12-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin to Carlingford and Sligo and surrounding area

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 7 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Dublin, including a botanical garden, a church, a brewery, a park and much more! Start your day at National Botanic Gardens. This romantic botanical garden is a well-known place to see in Dublin. Then, wander over to Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. If historic sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find St Patrick's Cathedral. This symbolic church is a favorite among visitors.

Dublin offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Guinness Storehouse is a notable spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the brewery, don’t forget to check out the serene Phoenix Park. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this popular park.

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 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.

Have a memorable dining experience in Dublin by booking a table at Bastible, renowned as a 1-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in Dublin, Patrick Guilbaud shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious modern french cuisine. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in Dublin. This 2-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

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

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 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Dublin. You have 6 nights left in Dublin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Get ready for an exciting day in Dublin. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a zoo, a park, a museum, an art gallery and much more! Begin your adventure at Dublin Zoo. This is an interesting zoo you should not miss. Another must-see is St Stephen's Green, a well-known park in Dublin.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology. From there, take a leisurely stroll to National Gallery Of Ireland, another of the city’s notable attractions.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The Brazen Head, a top-rated dining spot in Dublin. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bewley's Grafton Street, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Dublin.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Bridge 1859 after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to The Dame Tavern for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Mary's Bar & Hardware is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

Day 4 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dublin for 5 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Immerse yourself in Dublin’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Trinity College Dublin. This standout university is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the history-steeped features of Book Of Kells, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Irish Whiskey Museum, a frequently visited museum. For a change of scene, check out Molly Malone Statue, known for its instagrammable features. We also recommend visiting Dublin Castle. This castle is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at SOLE Seafood & Grill, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Kehoes Pub? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Cobblestone as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", known for its lively atmosphere.

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

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 3 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Castleknock and Blanchardstown to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Immerse yourself in Dublin’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Farmleigh House & Estate. This visually striking palace is sure to ignite your curiosity.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to St. Catherine's Park (fingal), a locally appreciated 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.

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

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 Dublin, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Dublin is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Forty Foot, an intriguing beach that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find James Joyce Tower And Museum, enchanting visitors with its historic appeal. Continue your exploration at Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police. This marina is one of the town’s most often recommended spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Dublin at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit National Maritime Museum Of Ireland. After exploring the maritime museum, head to the curiosity-inducing People's Park.

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

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.

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.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

Wake up to day 8 of your extraordinary road trip in Ireland. With 1 night left in Dublin, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Today's adventure in Dublin promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Marlay Park. This picturesque park is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy The Obelisk, another historic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Killiney Hill Park, one of the town’s most locally appreciated attractions, known for its romantic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Killiney Hill Viewpoint. This awe-inspiring observation deck is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Cabinteely Park, a frequently visited park, and take a stroll around the area.

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

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 a lovely meal at Bar Italia ristorante, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Slattery's is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Darkey Kelly's. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Dublin tonight.

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