10-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin to Kilkenny and surrounding area
Description
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 10-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Dublin, Malahide, Castleknock, Dundrum, Dún Laoghaire, Curragha, The Municipal District of Trim, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, Cahir, Kilkenny, Laragh, Enniskerry, and The Municipal District of Bray.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Ireland takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 8 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, Castleknock, Dundrum, Dún Laoghaire, Curragha, The Municipal District of Trim, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, Cahir, Kilkenny, Laragh, Enniskerry, and The Municipal District of Bray, 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!
Itinerary summary
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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 7 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.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Dublin. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
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.
Dine in style at Peadar Kearney's Pub, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Lotts Cafe Bar boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Merchant's Arch. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dublin.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Mulligan's after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to John Kavanagh The Gravediggers, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Cassidy's also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Ireland!
Day 2
- Dublin
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Drive 15 km, 1 hour 8 min
- Phoenix Park
- Dublin Zoo
- Dublin Castle
- The Book of Kells Experience
- Trinity College Dublin
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Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 6 nights you have left in Dublin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Phoenix Park. This interesting park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Dublin Zoo, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Dublin Castle, one of the most locally renowned places to see in Dublin. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Book Of Kells. Wander around and soak in the respected atmosphere this museum offers. Then, head to Trinity College Dublin, a top-rated university that adds another dimension to your 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.
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.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Bastible, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional modern menu. Alternatively, if you're in the mood for something different, consider the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Patrick Guilbaud, known for its delicious modern french cuisine. Another highly-recommended place to eat in Dublin is Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition and a delicious modern menu.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Bruxelles, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Light House Cinema, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Bowe's Lounge Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Ireland.
Day 3
- Dublin
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Drive 12 km, 1 hour 14 min
- St Stephen's Green
- National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
- National Gallery of Ireland
- National Museum of Ireland – Natural History
- National Botanic Gardens
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On day 3 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 5 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Get ready for an exciting day in Dublin. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a museum, an art gallery, a botanical garden and much more! Begin your adventure at St Stephen's Green. This is a notable park you should not miss. Another must-see is National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, a well-known museum in Dublin.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to National Gallery Of Ireland. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Natural History Museum, another of the city’s increasingly popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at National Botanic Gardens, a romantic place of interest in the city.
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 explore more of Dublin, 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 a delicious dinner at The Brazen Head, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Bewley's Grafton Street offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dublin.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, The Bridge 1859 stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, The Dame Tavern offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Mary's Bar & Hardware is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Ireland!
Day 4
- Dublin
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Drive 5 km, 56 min
- Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin
- Dublinia
- St. Patrick's Cathedral Park
- Guinness Storehouse
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Day 4 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Dublin. You have 4 nights left in Dublin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Today's adventure in Dublin promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. This breathtaking church is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Dublinia, another heritage-rich attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to St Patrick's Cathedral, one of the city’s most captivating attractions, known for its majestic features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Guinness Storehouse. This historic brewery is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to 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.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dublin. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at SOLE Seafood & Grill, 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 Kehoes Pub, 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 The Cobblestone, a hidden gem nestled in Dublin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar" is an excellent place to start.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Ireland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Dublin
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Drive 76 km, 2 hours 9 min
- Malahide Castle & Gardens
- Malahide
- Santry Park
- Farmleigh House & Estate
- St. Catherine's Park
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Wake up to day 5 of your extraordinary road trip in Ireland. With 3 nights left in Dublin, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Dublin, including a castle, a beach, a park, a palace and much more! 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 Malahide located in Dublin for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Santry Park. Its stunning features will captivate you. After the park, continue your tour of the town with a visit to Farmleigh House & Estate. Visitors usually appreciate the romantic features of this palace. Next up is St. Catherine's Park (fingal), a highly recommended park.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Dublin and your accommodation.
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 delicious meal at The Stags Head, a highly-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're eager to try something different, consider Chapter One Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Bank on College Green. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Ireland!
Day 6
- Dublin
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Drive 39 km, 1 hour 31 min
- Marlay Park
- People's Park
- Grafton Street
- O'Connell Street
- Temple Bar
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On day 6 of your road trip in Ireland, you’ll start and end your day in Dublin, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Dublin for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Dundrum and Dún Laoghaire to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Grafton Street is a fantastic place you can explore today in Dundrum. This street is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Dundrum-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out O'Connell Street, a street offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.
Today's adventure in Dublin promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Marlay Park. This visually striking park is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy People's Park, another instagrammable attraction that never fails to captivate visitors.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Dublin.
As you explore more of Dublin, 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 a delightful dinner at Quays, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Keoghs Cafe? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Café en Seine as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Ireland.
Day 7
- Dublin
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Drive 107 km, 2 hours 2 min
- Emerald Park
- Hill of Tara
- Trim Castle
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Dublin, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Dublin today. One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Tayto Park. This photogenic amusement park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Hill Of Tara and learn what makes this picture-perfect archeological site unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the curiosity-inducing Trim Castle.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Dublin and your accommodation.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar, 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 The Winding Stair, 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 Mayfield Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Dublin tonight.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Ireland and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 8
- Dublin
- Kilkenny
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Drive 255 km, 3 hours 26 min
- Rock of Cashel
- Cahir Castle
- Kilkenny Castle Park
- Kilkenny Castle
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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 The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, Cahir, and Kilkenny. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kilkenny, where you will stay for 1 night.
Get ready for an exciting day in Dublin. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a castle and a park. Begin your adventure at Rock Of Cashel. This is a notable castle you should not miss. Another must-see is Cahir Castle, an increasingly popular castle in Dublin.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Kilkenny Castle. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Kilkenny Castle, another of the town’s locally renowned attractions.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Kilkenny. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Kilkenny. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
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.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Dylan Whisky Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Biddy Early´s, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Tynans Bridge House Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Ireland!
Day 9
- Kilkenny
- Dublin
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Drive 185 km, 3 hours 39 min
- Glendalough Cathedral
- Wicklow Mountains National Park
- Powerscourt Waterfall
- Powerscourt House & Gardens
- Bray Seafront
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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 4 vibrant destinations - Laragh, Wicklow, The Municipal District of Bray, and Enniskerry. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Dublin. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Start by visiting Glendalough Cathedral, a prime spot to begin your journey. This picture-perfect church is sure to impress. Next on your list is Wicklow Mountains National Park, another must-visit landmark and increasingly popular national park renowned for its eye-catching features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Kilkenny by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Powerscourt Waterfall. This romantic waterfall is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Kilkenny experience. We also recommend visiting Powerscourt House & Gardens, an up-and-coming botanical garden. Nearby, you'll also find Bray Seafront, ready to add charm to your journey.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Dublin, 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 Dublin. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Bar Italia ristorante, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Slattery's, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Darkey Kelly's. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Ireland.
Day 10
- Dublin - Departure day
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- Molly Malone Statue
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Day 10 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, we recommend visiting Molly Malone Statue, a noteworthy monument before you head out.
Maximize your last day in Ireland and go on a shopping spree in Dublin’s shopping center, the lively Henry Street. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey 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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