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

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Ballincollig. You’ll stay in Cork for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Today's adventure in Cork promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Regional Park Ballincollig. This instagrammable park is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Fitzgerald's Park, another mesmerizing attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Cork City Gaol, one of the town’s most beloved attractions, known for its eye-catching features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Blarney Castle & Gardens. This history-steeped castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Blarney Stone, a worthwhile monument, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

Indulge in a shopping spree at Cork's top shopping destination, Douglas Farmers' Market! Enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace, browsing unique shops and discovering local treasures. Keep an eye out for artisan crafts, perfect for bringing a touch of Ireland into your home. Beyond shopping, Douglas Farmers' Market has plenty to offer, including essential services, seasonal events, and unique attractions for all ages.

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

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Cork by reserving a table at Goldie. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of seafood cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, renowned for its delectable japanese dishes. This distinguished Bib Gourmand-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cork.

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

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

Today's adventure in Cork promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Cork Opera House. This eye-catching opera house is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Crawford Art Gallery, another heritage-rich attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Elizabeth Fort, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral. This picture-perfect church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Munster Technological University, a frequently visited astronomical observatory, and take a stroll around the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Galway. Galway 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 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.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Éan, a Bib Gourmand restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Aniar is one of the best restaurants for modern and irish cuisine in Galway. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Galway for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore Salthill, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Galway. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions. Another must-visit is Shop Street, a street offering a different perspective on Galway.

Galway is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots! Start at Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway, an often recommended church that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Eyre Square, enchanting visitors with its noteworthy appeal. Continue your exploration at Spanish Arch. This historical landmark is one of the city’s most worthwhile spots.

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

Dine in style at Apoema Bistro, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Finnegans boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Gemelle's. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Galway.

Continue your lively evening at The Crane Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. O'connor's Famous Pub is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Sally Longs Rock Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Ireland!

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Galway, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the intriguing Walled Victorian Garden, an eye-catching botanical garden in Galway. Next, go to Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden.

After visiting Walled Victorian Garden and Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, have a stroll along Galway's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Connemara National Park. This scenic national park offers a unique experience. Dunguaire Castle is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

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

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

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

On day 6 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 Bunratty. In the evening, you’ll end up in Limerick, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and scenic views. Start at the up-and-coming Aillwee Cave, a visually striking cave in Galway. Next, go to Poulnabrone Dolmen.

Cliffs Of Moher is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, one of the most historic places to visit 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.

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.

Savor the flavors at Collins Bar Dooradoyle, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Freddy’s Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Bobby Byrne's. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Limerick tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Charlie Chaplin's Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out South's Pub, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Glen Tavern provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Limerick and Killarney. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Killarney, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Limerick, including a castle, a museum, a national park, a waterfall and much more! Start your day at King John's Castle. This breathtaking castle is an up-and-coming place to see in Limerick. Then, wander over to Ross Castle. If instagrammable sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Muckross House. This eye-catching 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, Killarney National Park is a locally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the national park, don’t forget to check out the mesmerizing Torc Mountain. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this beloved waterfall.

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

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

Dine in style at Malarkey, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Mad Monk by Quinlans boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Vendricks Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Killarney.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, John M. Reidy stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Courtney's Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Jimmy Brien's is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Killarney, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Immerse yourself in Killarney’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Conor Pass. This majestic cliff is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium, a must-visit aquarium in the region.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Coumeenoole, a curiosity-inducing beach. For a change of scene, check out Cé Dhún Chaoin / Dunquin Pier, known for its awe-inspiring features.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Killarney Royal Hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Curious Cat Café. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Killarney tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 9 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Kinsale, Carrigtwohill, and Cobh. 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.

Today’s itinerary in Killarney covers several incredible sights, including a castle, a wildlife reserve, and a museum. Start your adventure at Charles Fort. This intriguing castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Fota Wildlife Park, a must-see wildlife reserve in the town.

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 Titanic Experience Cobh. This intriguing museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Spike Island Tours Cobh, where you can take in gorgeous features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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 Dan Lowrey's Tavern, a top-rated dining spot in Cork. If you're in the mood for something new, try Ziggys Bar, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Luigi Malones Cork. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cork.

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