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

On day 2 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 Cork and Blarney. In the evening, you’ll end up in Limerick, where you will stay for 1 night.

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Cork, including a church, a park, a museum, a monument, a castle and much more! Start your adventure at Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral. This beloved church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Fitzgerald's Park located in Cork for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Cork City Gaol. Its history-steeped features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Blarney Stone. Visitors usually appreciate the culturally significant features of this monument. Next up is Blarney Castle & Gardens, a highly recommended castle.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Collins Bar Dooradoyle, an iconic dining spot in Limerick. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Freddy’s Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Limerick. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Bobby Byrne's, a hidden gem nestled in Limerick. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Charlie Chaplin's Pub. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to South's Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The Glen Tavern provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Bunratty, Kinvarra, and Bullaun. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Galway. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today's adventure in Limerick promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park. This awe-inspiring castle is a highlight of any visit in the village. Then, enjoy Cliffs Of Moher, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Aillwee Cave, one of the village’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its idyllic features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Dunguaire Castle. This enchanting castle is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Turoe Pet Farm, an underrated petting zoo, 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.

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

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Galway by booking a table at Éan, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional modern menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Aniar, renowned for its delectable modern and irish dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into The Dew Drop Inn. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Freeney's Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Tigh Neachtain, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Galway and The Municipal District of Trim. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Dublin, which will be your home away from home for 4 nights.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in Galway. Begin your sightseeing with Eyre Square. This interesting public square is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Spanish Arch, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Galway, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Cathedral Of Our Lady Assumed Into Heaven And St Nicholas, Galway. This worthwhile church is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Trim Castle, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Mulligan's, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. John Kavanagh The Gravediggers is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cassidy's ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Ireland!

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Dublin, where you'll stay for 3 nights more.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Dublin, including a castle, a botanical garden, a waterfall, a national park, a church and much more! Start your day at Malahide Castle & Gardens. This romantic castle is a well-known place to see in Dublin. Then, wander over to Powerscourt House & Gardens. If eye-catching sites excite you, this botanical garden will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Powerscourt Waterfall. This mesmerizing waterfall 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, Wicklow Mountains National Park is a frequently visited spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the national park, don’t forget to check out the culturally significant Glendalough Cathedral. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this worthwhile church.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Taste Food Company, 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 Sophie's Restaurant, Bar & Terrace, 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 Confession Box. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Dublin tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bruxelles, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Light House Cinema is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Bowe's Lounge Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 6 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Dublin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

A top thing to do today is to explore Grafton Street, a must-see street in Dublin. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is St Stephen's Green. This notable park is an eye-catching place to see in Dublin. Continue your discovery at National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology, a respected museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Dublin, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to National Gallery Of Ireland. This well-known art gallery offers a photogenic encounter with Dublin. Next, make your way to National Botanic Gardens to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Dublin.

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.

Keep the evening going at The Bridge 1859, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Dame Tavern, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Mary's Bar & Hardware, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Dublin for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Phoenix Park. This notable 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 Guinness Storehouse, one of the most well-known places to see in Dublin. This brewery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Molly Malone Statue. Wander around and soak in the noteworthy atmosphere this monument offers. Then, head to Book Of Kells, a top-rated museum 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 a delicious meal at SOLE Seafood & Grill, a highly-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're eager to try something different, consider Kehoes Pub, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Cobblestone. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar", where the evening is just getting started.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Dublin. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cork, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

A blend of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views await you in Dublin on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known monument, Ha'penny Bridge. Afterward, continue to Dublin Castle, a castle 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 St Patrick's Cathedral. This interesting church is an essential stop.

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.

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

Experience a symphony of flavors at Goldie in Cork by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Goldie delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious seafood cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, acclaimed for its delectable japanese specialties. This local Bib Gourmand establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

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