Relaxed 10-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork to Galway and Dublin

On day 2 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area 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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cork. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes an astronomical observatory, a park, a museum, a monument, a castle and much more! Begin your adventure at Munster Technological University. This is a worthwhile astronomical observatory you should not miss. Another must-see is Fitzgerald's Park, an increasingly popular park in Cork.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Cork City Gaol. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Blarney Stone, another of the town’s up-and-coming attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Blarney Castle & Gardens, a visually striking place of interest in the town.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Ireland at Galway. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Galway, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Galway by securing a table at Éan. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Aniar, famous for its scrumptious modern and irish dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Galway and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Dew Drop Inn, known for its lively atmosphere. Freeney's Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Tigh Neachtain offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Ireland!

Day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Ireland is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Dublin for 6 nights.

Immerse yourself in Galway’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Eyre Square. This symbolic public square is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the grand features of Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway, a must-visit church in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Spanish Arch, an increasingly popular historical landmark.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Dublin. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Ireland by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Dublin by securing a reservation at Bastible. Esteemed for its 1-star Guide Michelin recognition, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Patrick Guilbaud, renowned for its delicious modern french dishes. This esteemed 2-star Michelin-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering modern menu. With its 2-star Michelin recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Dublin.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Mulligan's, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, John Kavanagh The Gravediggers offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Dublin. Cassidy's is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in Ireland!

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Ireland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Dublin. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Dublin. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Dublin!

Today’s agenda in Dublin includes a park, a museum, an art gallery, a botanical garden and much more! St Stephen's Green is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, an interesting museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to National Gallery Of Ireland, a respected art gallery, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Dublin. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the worthwhile Natural History Museum. If you’re looking for more, National Botanic Gardens is also a locally renowned attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

Ireland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Ireland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Dublin, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Don’t miss out on dining at The Brazen Head, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bewley's Grafton Street, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Dublin and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Bridge 1859. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, The Dame Tavern offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Mary's Bar & Hardware, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland, you’ll go deep into Dublin, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Dublin, and meet locals along the way!

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Dublin. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Trinity College Dublin is the perfect place to start. This university is one of the most intriguing places to visit in Dublin. Next, head to Book Of Kells, a locally renowned museum, known for its historic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Molly Malone Statue. This noteworthy monument is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Ha'penny Bridge and Dublin Zoo. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Ireland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Dublin offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places 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.

Savor the flavors at SOLE Seafood & Grill, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Kehoes Pub beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider The Cobblestone. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Dublin tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Dublin. The bars in Dublin make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Keep the evening going at John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Dublin can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Ireland!

Day 7 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

Dublin is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a park, a brewery, a church, a castle and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the popular Phoenix Park and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Guinness Storehouse, a breathtaking brewery that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to St Patrick's Cathedral, one of the city’s most popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the often recommended Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. When you're finished at the church, Dublin Castle awaits your visit. This castle is a breathtaking highlight on today's itinerary.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Ireland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Ireland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Dublin has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Dine in style at The Stags Head, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Chapter One Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Bank on College Green. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dublin.

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Dublin and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Ireland!

On day 8 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Dublin and visit amazing attractions in Enniskerry and Dundrum destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Dublin. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Grafton Street is a street that stands out as one of the must-see places in Enniskerry. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away. For another highlight, head to O'Connell Street, a street offering its own unique experiences.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Dublin today. One of the most frequently visited attractions included on the itinerary is Powerscourt House & Gardens. This serene botanical garden will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Marlay Park and learn what makes this majestic park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Dublin has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Make sure to reserve a table at Quays, an iconic dining spot in Dublin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Keoghs Cafe, a popular restaurant in Dublin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Café en Seine, a hidden gem nestled in Dublin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Ireland!

Day 9 of your easy and relaxed road trip through Ireland gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of Kilkenny. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Cork, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Dublin, including a park and a castle. Start your day with a visit to Kilkenny Castle. This locally renowned park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Kilkenny Castle, which may be one of the most enchanting places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Dublin on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Rock Of Cashel, a well-known castle in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Cahir Castle.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Cork. 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 laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Start your culinary exploration in Cork by securing a reservation at Goldie. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of seafood cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, celebrated for its delectable japanese menu. This acclaimed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Cork as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through Ireland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in Ireland!