6-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin to Kilkenny and surrounding area
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-day road trip through Ireland. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Ireland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Dublin and 1 night in Kilkenny. 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 St Stephen's Green are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Dublin Castle, learn more about the unique Dublin Zoo, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of St Patrick's Cathedral.
As you hit the open road and drive through Dublin, Malahide, The Municipal District of Trim, Kilkenny, and Enniskerry, 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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Day 1
- Dublin - Arrival day
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- Ha'penny Bridge
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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 3 nights 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 Ha'penny Bridge, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Dublin. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Ireland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Peadar Kearney's Pub, 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 The Lotts Cafe Bar, 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 Merchant's Arch, a hidden gem nestled in Dublin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Mulligan's, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, John Kavanagh The Gravediggers offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Cassidy's provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in Ireland!
Day 2
- Dublin
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Drive 23 km, 1 hour 32 min
- Phoenix Park
- Dublin Zoo
- Guinness Storehouse
- Dublin Castle
- National Botanic Gardens
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Day 2 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Dublin. You have 2 nights left in Dublin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Start by visiting Phoenix Park, a prime spot to begin your journey. This mesmerizing park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Dublin Zoo, another must-visit landmark and notable zoo renowned for its gorgeous features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Dublin by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Guinness Storehouse. This respected brewery is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Dublin experience. We also recommend visiting Dublin Castle, a popular castle. Nearby, you'll also find National Botanic Gardens, ready to add charm to your journey.
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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Dublin. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Bastible, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Patrick Guilbaud is one of the best restaurants for modern french cuisine in Dublin. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bruxelles, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Light House Cinema offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Bowe's Lounge Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Ireland!
Day 3
- Dublin
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Drive 5 km, 55 min
- The Book of Kells Experience
- National Gallery of Ireland
- National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
- St Stephen's Green
- St. Patrick's Cathedral Park
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Day 3 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Dublin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Today’s itinerary in Dublin covers several incredible sights, including a museum, an art gallery, a park, a church and much more! Start your adventure at Book Of Kells. This locally renowned museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the photogenic wonders of National Gallery Of Ireland, a must-see art gallery in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology. This well-known museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to St Stephen's Green, where you can take in standout features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to St Patrick's Cathedral. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
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.
Visit Henry Street in Dublin for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Henry Street has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Dublin's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Brazen Head, a popular restaurant in Dublin. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Dublin at Bewley's Grafton Street, 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 The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Dublin tonight.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Bridge 1859, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Dame Tavern provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Mary's Bar & Hardware offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Head back to your accommodation in Dublin and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Ireland!
Day 4
- Dublin
- Kilkenny
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Drive 206 km, 2 hours 56 min
- Malahide Castle & Gardens
- Trim Castle
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Malahide and The Municipal District of Trim. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Kilkenny. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Start your adventure at Malahide Castle & Gardens. This well-known castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Trim Castle located in Dublin for another exciting encounter.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Kilkenny. Kilkenny offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Kilkenny's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Campagne, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Langtons Hotel Kilkenny is another top choice with a popular menu.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Dylan Whisky Bar, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Biddy Early´s provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Tynans Bridge House Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!
Day 5
- Kilkenny
- Dublin
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Drive 167 km, 3 hours 10 min
- Kilkenny Castle
- Kilkenny Castle Park
- Wicklow Mountains National Park
- Powerscourt Waterfall
- Powerscourt House & Gardens
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On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Kilkenny, Wicklow, The Municipal District of Bray, and Enniskerry. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dublin, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Kilkenny Castle. This notable castle is a history-steeped place to see in Kilkenny. Continue your discovery at Kilkenny Castle, an instagrammable park with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Kilkenny, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Wicklow Mountains National Park. This up-and-coming national park offers an eye-catching encounter with Kilkenny. Next, make your way to Powerscourt Waterfall to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Powerscourt House & Gardens, an often recommended botanical garden that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Kilkenny.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Dublin. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
Dine in style at SOLE Seafood & Grill, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kehoes Pub boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Cobblestone. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dublin.
Continue your lively evening at John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Ireland!
Day 6
- Dublin - Departure day
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- Molly Malone Statue
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Day 6 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, begin at Molly Malone Statue. This locally renowned monument is a popular place to see in the city.
Make the most of your final day in Ireland by visiting Dublin’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Temple Bar. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Ireland.
Before you conclude your road trip in Ireland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Dublin.
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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