12-Day Ireland road trip from Cork to Galway, Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District, Dublin, and Waterford City Metropolitan District

photo of view of Cork, Ireland.
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Summary

Duration
12 days & 11 nights
Available
Jan. - Dec.
Hotel
11 nights included
Car rental
12 days included
Flights
Optional
Travel app
All vouchers, itinerary, & map

Description

Have the adventure of a lifetime with this 12-day road trip through Ireland.

This incredible self-drive vacation package will take you through the best destinations in Ireland. With this perfectly planned travel package, you will stay 3 nights in Cork, 3 nights in Galway, 1 night in Carrick-on-Shannon, 3 nights in Dublin, and 1 night in Waterford, experiencing the ultimate road trip in Ireland. Your road trip will enable you to discover the country's most popular attractions and restaurants in Cork, Galway, Ballinasloe, Carrick-on-Shannon, Blanchardstown, Dublin, and Waterford. We'll help you experience the best 12 days in Ireland you can imagine so you can leave happy and inspired.

Upon arriving in Cork, you'll collect the rental vehicle of your choice. From there, you'll be off to discover some of the most popular attractions in Ireland, including the stunning Phoenix Park and Dublin Castle.

You'll have an extensive selection of accommodations to choose from throughout your road trip. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, catering to all budgets. Whether you're in the mood for luxurious five-star hotels or cozy, budget-friendly accommodations, we've got you covered.

Your road trip will bring you close to the best attractions and most incredible sights in Ireland. From the magnificent National Botanic Gardens to the breathtaking Guinness Storehouse and St Patrick's Cathedral, your journey will take you on a thrilling adventure through some of the most iconic travel destinations in the country. Your discovery doesn't end there. As you hit the open road and drive through Cork, Galway, Ballinasloe, Carrick-on-Shannon, Blanchardstown, Dublin, and Waterford, you'll also have plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Ireland. Whether you're exploring enchanting small towns, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there's always something new and exciting to experience in Ireland.

Add tours and tickets to each day of your trip to make the most of your time in Ireland. You'll have the opportunity to choose from the best tours and activities that your travel destinations have to offer, meaning you'll never have a boring moment on your road trip through Ireland.

Your travel plan itinerary also gives you multiple opportunities to look for souvenirs to memorialize your road trip in Ireland.

You'll return home having experienced the very best of everything Ireland has to offer. Each twist and turn of the journey adds a unique charm to your travel tales.

You can customize each day of your road trip vacation itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking. Enjoy the benefits of exploring all these great attractions at your own speed.

Your travel plan includes everything you need to experience the best of Ireland. You'll be booked at the best hotels for 11 nights, with plenty of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll provide you with the best car rental for 11 days during your self-drive road trip, including CDW insurance.

You'll have access to 24/7 travel support, a personal travel agent, and a step-by-step guide via our flexible mobile app. You can choose and add your flight preferences as needed. Make your vacation in Ireland extra special by adding tours and tickets to each day of your itinerary.

The best services in Ireland fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your self-drive road trip in Ireland today!

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Included

Hotel, 11 nights
Rental car, 12 days
CDW Insurance
Step-by-step guide
Personal travel agent
24/7 travel support

Destinations

Swords
 Cork, Ireland. Fishing boats inside the port of Cobh. A city with colorful houses in Ireland.Cork / 3 nights
Limerick -  in IrelandLimerick
Photo of the waterfront at Waterford in Ireland.Waterford / 1 night
Galway - city in IrelandGalway / 3 nights
Photo of Carrick-on-Shannon, County Leitrim, Ireland viewed from across River Shannon against backdrop of blue sky.Carrick-on-Shannon / 1 night
Photo of River Nore in Kilkenny in Ireland by Taylor Floyd MewsKilkenny
Aerial view of Dublin city center at sunset with River Liffey and Samuel Beckett bridge in the middle. Bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava.Dublin / 3 nights

Map

Attractions

Photo of Phoenix park with a beautiful view, Dublin, Ireland.Phoenix Park
St Stephen's GreenSt Stephen's Green
Dublin CastleDublin Castle
Photo of the entrance to Dublin Zoo in the Phoenix park, Dublin. Opened in 1831 it covers an area of 28 hectares in the heart of Dublin City.Dublin Zoo
Photo of the St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin, Ireland.St Patrick's Cathedral
Photo of Guinness Storehouse, Popular Tourist Attraction in Dublin, Ireland.Guinness Storehouse
Photo of Greenhouse in The National Botanic Garden in Glasnevin, Dublin, Ireland.National Botanic Gardens
Malahide Castle & Gardens, Malahide Demesne, Malahide-West ED, Malahide ED, Fingal, County Dublin, Leinster, IrelandMalahide Castle & Gardens
Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden, Pollacappul, Rinvyle ED, Conamara Municipal District, County Galway, Connacht, IrelandKylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
Photo of Ruins of the medieval old huge cathedral among tombstones on Rock of Cashel, Ireland.Rock of Cashel
Photo of view of famous illuminated Ha Penny Bridge in Dublin, Ireland at sunset.Ha'penny Bridge
Photo of fountain depicting Galway Hookers in Eyre Square with Browne doorway in background in Galway, Ireland.Eyre Square
Photo of the Book of Kells exhibition at the library of Trinity College Dublin, Ireland.Book of Kells
Photo of exterior view of the National Museum of Ireland .National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
Kilkenny CastleKilkenny Castle
Kilkenny Castle. Historic landmark in the town of Kilkenny in Ireland.Kilkenny Castle Park
Blarney Castle & Gardens, Blarney, Blarney ED, Blarney - Macroom, Cork, County Cork, Munster, IrelandBlarney Castle & Gardens
Powerscourt House & Gardens, Powerscourt Demesne, Enniskerry ED, The Municipal District of Bray, County Wicklow, Leinster, IrelandPowerscourt House & Gardens
Wicklow Mountains National Park, Ballinastoe, Calary ED, The Municipal District of Wicklow, County Wicklow, Leinster, IrelandWicklow Mountains National Park
Majestic water cascade of Powerscourt Waterfall, the highest waterfall in Ireland. Famous tourist atractions in co. Wicklow, Ireland.Powerscourt Waterfall
photo of Trim Castle .
Connemara National Park, Addergoole, Ballynakill ED, Conamara Municipal District, County Galway, Connacht, IrelandConnemara National Park
Glencar Waterfall, Largandoon, Glencar ED, Manorhamilton Municipal District, County Leitrim, Connacht, IrelandGlencar Waterfall
Spanish ArchSpanish Arch
Photo of Fitzgerald’s Park is on the Cork and was founded for the Cork Exhibition which was attended by Queen Victoria.Fitzgerald's Park
photo of King Johns Castle Limerick City .King John's Castle
photo of Cahir castle in county Tipperary, Ireland .Cahir Castle
Dunguaire CastleDunguaire Castle
photo of view of Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway, Ireland.Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway
photo of Newgrange .Newgrange
photo of Hill of Tara with blue sky, Ireland .Hill of Tara
Galway Atlantaquaria, National Aquarium of Ireland, Lenaboy, Salthill, Galway City, County Galway, Connacht, IrelandGalway Atlantaquaria, National Aquarium of Ireland
House of Waterford Crystal, Park, Waterford City Metropolitan District, Waterford, County Waterford, Munster, IrelandHouse of Waterford Crystal
photo of Blarney Castle, Co.Cork, Ireland, home of world famous Blarney Stone .Blarney Stone
photo of view of Knowth tumulus in the historical area of Brú na Bóinne, Irland.Brú na Bóinne
photo of view of MTU Kerry North Campus, Tralee, Cork, Ireland.Munster Technological University
photo of Front old City Gaol in County Cork. Republic of Ireland. Historic prison was built in 1824.Cork City Gaol
photo of view of Cork Opera House, Cork, Irland.Cork Opera House
Walled Victorian Garden
Regional Park Ballincollig(Páirc Réigiúnach Bhaile an Chollaigh), Great Island, Ballincollig ED, Ballincollig - Carrigaline, Cork, County Cork, Munster, IrelandRegional Park Ballincollig
photo of view Beautiful Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral, cork, Ireland..Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral
photo of Galway City Museum Galway, Irland.Galway City Museum
Great Escape Rooms, Townparks, St Nicholas, Galway City, County Galway, Connacht, IrelandGreat Escape Rooms
The Latin Quarter, Townparks, Eyre Square, Galway City, County Galway, Connacht, IrelandThe Latin Quarter
Waterford Treasures: Medieval Museum (Treasures of Medieval Waterford), Custom House B, Waterford City Metropolitan District, Waterford, County Waterford, Munster, IrelandWaterford Treasures: Medieval Museum (Treasures of Medieval Waterford)
photo of view of Aerial view of Oranmore Castle 800 year old national monument, Cork, Irland.National Monument
King Of The Vikings, Custom House B, Waterford City Metropolitan District, Waterford, County Waterford, Munster, IrelandKing Of The Vikings
Treaty Stone, Deaneryland, Castle B, The Metropolitan District of Limerick City, County Limerick, Munster, IrelandTreaty Stone
photo of Aerial view on Salmon Weir Bridge over river Corrib, Cloudy sky, Galway city, Ireland .Salmon Weir Bridge
Red Abbey Tower, South Gate A, Cork, County Cork, Munster, IrelandRed Abbey Tower

Flights
Yes
No

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy

Travel details

Flights

Round trip
Economy
Round trip
Economy
Travel dates

Include flights?

Yes
No

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Car
Yes
No

Car

Small car

Small car

Category
small car
Transmission
People
Large bags
Medium car

Medium car

Category
Medium
Transmission
People
Large bags
Premium car

Premium car

Category
premium car
Transmission
People
Large bags

Hotels

Personalize your itinerary

Day 1 – Cork - arrival day

Day 1

Day 1 – Cork - arrival day

  • Cork - Arrival day
  • More
  • National Monument
  • More

Your road trip adventure in Ireland begins as soon as you reach the incredible city of Cork. You’ll stay in Cork for 3 nights, experiencing all the best things to do and see in the city.

Cork has many popular destinations you can explore. You could visit attractions like the incredible National Monument. This attraction is a monument and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 455 visitors.

When you're done sightseeing for the day, you'll check in at one of the best hotels or places to stay in the city. Your stay promises to be a delightful continuation of your exploration, providing comfort and tranquility to recharge for the adventures that lie ahead.

When you’re ready for dinner, we recommend you try one of the best restaurants in the city of Cork, Liberty Grill. The restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,609 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Cork is Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 792 customers.

Locals recommend Izz Cafe as one of the best restaurants in the city of Cork. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 731 customers.

Cork also has several great bars that will fit all travel budgets. One of the best bars in the city of Cork is Sin é. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,654 customers.

Another of the best bars in the city of Cork is The Oliver Plunkett. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,192 customers.

Enjoy toasting the start of your 12-day vacation in Ireland!

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Experiences

Day 2 – Cork

Day 2

Day 2 – Cork

  • Cork
  • More

Drive 45 km, 1 hour 16 min

  • Regional Park Ballincollig
  • Fitzgerald's Park
  • Cork City Gaol
  • Blarney Castle & Gardens
  • Blarney Stone
  • More

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

There are plenty of attractions, markets, and restaurants for you to experience today in the city of Cork. Your accommodation will be conveniently located close to several of the best attractions you won't want to miss.

You'll be able to visit more of the best travel destinations in the city of Cork, like the extraordinary Regional Park Ballincollig. This attraction is a park and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,109 visitors.

Another of the best travel destinations in Cork is the spectacular Fitzgerald's Park. This attraction is a park and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,130 visitors.

You could then travel to the amazing Cork City Gaol. This prison has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,875 visitors.

Blarney Castle & Gardens is another stop you might want to add to your itinerary. This park is a popular destination among visitors in Cork. Rated at an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,638 visitors, it’s one many travelers find worthy a visit.

Your discovery of Cork does not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Cork on this day of your trip.

After a long day of exploring some of the most popular attractions in Ireland, be sure to eat at Market Lane, which is considered one of the best restaurants in the city of Cork. This restaurant is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,609 customers.

Alternatively, another of the top restaurants in the city of Cork is the popular The SpitJack Cork. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,934 customers.

Another great restaurant we recommend in the city of Cork is Luigi Malones Cork. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,073 customers.

When you’ve finished your meal, The Old Town Whiskey Bar at Bodega is one of the best bars in the city of Cork for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,534 customers.

Cornstore Cork is another of the most popular bars in the city of Cork. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,516 customers.

Alternatively, a great bar that locals enjoy in the city of Cork is A Bróg Bar + Kitchen. A Bróg Bar + Kitchen has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,592 customers.

Stopping at one of these popular bars is the perfect way to celebrate another incredible day in the magical city of Cork!

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Experiences

Day 3 – Cork and Galway

Day 3

Day 3 – Cork and Galway

  • Cork
  • Limerick
  • Galway
  • More

Drive 223 km, 3 hours 40 min

  • Cork Opera House
  • Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral
  • Munster Technological University
  • King John's Castle
  • Treaty Stone
  • More

You’ll stay in Galway for 3 nights.

One of the best places to explore in the city of Cork today is Cork Opera House. This excellent attraction is an opera house that has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,802 visitors.

We also recommend you visit the amazing Saint Fin Barre's Cathedral, an outstanding anglican or episcopal cathedral, in the city of Cork. Around 2,296 travelers rated this attraction with 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Another of the best travel destinations you can visit in the city of Cork is Munster Technological University. This amazing attraction is a technological university and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,360 visitors.

To experience the local culture, see more of Ireland, and meet new people at the same time, we highly recommend you go on a tour. You’ll find many top-rated and popular tours in the city, offering unique experiences that will inspire you. On this tour, you can go on an epic adventure to some of the best places to visit in Ireland. You also get to admire popular places of interest.

You could then travel to King John's Castle for some unforgettable sightseeing experience. This popular attraction is a castle and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,569 visitors.

This outstanding top-tier point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 390 travelers.

You’ll have your choice of the best hotels and places to stay in the city of Galway.

After a long day of traveling and sightseeing, we recommend you try one of the best restaurants in the city of Galway, Ard Bia at Nimmos. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,099 customers.

Locals recommend The Quay Street Kitchen as one of the best restaurants in the city of Galway. The Quay Street Kitchen is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,029 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Galway is Esquires - The Organic Coffee Co (Eyre Square). This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,000 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the top bars in the city of Galway, O'Connor's Famous Pub. This popular bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,806 customers.

You could also relax with a drink at a popular bar like Tigh Chóilí. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,662 customers.

O'Connell's Bar Galway is a popular bar that locals recommend in the city of Galway. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,659 customers.

Be sure to celebrate another day of your incredible road trip adventure through Ireland with a toast!

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Experiences

Day 4 – Ballinasloe Municipal District and Galway

Day 4

Day 4 – Ballinasloe Municipal District and Galway

  • Galway
  • More

Drive 215 km, 3 hours 49 min

  • Connemara National Park
  • Walled Victorian Garden
  • Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden
  • Dunguaire Castle
  • More

On day 4 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Galway, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. You still have 2 nights left in Galway.

Today you'll explore the city of Ballinasloe Municipal District. One of the best travel destinations you can make time for at the start of this day is Connemara National Park. This incredible attraction is a park and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 5,608 visitors.

Walled Victorian Garden is another popular attraction you'll visit in the city of Ballinasloe Municipal District. This spectacular attraction is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,302 visitors.

Another of the best travel destinations you can visit in the city of Ballinasloe Municipal District is Kylemore Abbey & Victorian Walled Garden. This amazing attraction is a cafe and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,480 visitors.

Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit the outstanding Dunguaire Castle. This best-rated sightseeing destination and place of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,844 visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind today, you can join a popular tour. Check out all the fun and eye-opening experiences you can try out in Ireland to make your travel experience in the country more memorable.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your accommodation in the city of Galway.

We recommend eating at one of the best restaurants in the city of Galway, like Scotty's Burgers & Wings, Galway, Ireland. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 616 customers.

OSTERIA da Simone : Italian restaurant & pizzeria is another of the best restaurant options in the city of Galway. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 588 customers.

Locals enjoy Zappis Restaurant, one of the most popular restaurants in the city of Galway. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 505 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city of Galway, Caribou. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 979 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like A Púcán. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,188 customers.

The Front Door Pub is another of the best bars in the city of Galway. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,692 customers.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your road trip adventure through Ireland!

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Experiences

Day 5 – Galway

Day 5

Day 5 – Galway

  • Galway
  • More

Drive 5 km, 23 min

  • The Latin Quarter
  • Spanish Arch
  • Galway City Museum
  • Galway Atlantaquaria, National Aquarium of Ireland
  • More

On day 5 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Galway, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. You still have 1 night left in Galway.

Today you'll explore the city of Galway. One of the best travel destinations you can make time for at the start of this day is The Latin Quarter. This incredible attraction is a best-rated sightseeing destination and has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,073 visitors.

Spanish Arch is another popular attraction you'll visit in the city of Galway. This spectacular attraction is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars by 5,733 visitors.

Another of the best travel destinations you can visit in the city of Galway is Galway City Museum. Attracting 161,558 annual visitors, it's clear that Galway City Museum is one of the top sights of the area. This amazing attraction is a city museum and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,211 visitors.

To do something one-of-a-kind today, you can join a popular tour. Check out all the fun and eye-opening experiences you can try out in Ireland to make your travel experience in the country more memorable.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your accommodation in the city of Galway.

We recommend eating at one of the best restaurants in the city of Galway, like The Kings Head Bistro. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,233 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city of Galway, The Skeff Bar. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,056 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like The Quays Bar and Restaurant. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,514 customers.

The Dáil Bar Galway is another of the best bars in the city of Galway. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,040 customers.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your road trip adventure through Ireland!

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Experiences

Day 6 – Galway and Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District

Day 6

Day 6 – Galway and Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District

  • Galway
  • Carrick-on-Shannon
  • More

Drive 218 km, 3 hours 19 min

  • Eyre Square
  • Great Escape Rooms
  • Salmon Weir Bridge
  • Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway
  • Glencar Waterfall
  • More

Get ready to experience some of the most famous attractions in the area!

One of the best places to visit in the city of Galway is the amazing Eyre Square. This attraction is a square and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,014 visitors.

You could also go sightseeing at the incredible Great Escape Rooms. This must-see tourist destination and travel destination has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,150 visitors.

Salmon Weir Bridge is another popular attraction you can explore in the city of Galway. This well-known attraction, a spectacular weir, has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 209 reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations you can visit in the city of Galway is Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway. This attraction is an amazing catholic cathedral and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,467 visitors.

Joining a top-rated tour in Galway is another excellent way to spend your new day in Ireland. The best tours in this travel destination will take you on an exploration to some of Ireland’s most well-known attractions and best-kept secrets.

With this tour, you’ll set out on a journey to Ireland’s most interesting sights. As you go along this remarkable tour, you’ll also have the unique opportunity to catch a glimpse of Ireland’s scenic spots.

You could then travel to the amazing Eyre Square for some sightseeing. This popular attraction is a square and has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 13,014 visitors.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding Great Escape Rooms. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,150 visitors, this must-see tourist destination deserves a spot on travelers' bucket lists.

We also recommend a visit to the popular Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven and St Nicholas, Galway. This attraction, a stunning catholic cathedral, has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,467 travelers.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to the fantastic Glencar Waterfall. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,457 travelers, this is one attraction many highly recommend.

You’ll also have your choice of the best hotels and places to stay in the city of Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District.

After dinner, visit The Oarsman, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 725 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Dunne's Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 434 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure through Ireland!

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Experiences

Day 7 – Blanchardstown and Dublin

Day 7

Day 7 – Blanchardstown and Dublin

  • Swords
  • Dublin
  • More

Drive 235 km, 3 hours 40 min

  • Hill of Tara
  • Brú na Bóinne
  • Newgrange
  • Malahide Castle & Gardens
  • More

Rise and shine on day 7 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you'll wake up in Carrick-on-Shannon and embark on a scenic drive to Dublin, where you'll stay at one of the best hotels for 3 nights. Seize the opportunity to explore spectacular attractions in Carrick-on-Shannon before you reach your end destination for the day.

It’s hard not to feel excited about visiting attractions in a destination as lovely as Carrick-on-Shannon. This attraction is a castle that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 6,060 visitors.

You could also stop at the incredible Hill of Tara. This attraction, a beloved archaeological site, has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,251 visitors.

If you have time, another site you could explore in Carrick-on-Shannon is the stunning Newgrange. This passage tombs in ireland and travel destination has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,283 visitors.

One of the most popular attractions you can visit is the remarkable Malahide Castle & Gardens. This attraction is a best-rated sightseeing destination that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,097 visitors.

We recommend you end the day with a dinner at a popular restaurant near your accommodation, like FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar. This restaurant offers various delicious and comforting meals and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,660 customers.

Locals also recommend PHX Bistro, another of the best restaurants in Dublin. PHX Bistro is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,038 customers.

If you feel like having something else, check out the menu at The Vintage Kitchen. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 911 customers and is a great place to enjoy a lovely meal.

After dinner, visit Shouk to enjoy a couple of drinks and relax. This bar is one of the best in Dublin, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,608 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like The Temple Bar Pub. This bar is a great spot to meet new friends and celebrate your vacation. The Temple Bar Pub has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,491 customers.

The Brazen Head is another bar locals often recommend. This bar offers a great variety of snacks and drinks and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,980 customers.

End your day by raising your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure in Ireland, and look forward to more great days to come!

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Experiences

Day 8 – Dublin

Day 8

Day 8 – Dublin

  • Dublin
  • More

Drive 23 km, 1 hour 20 min

  • Phoenix Park
  • Dublin Zoo
  • Dublin Castle
  • Ha'penny Bridge
  • National Botanic Gardens
  • More

On day 8 of your road trip across Ireland, you’ll have the perfect day exploring the wonderful city of Dublin. You’ll stay in Dublin for 2 nights, meaning you have plenty of time to discover the best things to see and do in the area.

We recommend you stay at the Marlin Hotel Dublin, one of the best 4-star hotels in the city of Dublin. This hotel has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 10,854 guests.

The best luxury hotel option in the city of Dublin is the 5-star Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel. The hotel is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,989 guests.

One of the best hotels we recommend in the city of Dublin is the 3-star Holiday Inn Express Dublin City Centre. This 3-star hotel has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars by 6,645 guests.

Our flexible booking system will automatically provide you with the best alternatives if these hotels are not available.

You'll have easy access to popular travel destinations in the city of Dublin, like the outstanding Phoenix Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 37,056 visitors.

Dublin Castle is another popular attraction you could visit in the city of Dublin. This incredible attraction is a top-tier point of interest and has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 31,135 visitors.

One of the best attractions you could visit in the city of Dublin is the extraordinary Ha'penny Bridge. This footbridge is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,192 reviews.

As the day moves along, one attraction you’ll probably want to visit is the incredible National Botanic Gardens. Around 15,536 visitors have given this botanical garden an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Come to Dublin prepared by adding some tours and tickets to your vacation package. Book a popular and budget-friendly activity you can do on this day in Dublin.

After a day of exploring, try one of the best restaurants in the city of Dublin.

We recommend you eat at a delicious restaurant that locals enjoy, like Chapter One Restaurant, after your day of exploring the city of Dublin. This excellent restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 849 customers.

Mr Fox is another of the best restaurants in the city of Dublin. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 690 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Dublin is The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,719 customers.

Locals recommend The Church Café, Late Bar & Restaurant, one of the best bars in the city of Dublin, for a refreshing evening drink to finish your day. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,779 customers.

Alternatively, you could choose another of the most popular bars in the city of Dublin, Porterhouse Temple Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 7,884 customers.

Light House Cinema is also one of the best bars in the city of Dublin. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,744 customers.

It's a perfect place to relax and enjoy another amazing evening in Ireland.

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Experiences

Day 9 – Dublin

Day 9

Day 9 – Dublin

  • Dublin
  • More

Drive 7 km, 1 hour 9 min

  • Guinness Storehouse
  • St Patrick's Cathedral
  • St Stephen's Green
  • National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology
  • Book of Kells
  • More

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Dublin has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Dublin by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

There are plenty of attractions, markets, and restaurants for you to experience today in the city of Dublin. Your accommodation will be conveniently located close to several of the best attractions you won't want to miss.

You'll be able to visit more of the best travel destinations in the city of Dublin, like the extraordinary Guinness Storehouse. This attraction is a tourist attraction and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 18,823 visitors.

Another of the best travel destinations in Dublin is the spectacular St Patrick's Cathedral. This attraction is an anglican or episcopal cathedral and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 20,815 visitors.

You could then travel to the amazing St Stephen's Green. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 29,325 visitors.

National Museum of Ireland – Archaeology is another stop you might want to add to your itinerary. This national museum is a popular destination among visitors in Dublin. Rated at an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 12,172 visitors, it’s one many travelers find worthy a visit. In one single year, this attraction usually gets more than 370,965 visitors.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, then consider Book of Kells. Book of Kells is a codex and popular attraction in Dublin. More than 13,007 visitors have rated this place an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Your discovery of Dublin does not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Dublin on this day of your trip.

After a long day of exploring some of the most popular attractions in Ireland, be sure to eat at O'Donoghues Bar, which is considered one of the best restaurants in the city of Dublin. This restaurant is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,110 customers.

Alternatively, another of the top restaurants in the city of Dublin is the popular Lemon Jelly Cafe. This restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,104 customers.

When you’ve finished your meal, The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant is one of the best bars in the city of Dublin for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,719 customers.

The Stags Head is another of the most popular bars in the city of Dublin. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,691 customers.

Alternatively, a great bar that locals enjoy in the city of Dublin is The Celt. The Celt has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,507 customers.

Stopping at one of these popular bars is the perfect way to celebrate another incredible day in the magical city of Dublin!

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Experiences

Day 10 – Wicklow and Waterford City Metropolitan District

Day 10

Day 10 – Wicklow and Waterford City Metropolitan District

  • Kilkenny
  • Waterford
  • More

Drive 231 km, 3 hours 52 min

  • Powerscourt House & Gardens
  • Powerscourt Waterfall
  • Wicklow Mountains National Park
  • Kilkenny Castle Park
  • Kilkenny Castle
  • More

You’ll stay in Waterford City Metropolitan District for 1 night.

One of the best places to explore today is Powerscourt House & Gardens. This excellent attraction is a park that has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 9,337 visitors.

Around 6,206 travelers rated this attraction with 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Another of the best travel destinations you can visit is Wicklow Mountains National Park. This amazing attraction is a park and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 7,553 visitors.

To experience the local culture, see more of Ireland, and meet new people at the same time, we highly recommend you go on a tour. On this tour, you can go on an epic adventure to some of the best places to visit in Ireland. You also get to admire popular places of interest.

You could then travel to Kilkenny Castle for some unforgettable sightseeing experience. This popular attraction is a schloss country house museum and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,609 visitors.

This outstanding schloss country house museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,284 travelers.

You’ll have your choice of the best hotels and places to stay in the city of Waterford City Metropolitan District.

After a long day of traveling and sightseeing, we recommend you try one of the best restaurants in the city of Waterford City Metropolitan District, Emiliano's. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 945 customers.

Locals recommend Momo Restaurant as one of the best restaurants in the city of Waterford City Metropolitan District. Momo Restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 854 customers.

Another of the best restaurants in the city of Waterford City Metropolitan District is McLeary's Restaurant. This restaurant has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 620 customers.

After dinner, visit one of the top bars in the city of Waterford City Metropolitan District, Geoff's Cafe Bar. This popular bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,480 customers.

You could also relax with a drink at a popular bar like The Reg. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,344 customers.

Uluru Bar is a popular bar that locals recommend in the city of Waterford City Metropolitan District. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,037 customers.

Be sure to celebrate another day of your incredible road trip adventure through Ireland with a toast!

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Experiences

Day 11 – Munster and Cork

Day 11

Day 11 – Munster and Cork

  • Waterford
  • Cork
  • More

Drive 167 km, 2 hours 36 min

  • Waterford Treasures: Medieval Museum (Treasures of Medieval Waterford)
  • King Of The Vikings
  • House of Waterford Crystal
  • Rock of Cashel
  • Cahir Castle
  • More

Get ready to experience some of the most famous attractions in the area!

One of the best places to visit is the amazing Waterford Treasures: Medieval Museum (Treasures of Medieval Waterford). This attraction is a museum and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 854 visitors.

You could also go sightseeing at the incredible King Of The Vikings. This top-tier point of interest and travel destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 394 visitors.

House of Waterford Crystal is another popular attraction you can explore. This well-known attraction, a spectacular must-see tourist destination, has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 4,065 reviews.

The best tours in this travel destination will take you on an exploration to some of Ireland’s most well-known attractions and best-kept secrets.

With this tour, you’ll set out on a journey to Ireland’s most interesting sights. As you go along this remarkable tour, you’ll also have the unique opportunity to catch a glimpse of Ireland’s scenic spots.

You could then travel to the amazing House of Waterford Crystal for some sightseeing. This popular attraction is a must-see tourist destination and has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,065 visitors.

Another unforgettable travel destination is the outstanding Rock of Cashel. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,334 visitors, this castle deserves a spot on travelers' bucket lists.

We also recommend a visit to the popular Cahir Castle. This attraction, a stunning castle, has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,990 travelers.

You’ll also have your choice of the best hotels and places to stay in the city of Cork.

After a long day of driving and exploring, we recommend you try Hayfield Manor Hotel, one of the best restaurants in the city of Cork. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,427 customers.

Locals also recommend Quinlans Seafood Bar Cork as one of the best restaurants in the city of Cork. Quinlans Seafood Bar Cork is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,527 customers.

After dinner, visit The Thomond Bar, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of Cork. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,430 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like The Woodford. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,261 customers.

Alternatively, The Shelbourne Bar is one of the best bars that locals recommend in the city of Cork. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,024 customers.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure through Ireland!

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Experiences

Day 12 – Cork - departure day

Day 12

Day 12 – Cork - departure day

  • Cork - Departure day
  • More
  • Red Abbey Tower
  • More

Day 12 of your road trip in Ireland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch one last glimpse of Cork before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. When you have time to explore the area before you make your way home, we recommend visiting some of the following attractions.

Red Abbey Tower is an extraordinary attraction you could visit to enjoy your last day in Cork. This top-tier point of interest and popular site of interest has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars by 138 visitors.

Take a stroll along the main shopping streets of Cork and find some souvenirs to remind you of your road trip in Ireland.

You’ll then say farewell to Cork. We wish you a pleasant journey home, with many wonderful memories of your unforgettable vacation in Ireland!

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Experiences

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