Cheap 5-Day Ireland Road Trip from Cork traveling east to Waterford City Metropolitan District and Dublin

Your exciting 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.

Make St Patrick's Bridge your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this bridge an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 607 reviews.

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 Cork that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Discover the heart of Cork through its culinary scene, starting with The Woodford. 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 Izz Cafe, where time-honored recipes are served. Or, explore Liberty Grill, renowned for its delicious offerings and cozy ambiance.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at The Shelbourne Bar and try some of its cocktails and snacks. The Oval is another great place to hang out and unwind.

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

On day 2 of your cheap holiday travels in Ireland, you’ll tour 3: Blarney, Cork, and Glanmire. You'll stay in Waterford City Metropolitan District for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Make Cork City Gaol your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this prison an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,919 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Fitzgerald's Park. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,170 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this park every year.

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

Make Blarney Castle & Gardens one of your first sightseeing stops in Blarney. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,764 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Blarney Stone is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This stone is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,710 reviews.

Upon your arrival in Glanmire, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Munster Technological University. This technological university is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,397 visitors.

Waterford City Metropolitan District 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.

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

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Bodega, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, Revolution Craft Beer & Whiskey Bar is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Emiliano's, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Geoff's Cafe Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The Gingerman, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, An Uisce Beatha also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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 3 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Ireland, you’ll experience 4 charming destinations — Kilkenny, Wicklow, The Municipal District of Bray, and Enniskerry. 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 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Waterford City Metropolitan District, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kilkenny. Your travel time is around 38 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Kilkenny Castle. This schloss country house museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,458 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Kilkenny Castle. This schloss country house museum has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,743 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Wicklow.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Wicklow Mountains National Park. This park is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 7,575 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. The Municipal District of Bray, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in The Municipal District of Bray, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Make Powerscourt Waterfall one of your first sightseeing stops in The Municipal District of Bray. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,309 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

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.

Merchant's Arch offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to The Brazen Head. Or, try The Stags Head, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Light House Cinema, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Ireland!

Day 4 of your self-drive vacation in Ireland will take you to the city of Cork, where you'll be staying for 1 night. On your way to Cork, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Ireland, including Dublin.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Dublin Castle. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in 31,463 reviews.

Next up is St Stephen's Green. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 29,521 visitors.

Another top sightseeing recommendation is Guinness Storehouse. This tourist attraction has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars in 19,154 reviews.

National Botanic Gardens is another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today. This botanical garden has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 15,718 reviews.

To continue your sightseeing, head over to Phoenix Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 37,298 reviews.

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

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Cork, 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 of exploring, unwind at the popular Luigi Malones Cork, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Costigan's Pub is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Hayfield Manor Hotel.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Ireland is about to end. Day 5 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Cork.

As you approach the end of your journey in Ireland, take a moment for some retail therapy in Cork’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Ireland, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Ireland with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

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 457 visitors.

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

If you have an appetite for one last delicious meal in Cork, consider a top-rated restaurant like White Rabbit Bar & BBQ, offering a menu of appetizing and affordable meals. The SpitJack Cork is an excellent alternative if you feel like trying something different. Another popular restaurant you could check out is The Raven Bar, 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. 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!