One-Week Ireland Road Trip from Dublin traveling west to Limerick, Cork, Waterford City Metropolitan District, and Kilkenny

Say hello to Dublin! Your exciting road trip through Ireland is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Dublin for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

Dublin 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 Dublin. 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 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.

Take your Dublin getaway to new heights by dining at Bastible, a restaurant. Renowned for its world-famous 1 Michelin-star rating and a variety of creative and refined dishes, Bastible consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional modern cuisine.

A renowned dining spot in Dublin is Patrick Guilbaud, which holds a rating of 2 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s inviting ambiance and menu leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its modern french menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the Patrick Guilbaud’s culinary mastery.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Dublin and reserve a table at the 2-star Michelin restaurant, Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen. Its delectable modern menu has contributed to impressive reviews from many previous guests. Food enthusiasts visiting the area will be particularly excited to experience this Bib Gourmand restaurant.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend The Temple Bar Pub, claiming it’s one of the best. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,491 customers.

If you feel like going somewhere else, another popular option in the city is The Brazen Head. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,980 customers.

The Church Café, Late Bar & Restaurant is yet another top-rated place where you can easily spend an hour or two. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,779 customers.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in Ireland!

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.

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

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in The Vintage Kitchen, a distinguished dining establishment in Dublin. It has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 911 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Dublin is Chapter One Restaurant. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 849 happy diners.

Mr Fox stands out as a local favorite in Dublin. 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 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 690 customers.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in Dublin. Porterhouse Temple Bar is a fantastic option, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,884 customers.

To end your night the best way possible, don't forget to check out Light House Cinema. This bar offers a great variety of drinks and has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,744 customers.

Another bar with a great atmosphere is The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,719 customers.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Ireland. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Dublin and Limerick. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Limerick, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Molly Malone Statue, a remarkable point of interest where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 11,774 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Book of Kells. This codex has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,299 travelers.

National Botanic Gardens is another must-visit attraction. This renowned botanical garden offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 15,718 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Dublin Zoo. This well-loved zoo boasts a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 25,663 reviews. In a single year, approximately 1,105,005 visitors add this sightseeing spot to their travel itineraries.

When there’s still energy left for exploring, Phoenix Park awaits. If you’ve been interested in experiencing a park, this is a top pick rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 37,298 previous visitors.

Limerick’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Dublin behind. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 16 min. Limerick welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

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

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

An excellent example is the popular The Locke Bar. Serving a menu of mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,798 customers.

Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,450 customers, this famous restaurant is one of the city's most recommended places to eat.

If you wish to dine at a restaurant locals love, go to the wonderful Nancy Blakes. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,535 customers, and is an awesome place to satisfy your craving for good food and service.

Marco Polo is a fantastic bar many locals in Limerick recognize. This popular bar is an excellent place to unwind after a busy day and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,242 customers.

You can also enjoy a few drinks and some snacks at The Old Quarter GastroPub, another popular bar in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,238 customers.

The Curragower | Limerick is a local favorite and a great place to hang out and socialize with other travelers in Limerick. Customers have rated the exciting The Curragower | Limerick an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 874 reviews.

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

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in Ireland. Today you will explore Killarney, Killarney, and Cork, 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 Cork. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Killarney. This car ride takes around 1 hour 44 min.

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.

As you explore more of Cork, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Take your Cork getaway to new heights by dining at Goldie, a luxury restaurant. Renowned for its world-famous rating and a variety of creative and refined dishes, Goldie consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional seafood cuisine.

A renowned dining spot in Cork is Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine. This luxury establishment’s inviting ambiance and menu leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its japanese menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the Ichigo Ichie Bistro & Natural Wine’s culinary mastery.

Delight in the culinary creations of Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House, a favorite in Cork. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 792 discerning guests.

After dinner, visit one of the best bars in the city, The Oliver Plunkett. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 5,192 reviews and guarantees you a great time.

If you want to continue your night somewhere else, head to a popular bar like The Old Town Whiskey Bar at Bodega. This bar is a local favorite, with great drinks, lovely service, and an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,534 customers.

The options in Cork don’t end there, you could also spend some time at the excellent Cornstore Cork. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,516 customers, this bar is one of the best places to relax after a long, adventure-filled day.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Ireland. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 5 vibrant destinations - Ballincollig, Midleton, Carrigtwohill, and Waterford City Metropolitan District. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Waterford City Metropolitan District. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Midleton. This drive usually takes around 23 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Jameson Distillery Midleton, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,546 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Midleton and set your GPS to Carrigtwohill. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 14 min. Upon reaching Carrigtwohill, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Fota Wildlife Park. This zoo is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 12,379 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Waterford City Metropolitan District, 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 Waterford City Metropolitan District. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Everett's is the restaurant to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence and fine dining. This restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature modern meals.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in Waterford City Metropolitan District is Momo Restaurant. It has garnered a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 854 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Experience a celebration of flavors when you dine in at McLeary's Restaurant, in Waterford City Metropolitan District. Its delightful menu and flavorful dishes have earned it a stellar rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 620 satisfied customers.

After dinner, visit Geoff's Cafe Bar to enjoy a couple of drinks and relax. This bar is one of the best in Waterford City Metropolitan District, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,480 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular place like The Reg. This bar is a great spot to meet new friends and celebrate your vacation. The Reg has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,344 customers.

The Gingerman is another bar locals often recommend. This bar offers a great variety of snacks and drinks and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 937 customers.

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

On day 6 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, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, Cahir, and Kilkenny. In the evening, you’ll end up in Kilkenny, where you will stay for 1 night.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Waterford City Metropolitan District, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cork may take around 1 hour 54 min. Upon your arrival in Cork, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Fitzgerald's Park. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,170 reviews.

Cork Opera House is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This opera house is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,841 reviews.

When you’ve had your share of Cork, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Cahir. Your travel time is around 54 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Cahir Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,042 reviews.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Petronella Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Kilkenny. 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 640 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Butcher Restaurant during your stay in Kilkenny. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 563 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Matt The Millers Bar & Restaurant, a renowned dining destination in Kilkenny. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,409 satisfied guests.

Tynans Bridge House Bar is one of the best bars in Kilkenny and the perfect place to go for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 509 customers.

You may also want to check out Kytelers Inn. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your evening endeavors. Kytelers Inn is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,411 customers.

Alternatively, head out to Paris Texas Bar and Restaurant. Paris Texas Bar and Restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,225 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Ireland!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Ireland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 5 destinations, Kilkenny, Enniskerry, Wicklow, The Municipal District of Bray, and Dublin. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Dublin, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Kick off the day at Powerscourt House & Gardens, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,458 reviews.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Enniskerry and set your GPS to Dublin. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 43 min. Upon reaching Dublin, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Dublin. Dublin 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 long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Dublin.

Plan ahead and secure a table at The Stags Head, 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 4,691 satisfied guests.

Do not overlook the culinary excellence of The Celt while experiencing the best of Dublin. This renowned restaurant presents a refined menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 4,507 discerning diners.

Indulge in the rich flavors of O'Donoghues Bar, an elegant culinary destination in Dublin. A menu crafted to perfection guarantees a dining experience that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. Its stellar reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,110 previous guests.

After dinner, visit The Bank on College Green, which is considered one of the best bars in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,043 customers.

You can also enjoy drinks at a popular place like Café en Seine. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,282 customers.

Alternatively, check out Murray’s Pub. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,882 customers.

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

Day 8 of your road trip in Ireland is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Dublin before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

Maximize your last day in Ireland and go on a shopping spree in Dublin’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Ireland, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Ireland home with you through these charming souvenirs.

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

You’ll then say farewell to Dublin. 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!