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

On day 2 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 Cork and Blarney. In the evening, you’ll end up in Galway, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cork, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Cork Opera House, a curiosity-inducing opera house in the city. Then, head to Fitzgerald's Park and soak in the ambiance of this serene park.

There are many interesting places to see in Cork, and when you are ready for more, go to Cork City Gaol. This is one of the city’s most beloved heritage-rich spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the locally renowned Blarney Castle & Gardens. Not far away, you'll also find Blarney Stone. This monument is a culturally significant highlight in Cork.

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

As you explore more of Galway, 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.

Start your culinary exploration in Galway by securing a reservation at Éan. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Aniar, celebrated for its delectable modern and irish menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday.

Keep the evening going at The Dew Drop Inn, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Freeney's Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Tigh Neachtain, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Ireland.

On day 3 of your road trip in Ireland, you’ll start and end your day in Galway, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Galway for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bunratty and Galway to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Cliffs Of Moher. This notable cliff is an eye-catching place to see in Galway. Continue your discovery at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, a historic castle with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Galway, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Eyre Square. This interesting public square offers a photogenic encounter with Galway. Next, make your way to Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway 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 Galway.

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

As you explore more of Galway, 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 meal at Apoema Bistro, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Finnegans is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Gemelle's. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Galway tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at The Crane Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to O'connor's Famous Pub. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Sally Longs Rock Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Ireland.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Ireland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Limerick, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. The first attraction of today is Quiet Man Bridge. This often recommended historical landmark is a visually striking place to see in Galway. Continue your discovery at Connemara National Park, an instagrammable national park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Galway, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Walled Victorian Garden. This curiosity-inducing botanical garden offers a romantic encounter with Galway. Next, make your way to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden 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 Galway.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Collins Bar Dooradoyle, a top-rated dining destination in Limerick. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Freddy’s Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bobby Byrne's. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Limerick this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Charlie Chaplin's Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to South's Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Glen Tavern provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

Day 5 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Limerick for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Start at the beloved Treaty Stone, a heritage-rich monument in Limerick. Next, go to King John's Castle.

After visiting Treaty Stone and King John's Castle, have a stroll along Limerick's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Saint Mary's Cathedral. This monumental church offers a unique experience. Hunt Museum is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Arthur's Quay Park, one of the most picture-perfect places to visit in Limerick.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Limerick. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Dine in style at The Old Quarter GastroPub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Cornstore Limerick boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Taikichi. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Limerick.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Fitzgerald's Bar. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Ma Hogans Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Portley's Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Ireland!

On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Killarney. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Killarney, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Limerick, including a castle, a monument, a museum, a waterfall, a national park and much more! Start your day at Ross Castle. This breathtaking castle is a locally appreciated place to see in Limerick. Then, wander over to Muckross Abbey. If respected sites excite you, this monument will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Muckross House. This historic museum is a favorite among visitors.

Limerick offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Torc Mountain is an often recommended spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the waterfall, don’t forget to check out the eye-catching Killarney National Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this notable national park.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Killarney. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Malarkey, a top-rated dining spot in Killarney. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Mad Monk by Quinlans, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Vendricks Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Killarney.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at John M. Reidy, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Courtney's Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Jimmy Brien's, another top-rated place in the area.

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

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Kinsale, Carrigtwohill, and Cobh, 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 Cork. You’ll stay here 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 Charles Fort. This breathtaking castle will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Fota Wildlife Park and learn what makes this visually striking wildlife reserve unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the locally appreciated Titanic Experience Cobh. After exploring the museum, head to Spike Island Tours Cobh. This increasingly popular castle is a highlight in Killarney.

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

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Goldie in Cork by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Goldie delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, acclaimed for its delectable japanese specialties. This local Bib Gourmand establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!