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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Cork and Blarney. 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 3 nights.

Start by visiting Cork Opera House, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching opera house is sure to impress. Next on your list is Fitzgerald's Park, another must-visit landmark and frequently visited park renowned for its serene features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Cork by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Cork City Gaol. This respected museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cork experience. We also recommend visiting Blarney Castle & Gardens, an interesting castle. Nearby, you'll also find Blarney Stone, ready to add charm to your journey.

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.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Éan in Galway by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Éan delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Aniar, acclaimed for its delectable modern and irish specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

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.

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

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Galway, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Start by visiting Cliffs Of Moher, a prime spot to begin your journey. This serene cliff is sure to impress. Next on your list is Aillwee Cave, another must-visit landmark and beloved cave renowned for its picturesque features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Galway by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Poulnabrone Dolmen. This standout archeological site is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Galway experience. We also recommend visiting Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, a popular castle.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Galway and your accommodation.

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.

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

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Crane Bar, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, O'connor's Famous Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Sally Longs Rock Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

Greet day 4 of your road trip in Ireland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Galway for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Kinvarra.

Galway is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a botanical garden, a monastery, a national park, a castle and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the underrated Walled Victorian Garden and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, a monumental monastery that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Connemara National Park, one of the village’s most curiosity-inducing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the frequently visited Dunguaire Castle.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Galleon Restaurant, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, John Keogh's Gastropub is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at RÉ NAO. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Galway tonight.

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

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

Dive into day 5 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 Limerick. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Today’s agenda in Galway includes a public square, a church, and a historical landmark. Eyre Square is must-visit public square and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway, an increasingly popular church, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Spanish Arch, an instagrammable historical landmark, also available for your discovery today.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Limerick. 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 Limerick's best restaurants.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Charlie Chaplin's Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to South's Pub, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, The Glen Tavern also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Day 6 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Limerick for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Limerick allows for both. Start by heading to Treaty Stone. This worthwhile monument provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover King John's Castle, a picture-perfect castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Saint Mary's Cathedral, an increasingly popular church. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the increasingly popular Hunt Museum. Round off your day at Arthur's Quay Park, another gem in Limerick with picture-perfect features to discover.

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.

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

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Killarney. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Killarney. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Limerick, including a castle, a monument, a museum, a national park, a waterfall and much more! Start your adventure at Ross Castle. This increasingly popular castle is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Muckross Abbey located in Limerick for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Muckross House. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Killarney National Park. Visitors usually appreciate the mesmerizing features of this national park. Next up is Torc Mountain, a highly recommended waterfall.

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.

Savor the flavors at Malarkey, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, The Mad Monk by Quinlans beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Vendricks Restaurant. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Killarney tonight.

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

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

On day 8 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 Kinsale, Carrigtwohill, and Cobh. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cork, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Charles Fort. This curiosity-inducing castle is a standout place to see in Killarney. Continue your discovery at Fota Wildlife Park, an eye-catching wildlife reserve with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Killarney, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this town so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Titanic Experience Cobh. This often recommended museum offers a historic encounter with Killarney. Next, make your way to Spike Island Tours Cobh 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 Killarney.

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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Goldie, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible seafood menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine is one of the best restaurants for japanese cuisine in Cork. This Bib Gourmand-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!