Affordable 12-Day Relaxed Ireland Road Trip Vacation from Cork to Galway, and Dublin

Your relaxed road trip through Ireland starts when you reach the incredible city of Cork, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Cork and begin your adventure in Ireland.

Cork is a popular cheap holiday destination in Ireland with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Ireland, Cork 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.

One thing you have to know about Cork is that this city is an outstanding hub for culture, exploration, and relaxation. When you're ready to begin your tour of the city, stop at some of the best places to visit in Cork.

Take the opportunity to see Tramore Valley Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 761 visitors.

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

Start your foodie adventure at The Woodford, where you'll find affordable mouthwatering meals and desserts. If you’re craving a taste of local favorites, head over to Greenes Restaurant, a go-to spot for both budget-savvy travelers and locals alike. For an unforgettable dining experience, don't miss Izz Cafe, where exquisite dishes and cozy ambiance await to make your culinary adventure truly memorable!

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Impala and try some of its cocktails and snacks. The Shelbourne 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 The Oval, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

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

Day 2 of your road trip across Ireland offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Cork, and Blarney. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Galway, where you'll stay for 1 night.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Cork Opera House. This much-appreciated opera house is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,872 reviews.

Next up is Fitzgerald's Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,236 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Cork City Gaol. This prison has been rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,984 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Cork, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Blarney. Your travel time is around 11 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Blarney Castle & Gardens. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,871 reviews.

Blarney Stone is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This stone is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,888 reviews.

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

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

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at The Front Door Pub, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await.

The Dew Drop Inn is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Freeney's Bar is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at Tigh Neachtain, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

Have a toast to celebrate your relaxing road trip vacation in Ireland! Make every second of your affordable travels in Galway count!

On day 3 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Ireland, you’ll experience 2 charming destinations — Galway, and Kinvarra. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Dublin, where you'll stay for 8 nights.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Eyre Square. This extraordinary square has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,318 visitors.

Next, make your way to Great Escape Rooms. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 1,221 reviews.

While in Galway, we also recommend a visit to Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,704 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Spanish Arch. With an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,825 travelers, this point of interest is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Galway.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Kinvarra, 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 Galway to Kinvarra may take around 34 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Kinvarra, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Dunguaire Castle. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,888 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.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at Mulligan's and try some of its cocktails and snacks. John Kavanagh The Gravediggers 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 Cassidy's, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

Seize the night and embrace the freedom of your leisurely road trip escapade through Ireland!

On day 4 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 7 nights 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.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Dublin, you’ll hit the road in the direction of The Municipal District of Laytown — Bettystown. This drive usually takes around 50 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Brú Na Bóinne your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this archaeological site an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,949 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to The Municipal District of Laytown — Bettystown and set your GPS to Curragha. 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 31 min. Upon reaching Curragha, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Drop by the renowned Tayto Park. This popular amusement park has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,403 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Curragha and set your GPS to The Municipal District of Trim. 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 31 min. Upon reaching The Municipal District of Trim, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Make Trim Castle one of your first sightseeing stops in The Municipal District of Trim. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 6,224 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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. Dublin has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Taste Food Company, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to The Confession Box, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at Bruxelles, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at Light House Cinema, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is Bowe's Lounge Bar, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

Have a toast to celebrate your relaxing road trip vacation in Ireland! Make every second of your affordable travels in Dublin count!

Ready for day 5 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 6 nights in this vibrant destination!

When you’ve had your share of Dublin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Glendalough. Your travel time is around 1 hour 11 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Glendalough Cathedral. This church building is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,115 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Glendalough, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Wicklow. This drive usually takes around 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in The Municipal District of Bray. This drive usually takes around 26 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Powerscourt Waterfall. This much-appreciated waterfall is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,433 reviews.

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

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.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at The Brazen Head, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is Bewley's Grafton Street, 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 Shack Restaurant Temple Bar, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Visit The Bridge 1859, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. The Dame Tavern serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Dublin. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is Mary's Bar & Hardware.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, budget-friendly adventure across Ireland.

Day 6 of your exciting road trip across Ireland is proof that there's more to this country than meets the eye. Today's agenda is to explore Dublin and its neighboring areas. Expect amazing attractions, a great dining experience, and a wonderful time discovering the daily lives of locals with 5 nights left in Dublin.

Journey into the unknown at Dublin Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 31,657 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin is a recommended place to visit. This anglican or episcopal cathedral is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,634 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Dublin is Dublinia. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,897 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Dublin offers an experience you will remember.

Phoenix Park is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Dublin. This park promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.7 out of 5 stars in 37,460 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Dublin and set your GPS to Swords. 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 28 min. Upon reaching Swords, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Malahide Castle & Gardens. This sightseeing destination is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Swords, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 14,383 visitors.

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

Make the most of your budget vacation in Ireland by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Dublin that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Recharge and refresh your energy with a visit to SOLE Seafood & Grill, 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 Kehoes Pub - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, The Cobblestone promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar" and try some of its cocktails and snacks.

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

Day 7 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 4 nights to stay in the area.

When you're ready to see some sights, Book Of Kells is a great place to start. This codex is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 13,760 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Irish Whiskey Museum. This museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,247 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Molly Malone Statue. The point of interest has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 11,943 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Ha'penny Bridge. This footbridge is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 13,413 reviews.

National Botanic Gardens is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this botanical garden, rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 15,941 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

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.

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. Dublin has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Discover the heart of Dublin through its culinary scene, starting with The Stags Head. 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 Chapter One Restaurant, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore The Bank on College Green, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Seize the night and embrace the freedom of your leisurely road trip escapade through Ireland!

Day 8 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.

Take the opportunity to see Dublin Zoo. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 25,781 visitors and gets around 1,105,005 visits every year.

National Museum Of Ireland – Decorative Arts And History is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This art museum has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,393 travelers. Up to 313,790 people visit National Museum Of Ireland – Decorative Arts And History every year.

Dublin is also the home of Guinness Storehouse. Around 19,378 people have rated this tourist attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another place you’ll want to visit is St Patrick's Cathedral. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from a total of 21,374 reviews, a visit to this anglican or episcopal cathedral is a great idea.

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.

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 Quays, 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 Keoghs Cafe - a hidden culinary gem loved by locals and travelers alike. For those craving exquisite flavors, Café en Seine promises to deliver a feast for the senses.

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

On day 9 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Ireland, you’ll go deep into Dublin and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Dublin — 2 nights.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Iveagh Gardens, a remarkable urban park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,024 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at St Stephen's Green. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 29,869 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, Natural History Museum awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a national museum, this is a top pick rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,974 previous visitors. Each year, approximately 108,615 people travel to Dublin to experience it.

Your discovery of Dublin does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Dublin on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, Ireland.

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.

Start your flavor-filled journey at FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices. Looking for a taste of the unexpected? The Winding Stair offers delightful dishes and desserts. If you’re seeking a cozy setting and satisfying meal, Mayfield Restaurant is the perfect spot for you!

Have a toast to celebrate your relaxing road trip vacation in Ireland! Make every second of your affordable travels in Dublin count!

Get ready for another thrilling road trip adventure both in and around Dublin on day 10 of your affordable vacation in Ireland. You’ll continue your stay in Dublin for an additional 1 night. Explore more top attractions in Ireland, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Dublin, 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 39 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 Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 3,180 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit People's Park. People's Park is a park with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,465 reviews.

Forty Foot is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This promontory is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,373 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Killiney Hill Park. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 4,391 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Dundrum, 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 Dún Laoghaire to Dundrum may take around 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dundrum, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Marlay Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Dundrum, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,367 visitors.

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

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.

Discover the heart of Dublin through its culinary scene, starting with Bar Italia ristorante. 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 Slattery's, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Darkey Kelly's, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Cast your cares aside and enjoy the liberating experience of your laid-back, budget-friendly road trip through Ireland.

Day 11 of your road trip across Ireland is another proof that cheap holidays in Ireland can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 3 wonderful destinations — Kilkenny, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, and Cahir. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Cork, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Kilkenny’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Dublin behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 34 min. Kilkenny welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Kilkenny Castle. Previous visitors have rated this schloss country house museum an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,966 reviews.

Kilkenny Castle is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This schloss country house museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,597 reviews.

The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kilkenny behind. This drive usually takes around 53 min. The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Drop by the renowned Brú Ború Heritage Centre. This popular sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 189 visitors.

Another unforgettable place to experience is Rock Of Cashel. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,650 visitors, this castle deserves a spot on today's sightseeing itinerary.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cahir. This drive usually takes around 17 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Make Cahir Castle your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this castle an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,177 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Cork. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Cork, relax and restore your energy at your preferred affordable place to stay.

Savor the culinary delights of Cork, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

Start your flavor-filled journey at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, featuring local favorites at reasonable prices.

Cheers for a relaxing road trip vacation in Ireland! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Cork!

It’s soon time to say goodbye to Ireland as your leisurely vacation is about to end. Day 12 is your departure day and your last chance to make the most of your affordable travels in Cork.

Maximize your last day in Ireland and go on a shopping spree in Cork’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Ireland.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Cork is the remarkable National Monument. This monument and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 461 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 12 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Cork or just grab something light to keep you going.

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Cork, consider a top-rated restaurant like Dan Lowrey's Tavern, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. Ziggys Bar is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is Luigi Malones Cork, which is a great place to enjoy meals that will remind you of your fun memories in Cork.

You’ll then say farewell to Cork and begin your journey home. You’ll leave filled with unforgettable memories from your terrific and affordable slow-paced adventures in Ireland!