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

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

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Cork today. One of the most locally appreciated attractions included on the itinerary is Cork Opera House. This romantic opera house will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Fitzgerald's Park and learn what makes this romantic park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Cork City Gaol. After exploring the museum, head to Blarney Castle & Gardens. This locally renowned castle is a highlight in Cork. As your day continues, stop by Blarney Stone, known for its picture-perfect features.

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 harmony of flavors at Éan in Galway by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its Bib Gourmand status, Éan offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious modern menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Aniar, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing modern and irish cuisine. This popular 1-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at The Dew Drop Inn, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Freeney's Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Tigh Neachtain provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Say good night to Galway and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Ireland!

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

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Galway, including a cliff, a castle, a public square, a church and much more! Start your day at Cliffs Of Moher. This romantic cliff is a well-known place to see in Galway. Then, wander over to Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. If stunning sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Eyre Square. This symbolic public square is a favorite among visitors.

Galway offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway is a curiosity-inducing spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

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.

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.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Ireland!

On day 4 of your road trip in Ireland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. In the evening, you’ll end up in Limerick, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and scenic views. Start at the curiosity-inducing Quiet Man Bridge, a respected historical landmark in Galway. Next, go to Connemara National Park.

After visiting Quiet Man Bridge and Connemara National Park, have a stroll along Galway's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Walled Victorian Garden. This eye-catching botanical garden offers a unique experience. Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal 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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Charlie Chaplin's Pub, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to South's Pub. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at The Glen Tavern, another top-rated place in the area.

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

On day 5 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Limerick. You’ll stay in Limerick for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Treaty Stone. This beloved monument is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is King John's Castle, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Saint Mary's Cathedral, one of the most underrated places to see in Limerick. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Hunt Museum. Wander around and soak in the photogenic atmosphere this museum offers. Then, head to Arthur's Quay Park, a top-rated park 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 Limerick. 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 The Old Quarter GastroPub, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Cornstore Limerick is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Taikichi. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Limerick tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Fitzgerald's Bar, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Ma Hogans Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Portley's Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Ireland!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Killarney, 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 Killarney. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Limerick, featuring family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Ross Castle, an often recommended castle in the town. Then, head to Muckross Abbey and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking monument.

There are many interesting places to see in Limerick, and when you are ready for more, go to Muckross House. This is one of the town’s most curiosity-inducing respected spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the worthwhile Torc Mountain. Not far away, you'll also find Killarney National Park. This national park is an eye-catching highlight in Limerick.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Malarkey, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Mad Monk by Quinlans offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Vendricks Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Killarney.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting John M. Reidy after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Courtney's Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Jimmy Brien's also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day 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 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.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Killarney. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await! Charles Fort is the perfect place to start. This castle is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in Killarney. Next, head to Fota Wildlife Park, a captivating wildlife reserve, known for its majestic features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Titanic Experience Cobh. This respected museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Spike Island Tours Cobh. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

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.

Discover the culinary delights of Cork by securing a reservation at Goldie. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of seafood cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, renowned for its delicious japanese dishes. This esteemed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!