One-Week Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin traveling west to Galway, Killarney, Dingle, and Cork

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Experience the freedom of the open road in Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Dublin, Galway, Killarney, Dingle, Blarney, Cork, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, and Kilkenny.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Ireland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Dublin, 1 night in Galway, 2 nights in Killarney, 1 night in Dingle, and 1 night in Cork. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!

With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Ireland. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.

Upon arriving in Dublin, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Ireland on your own terms.

An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Ireland. Phoenix Park and Cliffs Of Moher are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Dublin Castle, learn more about the unique St Patrick's Cathedral, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Guinness Storehouse.

As you hit the open road and drive through Dublin, Galway, Killarney, Dingle, Blarney, Cork, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, and Kilkenny, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Ireland. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Ireland.

Throughout your road trip in Ireland, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Ireland.

This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.

The best services in Ireland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Ireland today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Trinity College Dublin
Ha'penny BridgeMolly Malone StatueDublin CastleSt. Patrick's Cathedral ParkPhoenix Park
Eyre SquareCathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, GalwayAillwee CaveCliffs of Moher
Ross CastleKnockreer PlaygroundMuckross HouseKillarney National ParkTorc Mountain
Conor Pass waterfallDingle Oceanworld AquariumDingle DistilleryCoumeenooleConor Pass
Blarney Castle & GardensSaint Fin Barre's CathedralCork City GaolFitzgerald's Park
Rock of CashelCathedral Church of St Canice & Round TowerSmithwick's Experience KilkennyKilkenny Castle
Guinness Storehouse

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Dublin - Arrival day
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  • Trinity College Dublin
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Welcome to Dublin, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Ireland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 1 night immersing yourself in Dublin's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Dublin is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Trinity College Dublin, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Dublin. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Ireland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Dublin, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Peadar Kearney's Pub, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Lotts Cafe Bar offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Merchant's Arch is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Dublin.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Mulligan's, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, John Kavanagh The Gravediggers provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Cassidy's offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Ireland!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Dublin
  • Galway
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Drive 214 km, 3 hours 7 min

  • Ha'penny Bridge
  • Molly Malone Statue
  • Dublin Castle
  • St. Patrick's Cathedral Park
  • Phoenix Park
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Dublin. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Galway, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Dublin, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at Ha'penny Bridge, a notable monument in the city. Then, head to Molly Malone Statue and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Dublin, and when you are ready for more, go to Dublin Castle. This is one of the city’s most captivating culturally significant spots of interest. After exploring the castle, visit the captivating St Patrick's Cathedral. Not far away, you'll also find Phoenix Park. This park is a romantic highlight in Dublin.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Galway, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Galway's best restaurants.

Savor the flavors at The Front Door Pub, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Busker Brownes. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Galway tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Dew Drop Inn, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Freeney's Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Tigh Neachtain offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Ireland!

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Galway
  • Killarney
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Drive 269 km, 4 hours 31 min

  • Eyre Square
  • Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway
  • Aillwee Cave
  • Cliffs of Moher
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Galway, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Killarney. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in Galway. Begin your sightseeing with Eyre Square. This locally renowned public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Galway, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Aillwee Cave. This increasingly popular cave is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Cliffs Of Moher, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Killarney. Killarney offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Killarney's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Malarkey, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, The Mad Monk by Quinlans offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Vendricks Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Killarney.

Round off your dining experience by visiting John M. Reidy, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Courtney's Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Jimmy Brien's likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Killarney and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Killarney
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Drive 35 km, 1 hour 45 min

  • Ross Castle
  • Knockreer Playground
  • Muckross House
  • Killarney National Park
  • Torc Mountain
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Day 4 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Killarney. You have 1 night left in Killarney. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the town.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Killarney, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Ross Castle, an increasingly popular castle in the town. Then, head to Knockreer Playground and soak in the ambiance of this mesmerizing playground.

There are many interesting places to see in Killarney, and when you are ready for more, go to Muckross House. This is one of the town’s most intriguing picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the popular Killarney National Park. Not far away, you'll also find Torc Mountain. This waterfall is a romantic highlight in Killarney.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Ireland is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.

As you explore more of Killarney, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Killarney Royal Hotel, a popular restaurant in Killarney. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Killarney at Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Curious Cat Café. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Killarney tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Ireland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Killarney
  • Dingle
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Drive 129 km, 2 hours 36 min

  • Conor Pass waterfall
  • Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium
  • Dingle Distillery
  • Coumeenoole
  • Conor Pass
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Kenmare and Dingle. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dingle, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Killarney today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Conor Pass Waterfall. This romantic waterfall will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium and learn what makes this eye-catching aquarium unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Dingle Distillery. After exploring the distillery, head to Coumeenoole. This often recommended beach is a highlight in Killarney. As your day continues, stop by Conor Pass, known for its eye-catching features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dingle. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dingle. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Dingle
  • Cork
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Drive 168 km, 3 hours 12 min

  • Blarney Castle & Gardens
  • Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral
  • Cork City Gaol
  • Fitzgerald's Park
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Blarney and Cork. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cork. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Dingle on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known castle, Blarney Castle & Gardens. Afterward, continue to Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral, a church every traveler should visit.

As you explore Dingle’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the town. Next, make your way to Cork City Gaol. This underrated museum is an essential stop. Following that, head to Fitzgerald's Park, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cork, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As you explore more of Cork, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Impala, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Shelbourne Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, The Oval provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Ireland.

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Cork
  • Dublin
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Drive 282 km, 3 hours 41 min

  • Rock of Cashel
  • Cathedral Church of St Canice & Round Tower
  • Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny
  • Kilkenny Castle
  • More

On day 7 of your road trip in Ireland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel and Kilkenny. In the evening, you’ll end up in Dublin, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Rock Of Cashel. This locally renowned castle is a historic place to see in Cork. Continue your discovery at St Canice's Cathedral, a symbolic church with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cork, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny. This curiosity-inducing brewery offers a historic encounter with Cork. Next, make your way to Kilkenny Castle to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cork.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Dublin. Dublin offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Dublin. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Taste Food Company, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at The Confession Box. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dublin tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bruxelles, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Light House Cinema, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bowe's Lounge Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Say good night to Dublin and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Ireland!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Dublin - Departure day
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  • Guinness Storehouse
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Day 8 of your road trip in Ireland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dublin before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Guinness Storehouse, a breathtaking brewery before you head out.

On your last day in Ireland, take time to indulge in shopping at Dublin’s popular marketplace, Temple Bar. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

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're eager to try something different, consider Bewley's Grafton Street, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

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!

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