coolest bars in the city. Drink the night away and celebrate this day of your relaxed road trip at the popular Tigh Chóilí. This vibrant bar is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,662 customers.

Drink up and relax in this amazing bar that serves different kinds of alcoholic beverages and cocktail drinks.

Enjoy the rest of day 9 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, and prepare for another day of unhurried adventure!

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Ireland will take you on a self-paced journey to two incredible places in one day. See some of the best attractions in Ireland, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

You’ll begin your day and sightseeing in The Municipal District of Trim, and continue your explorations in the region of Ashbourne. The charming Dublin is where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Your first stop is the great city of The Municipal District of Trim, where you will see the amazing Trim Castle. This famous castle has an impressive 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 6,117 people.

Give yourself the opportunity to see more of The Municipal District of Trim than meets the eye by joining a top-rated tour. Put your relaxed road trip to a halt in favor of an in-depth exploration of the city’s best sights and hidden gems while connecting with locals and fellow travelers.

After exploring the city of The Municipal District of Trim, it’s time to hit the road again and continue your relaxed road trip to another region in Ireland, the lovely Ashbourne!

In Ashbourne, you’ll find the magnificent Hill of Tara. This popular archaeological site has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,276 visitors.

After exploring all these beautiful places, drive leisurely to the beautiful city of Dublin for some much-needed rest and relaxation. Here you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

After a long day of driving and exploring some of the best places to visit in Ireland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Dublin.

We highly recommend going to The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant. This place is a popular restaurant with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,719 customers.

Another great restaurant option is PHX Bistro. This food place is often recommended by travelers and has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,038 customers.

You can also eat at the top-rated The Vintage Kitchen. Offering great food and amazing service, this restaurant has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 911 customers.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Dublin and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Let’s toast to day 10 of your laid-back self-drive in Ashbourne! Celebrate this unique opportunity to enjoy a memorable road trip adventure across Ireland!

Day 11 of your relaxed road trip in Ireland is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Dublin.

Depending on when you need to leave, you might be able to fit in some sightseeing or shopping. Embrace the beauty of Dublin once more and find some souvenirs to help you remember your time in the city. To end your relaxing road trip in Ireland on top, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Molly Malone Statue is an extraordinary attraction that is perfect for your last day in Dublin. This top sight is a popular best-rated sightseeing destination, rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 11,774 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 11 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Dublin or just grab something light to keep you going.

Check out the menu at The Temple Bar Pub. Dining at The Temple Bar Pub is one of the best food experiences you can have in Dublin. This popular restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,491 customers.

Another top recommendation in Dublin is Murray’s Pub. If you go to Murray’s Pub, you can expect delicious food, a nice ambiance, and great service. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,882 customers.

Alternatively, you could also go to a place like The Church Café, Late Bar & Restaurant. If you haven’t yet, a trip to The Church Café, Late Bar & Restaurant is your opportunity to have a lovely meal before leaving the city. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,779 customers.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Dublin and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 11-day relaxed road trip in Ireland is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.