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

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dublin for 1 night 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 Grafton Street, a street that captures the true essence of Dublin. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders await you in Dublin on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating park, St Stephen's Green. Afterward, continue to Book Of Kells, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Dublin’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Dublin Castle. This well-known castle is an essential stop. Following that, head to St Patrick's Cathedral, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Phoenix Park, a notable park 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 delightful dinner at Taste Food Company, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Confession Box as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bruxelles. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Light House Cinema offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Bowe's Lounge Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing 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 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Cork. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cork, which will be your home away from home for 2 nights.

Dublin is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, an opera house, an art gallery, a monument and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the often recommended Shandon Bells & Tower St Anne's Church and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Cork Opera House, a picture-perfect opera house that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Crawford Art Gallery, one of the city’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the worthwhile St Patrick's Bridge.

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at The Woodford, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Greenes Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Izz Cafe is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cork.

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

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

On day 4 of your road trip in Ireland, you’ll start and end your day in Cork, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Cork for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Cork, Blarney, and Ballincollig to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral. This underrated church is an awe-inspiring place to see in Cork. Continue your discovery at Fitzgerald's Park, an eye-catching park with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Cork, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Cork City Gaol. This curiosity-inducing museum offers a heritage-rich encounter with Cork. Next, make your way to Blarney Stone to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Blarney Castle & Gardens, a captivating castle that’s sure to impress. If you’re up for more, end your self-guided sightseeing tour at Regional Park Ballincollig, an underrated park in the city. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Cork.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at South County Bar & Café, Douglas, a top-rated dining destination in Cork. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Liberty Grill, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Canty's Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cork this evening.

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

On day 5 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 Killarney. In the evening, you’ll end up in Killarney, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s itinerary in Cork covers several incredible sights, including a castle, a museum, a national park, a waterfall and much more! Start your adventure at Ross Castle. This increasingly popular castle is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the historic wonders of Muckross House, a must-see museum 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 Killarney National Park. This locally renowned national park offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Torc Mountain, where you can take in eye-catching features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Killarney, 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 Killarney. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

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.

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.

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 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 Cromwell Point Lighthouse. This romantic lighthouse is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the enchanting features of The Valentia Island Tetrapod Footprints, a must-visit archeological site 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 The Skellig Experience Visitor Centre, a beloved visitor center. For a change of scene, check out Kerry Cliffs (aillte Chiarraí), known for its serene features. We also recommend visiting Cúm An Easpaig (cliff View). This cliff is a must for anyone looking to experience the region to the fullest.

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

As you explore more of Killarney, 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 wonderful meal at Killarney Royal Hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Killarney. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hannigans Bar, Restaurant & Rooftop Balcony, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Curious Cat Café. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Killarney.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Paddy Sheehan The Grand Bar & Niteclub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

Dive into day 7 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 Galway. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Killarney, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Cliffs Of Moher, a locally renowned cliff in the city. Then, head to Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway and soak in the ambiance of this majestic church.

There are many interesting places to see in Killarney, and when you are ready for more, go to Eyre Square. This is one of the city’s most notable noteworthy spots of interest.

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 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Front Door Pub, a top-rated dining destination in Galway. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Creamery Cafe, Ice Cream, Bistro, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Busker Brownes. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Galway this evening.

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

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dublin, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Walled Victorian Garden. This worthwhile botanical garden is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Ionad Cultúrtha A Phiarsaigh, Conamara, one of the most beloved places to see in Galway. This cultural center is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.

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

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 dining experience at The Brazen Head, 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 Bewley's Grafton Street, 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 The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Dublin tonight.

Continue your lively evening at The Bridge 1859, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Dame Tavern is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Mary's Bar & Hardware ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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.