5-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Cork to Galway
Description
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Description
Explore the best of Ireland on a 5-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Cork, Kinsale, Galway, and Clifden. This road trip itinerary in Ireland seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Ireland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Cork and 1 night in Galway. 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 Cork, 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. Cliffs Of Moher and Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Eyre Square, learn more about the unique Cliffs Of Moher, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Fitzgerald's Park.
As you hit the open road and drive through Cork, Kinsale, Galway, and Clifden, 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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Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Cork - Arrival day
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- Shandon
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Say hello to Cork! Your exciting road trip through Ireland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Cork for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
Cork 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 Shandon, a must-see neighborhood, and 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 Cork. 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 Cork, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at The Woodford, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Greenes Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Izz Cafe. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cork tonight.
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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 5-day road trip in Ireland!
Day 2
- Cork
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Drive 70 km, 1 hour 55 min
- Fitzgerald's Park
- Cork Opera House
- Elizabeth Fort
- Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral
- Charles Fort
- Ringfinnan Garden of Remembrance
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Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip in Ireland. With 1 night left in Cork, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cork, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Fitzgerald's Park, an increasingly popular park in the city. Then, head to Cork Opera House and soak in the ambiance of this romantic opera house.
There are many interesting places to see in Cork, and when you are ready for more, go to Elizabeth Fort. This is one of the city’s most intriguing stunning spots of interest. After exploring the castle, visit the curiosity-inducing Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral. Not far away, you'll also find Charles Fort. This castle is a historic highlight in Cork. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to Ringfinnan Garden Of Remembrance, a curiosity-inducing sculpture garden in the city.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Cork.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cork. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, a top-rated dining spot in Cork. If you're in the mood for something new, try Liberty Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Canty's Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cork.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Ireland.
Day 3
- Cork
- Galway
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Drive 278 km, 4 hours 44 min
- Aillwee Cave
- Cliffs of Moher
- Cliffs of Moher
- Eyre Square
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On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Galway. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Galway, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Cork. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a cave, a cliff, and a public square. Begin your adventure at Aillwee Cave. This is an up-and-coming cave you should not miss. Another must-see is Cliffs Of Moher, a captivating cliff in Cork.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Cliffs Of Moher. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Eyre Square, another of the city’s well-known attractions.
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 dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Galway. 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 dining experience at The Front Door Pub, a popular restaurant in Galway. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Galway at The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro, 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 Busker Brownes. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Galway tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Dew Drop Inn. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Freeney's Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Tigh Neachtain provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!
Day 4
- Galway
- Cork
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Drive 386 km, 5 hours 48 min
- Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway
- Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
- Derrigimlagh Discovery Point
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Galway and Clifden, 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.
Today’s itinerary in Galway covers several incredible sights, including a church, a monastery, and a historical landmark. Start your adventure at Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway. This locally appreciated church is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the respected wonders of Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, a must-see monastery 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 Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point @derrigimlagh. This up-and-coming historical landmark offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
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 are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Cork. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Dan Lowrey's Tavern, 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 Ziggys Bar, 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 Luigi Malones Cork, a hidden gem nestled in Cork. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Ireland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Cork - Departure day
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- Cork City Gaol
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Day 5 of your road trip in Ireland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cork 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 Cork City Gaol. This increasingly popular museum is a popular place to see in the city.
On your last day in Ireland, take time to indulge in shopping at Cork’s popular marketplace, Douglas Farmers' Market. 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 Cork.
Savor the flavors at The Imperial Hotel & SPA, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Tony's Bistro beckons with its unique menu offerings.
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!
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