13-Day Ireland Road Trip from Cork traveling north to Galway, Dublin, and Waterford City Metropolitan District

Welcome to Cork, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Ireland! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Cork's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Cork is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Cork. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Ireland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Cork. 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 an outstanding luxury dining experience at Goldie. Holding an impressive rating and a remarkable menu, Goldie consistently impresses both foreign and local guests, earning praise for its exceptional seafood cuisine.

Another renowned restaurant is Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine, one of the best venues in Cork. Take your pick from the japanese menu, where each dish is a masterpiece meticulously crafted to delight your senses. This restaurant promises a high-quality experience for those looking for a luxurious dining experience.

Savor the flavors of Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House, a renowned dining destination in Cork. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 792 satisfied guests.

When you’ve finished your meal, The Oliver Plunkett is one of the best bars in Cork for an after-dinner drink. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,192 customers.

The Old Town Whiskey Bar at Bodega is another of the most popular bars in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,534 customers.

Alternatively, check out Cornstore Cork. This popular place has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, as rated by 1,516 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 13-day road trip in Ireland!

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cork for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Izz Cafe, a distinguished dining establishment in Cork. It has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 731 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Cork is Market Lane. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 2,609 happy diners.

The SpitJack Cork stands out as a local favorite in Cork. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,934 customers.

Make your way to A Bróg Bar + Kitchen. This bar promises a great atmosphere for your celebrations and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,592 customers.

Or, why not continue your evening at The Thomond Bar? This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars among 1,430 guests.

Another bar where you can have a great time tonight is The Woodford. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,261 customers.

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

On day 3 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, Ballincollig, Limerick, and Galway. In the evening, you’ll end up in Galway, where you will stay for 4 nights.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Crawford Art Gallery. This art museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Cork, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,468 visitors.

Cork Opera House is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,841 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Limerick. This car ride takes around 1 hour 31 min.

When you’ve had your share of Limerick, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Galway. Your travel time is around 1 hour 14 min.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Galway. Galway offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Hooked, a popular restaurant in Galway. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,796 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at O'Connell's Bar Galway during your stay in Galway. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 1,659 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Kai Restaurant, a renowned dining destination in Galway. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,177 satisfied guests.

After dinner, visit Tigh Chóilí, which is considered one of the best bars in the city of Galway. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,662 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar like Caribou. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 979 customers.

Alternatively, locals recommend A Púcán. This bar, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,188 customers, is one of the best bars in the city of Galway.

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

Day 4 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Galway. You have 3 nights left in Galway. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

One of the most unique ways of discovering what else Galway has to offer is by going on a top-rated tour. Be sure to check out all the experiences Galway offers and add your favorites to your Ireland travel package below.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Galway. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Book a table at Ard Bia at Nimmos, a famous dining establishment in Galway. This culinary hotspot and its appetizing cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,099 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Galway is The Quay Street Kitchen, which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.7 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 1,029 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Galway’s Esquires - The Organic Coffee Co (Eyre Square) for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,000 satisfied diners.

The Front Door Pub is one of our top recommendations. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,692 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular bar that locals recommend, like The Skeff Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,056 customers.

The Quays Bar and Restaurant is another top-rated bar in the city of Galway. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,514 customers.

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

Day 5 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Galway has to offer. Cherish the 2 nights you have left in Galway by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

There are plenty of experiences you can choose from in Ireland that will add excitement to your vacation. When you’re keen to discover what else Galway has in store for you, use this day to go on a tour. This tour allows curious travelers like you to experience the best of the country. You can make the most of your time in Ireland by scrolling down and selecting tours and activities to include on your itinerary for the day.

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

Make sure to book a table at Scotty's Burgers & Wings, Galway, Ireland. , a popular restaurant in Galway. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 616 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at OSTERIA da Simone : Italian restaurant & pizzeria during your stay in Galway. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 588 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Zappis Restaurant, a renowned dining destination in Galway. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 505 satisfied guests.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, a popular bar you can go to is O'Connor's Famous Pub. This place has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,806 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at The Dáil Bar Galway. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,040 customers.

Monroe's Tavern is another great place where you can celebrate after a long, fun day in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,993 customers.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Galway. You’ll stay in Galway for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

To do something one-of-a-kind on this day of your trip, you can join a tour. You can discover all of the most fun and eye-opening experiences in your destination below and secure your spot here.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Galway.

Don't miss out on experiencing The Kings Head Bistro, a renowned dining spot in Galway. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 3,233 satisfied guests.

One of travelers' and locals' favorite bars in the city is Tigh Neachtain. This claim is supported by 1,561 customers who have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you want to continue your night somewhere else, head to another popular place like Brasserie On The Corner. This bar is a local favorite, with great drinks, lovely service, and an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,337 customers.

The options in Galway don’t end there. You could also spend some time at the excellent Taaffes Bar. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,455 customers, this bar is one of the best places to relax after a long, adventure-filled day.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Ireland!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Kinvarra, Gort, Loughrea Municipal District, and Dublin. 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Dunguaire Castle, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 4,855 reviews.

Gort’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kinvarra behind. This drive usually takes around 15 min. Gort welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Coole Park. This much-appreciated park is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,367 reviews.

Next up is Coole Park Nature Reserve. This park has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 562 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dublin. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 21 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dublin.

Bastible is the restaurant to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 1-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature modern meals.

Elevate your dining experience at a 2-star Michelin restaurant in Dublin, Patrick Guilbaud. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature modern french dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Dublin you shouldn’t miss is Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 2-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s modern menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at a bar. The Temple Bar Pub is a great place to continue your night. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,491 customers.

If you want to know where locals go, check out The Brazen Head. This bar has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,980 customers.

Another popular bar in the city is The Church Café, Late Bar & Restaurant. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,779 customers.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Ireland!

Day 8 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in The Municipal District of Trim for 3 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

You can learn more about The Municipal District of Trim today by going on a tour. The Municipal District of Trim offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites 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.

An excellent example is the popular The Vintage Kitchen. Serving a menu of mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 911 customers.

Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 849 customers, this famous restaurant is one of the town's most recommended places to eat.

If you wish to dine at a restaurant locals love, go to the wonderful Mr Fox. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 690 customers, and is an awesome place to satisfy your craving for good food and service.

If you feel like having a drink or two after your meal, an awesome bar you can go to is Porterhouse Temple Bar. This place has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,884 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Light House Cinema. This bar is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,744 customers.

The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant is another great place where you can celebrate your adventures in Dublin. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,719 customers.

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

Day 9 of your road trip across Ireland promises a magnificent time exploring Dublin. You have 2 nights left in Dublin. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

Your discoveries in Dublin do not have to stop there. Check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Dublin on this day of your trip. You can select your tours 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.

Don't forget to book a table at The Stags Head, a well-known eatery in Dublin. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,691 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit The Celt while exploring Dublin. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 4,507 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of O'Donoghues Bar, a popular restaurant in Dublin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,110 discerning diners.

When you’ve finished dinner and you’re in the mood for a drink, we recommend visiting one of the best bars in Dublin. The Bank on College Green offers plenty of drink options for every taste and budget. Around 4,043 customers have given this bar an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Alternatively, go to a bar that locals recommend, like Café en Seine. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,282 customers.

If you're looking for something else, check out Murray’s Pub. This bar is one of the best places to enjoy a drink and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,882 customers.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

Day 10 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.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Dublin on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

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

Plan ahead and secure a table at Lemon Jelly Cafe, an acclaimed dining establishment in Dublin. This restaurant and its exquisite cuisine have earned the admiration of diners far and wide. Its commitment to culinary excellence shines through its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,104 satisfied guests.

To get a drink at one of the best bars in the city, go to The Palace Bar. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,824 customers.

If you’d like to continue your evening somewhere else, we recommend heading to Merchant's Arch. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,988 customers.

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

Dive into day 11 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Enniskerry, Wicklow, The Municipal District of Bray, Kilkenny, and Waterford City Metropolitan District, 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 Waterford City Metropolitan District. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Dublin, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Enniskerry may take around 49 min. Upon your arrival in Enniskerry, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Kilkenny Castle, a remarkable schloss country house museum where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,743 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Kilkenny Castle. This schloss country house museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,458 travelers.

Waterford City Metropolitan District’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Kilkenny behind. This drive usually takes around 39 min. Waterford City Metropolitan District welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Waterford City Metropolitan District, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Waterford City Metropolitan District. 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.

Transform your dining experience at Everett's, one of the top luxury restaurants in Waterford City Metropolitan District. Offering a diverse menu focusing on modern cuisine, Everett's has earned praise from numerous satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Momo Restaurant while exploring Waterford City Metropolitan District. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 854 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of McLeary's Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Waterford City Metropolitan District. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 620 discerning diners.

If you're in the mood for an after-dinner drink, Geoff's Cafe Bar is our number one recommendation. Around 1,480 customers have rated this bar 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The Reg also has a great drinks menu. This bar is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,344 reviews.

The Gingerman is another popular place to spend the evening in Waterford City Metropolitan District. This bar is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 937 customers.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Ireland.

On day 12 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Waterford City Metropolitan District, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, Cahir, and Cork. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cork, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Waterford Treasures: Medieval Museum (Treasures of Medieval Waterford). This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 862 visitors.

King Of The Vikings is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 400 visitors.

House of Waterford Crystal is also highly recommended by travelers. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,104 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Waterford City Metropolitan District, you’ll hit the road in the direction of The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 14 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Rock of Cashel. This extraordinary castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,510 visitors.

Set your GPS to Cahir and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 17 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cahir beckons with new experiences!

Make Cahir Castle one of your first sightseeing stops in Cahir. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,042 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Cork. Cork offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

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

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Luigi Malones Cork, a distinguished dining establishment in Cork. It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 2,073 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Cork is Hayfield Manor Hotel. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 1,427 happy diners.

Quinlans Seafood Bar Cork stands out as a local favorite in Cork. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 1,527 customers.

If you’re up for getting a drink after dinner, The Shelbourne Bar is a great place to go. Around 1,024 customers have rated this popular bar an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Cask has an atmosphere and drink selection that guests especially enjoy. Cask has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 974 reviews and is considered one of the best you can experience in the city.

Another top-rated alternative for a celebratory drink is White Rabbit Bar & BBQ. If this is where the night will take you, you’re in for a fun time in Cork. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 991 customers.

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

Day 13 of your road trip in Ireland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cork before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Make the most of your final day in Ireland by visiting Cork’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Ireland. Take home a piece of Ireland with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

Before you conclude your road trip in Ireland, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Cork.

You’ll then say farewell to Cork. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Ireland!