Cheap 12-Day Ireland Road Trip from Dublin to Waterford City Metropolitan District, Killarney, Limerick, and Galway

Your exciting road trip through Ireland starts when you reach the incredible city of Dublin, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Dublin and begin your adventure in Ireland.

Dublin is a popular cheap holiday destination in Ireland with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Ireland, Dublin is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

A cheap, budget vacation in Dublin should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Dublin, try some of our top recommendations.

One musty-try restaurant is FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar. This restaurant offers good food at reasonable prices and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,660 customers.

Shouk is an excellent alternative with an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,608 reviews. Shouk is known for its delicious meals that will surely satisfy your hunger.

Another of the best places to eat in the area is PHX Bistro. This restaurant has an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,038 customers because of their good food, service, and ambiance.

The Temple Bar Pub is an excellent example of a great bar in Dublin offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at The Brazen Head, another of locals’ go-to bars in Dublin. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Dublin, The Church Café, Late Bar & Restaurant is for you.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Ireland!

On day 2 of your budget-friendly road trip adventures in Ireland, you’ll go deep into Dublin, making the most of your 2 nights in the city. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Dublin, and meet locals along the way!

Your discovery of Dublin does not have to stop there. You can add a budget-friendly activity on your itinerary and get to know more about Dublin on a personal level. Check out the fantastic selection of affordable tours and tickets offered on this leg of your journey across this top cheap holiday destination in Europe, Ireland.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Dublin, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try The Vintage Kitchen, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 911 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend Chapter One Restaurant, so you'll want to drop by this place. Chapter One Restaurant serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 849 customers.

Another must-try in the city of Dublin is Mr Fox. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 690 customers.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Dublin, Porterhouse Temple Bar. Light House Cinema is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

A road trip vacation in Dublin can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Ireland!

Day 3’s road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, proving that cheap holidays in Ireland can be extraordinary.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Dublin. You’ll be excited to learn that there are plenty of easy to challenging tour options you can choose from and add to this cheap vacation package.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Dublin has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

One musty-try restaurant is The Stags Head. This restaurant offers good food at reasonable prices and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,691 customers.

The Celt is an excellent alternative with an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 4,507 reviews. The Celt is known for its delicious meals that will surely satisfy your hunger.

Another of the best places to eat in the area is O'Donoghues Bar. This restaurant has an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,110 customers because of their good food, service, and ambiance.

The Bank on College Green is a great spot where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after an active day. Alternatively, Café en Seine is another excellent place to relax and have a drink or two after a busy day. You might also want to cap the night off at Murray’s Pub, a fascinating bar that offers a unique ambiance and a wide selection of cocktails.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Dublin!

Day 4 of your road trip across Ireland offers you the chance to visit 5 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Enniskerry, Wicklow, The Municipal District of Bray, Kilkenny, and Waterford City Metropolitan District. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Waterford City Metropolitan District.

When you’ve had your share of Dublin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Enniskerry. Your travel time is around 49 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Kilkenny Castle. This schloss country house museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Kilkenny, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,743 visitors.

Kilkenny Castle is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,458 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

After soaking in Kilkenny’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Waterford City Metropolitan District. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 39 min. When you arrive in Waterford City Metropolitan District, it's time to take a break from the road.

Waterford City Metropolitan District offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Ireland. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Savor the culinary delights of Waterford City Metropolitan District, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

You could check out Emiliano's, one of locals’ top restaurant options in the area. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 945 customers, and is a great place to enjoy a satisfying meal after a busy day of exploring.

Momo Restaurant is another excellent choice for cheap holiday-goers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and comforting foods and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 854 diners.

If you feel like having something different, check out the menu at McLeary's Restaurant. This restaurant is known to offer good food at reasonable prices. McLeary's Restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 620 customer reviews.

If you’re up for getting a drink after dinner, Geoff's Cafe Bar is a great place to go. Around 1,480 customers have rated this popular bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The Reg has an atmosphere and drink selection that guests especially enjoy. The Reg has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,344 reviews and is considered one of the best you can experience in the city.

Another top-rated alternative for a celebratory drink is The Gingerman. If this is where the night will take you, you’re in for a fun time in Waterford City Metropolitan District. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 937 customers.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Ireland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Ireland!

Day 5 of your road trip across Ireland is another proof that cheap holidays in Ireland can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes exploring 4 wonderful destinations — The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, Cahir, Carrigtwohill, and Killarney. You’ll explore along your route leading to the region of Killarney.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Waterford City Metropolitan District and set your GPS to The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel. 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 1 hour 13 min. Upon reaching The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Rock of Cashel, a remarkable castle where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,510 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Cahir, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel to Cahir may take around 17 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Kick off the day at Cahir Castle, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,042 reviews.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Fota Wildlife Park. This zoo is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 12,379 visitors.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the region of Killarney. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Killarney, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Killarney has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try Cronins Restaurant, one of the top-rated restaurants in the region. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 950 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend Celtic Whiskey Bar & Larder, so you'll want to drop by this place. Celtic Whiskey Bar & Larder serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 766 customers.

Another must-try in the region of Killarney is Bricín Restaurant and Boxty House. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 626 customers.

John M. Reidy is one of the best bars in Killarney 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 2,292 customers.

You may also want to check out Murphys Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse Killarney. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your evening endeavors. Murphys Bar, Restaurant & Townhouse Killarney is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,665 customers.

Alternatively, head out to The Laurels Pub & Restaurant. The Laurels Pub & Restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 1,544 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Ireland! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the region of Killarney!

Day 6 of your self-drive vacation in Ireland will take you to the city of Limerick, where you'll be staying for 2 nights. On your way to Limerick, you'll explore 3 popular cheap holiday destinations in Ireland, including Cork and Limerick.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cork. This car ride takes around 1 hour 16 min.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Fitzgerald's Park. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 5,170 reviews.

Continue your journey at Cork City Gaol. This prison is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,919 travelers from near and far.

Cork is also the home of Cork Opera House. This opera house has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,841 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Limerick. This car ride takes around 1 hour 20 min.

While exploring Ireland is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Limerick has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Limerick on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Limerick, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

The Locke Bar is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,798 customers.

Texas Steakout is another great restaurant option for budget travelers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and savory meals at low prices and is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,450 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at Nancy Blakes, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,535 reviews.

After your meal, we recommend you get a drink at one of the best bars in the city. Marco Polo is a popular option with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,242 customers.

Another top option is The Old Quarter GastroPub. This bar offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and has been rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,238 customers.

The Curragower | Limerick is also a great place to continue your evening. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 874 customers.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Ireland!

On day 7 of your affordable vacation in Ireland, prepare for another exciting road trip adventure within and immediately outside Limerick. You’ll start exploring in Limerick. You’ll visit more of the best attractions in Ireland, discover new cultures, and take in unique experiences.

Journey into the unknown at Ross Castle, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 7,141 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Killarney, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Limerick. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 41 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

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

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Limerick has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

Cornstore Limerick is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,389 customers.

Coqbull Limerick is another great restaurant option for budget travelers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and savory meals at low prices and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,385 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at Taikichi, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,017 reviews.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Limerick, Bobby Byrne's. Jerry Flannery's Bar is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Mickey Martin's Pub, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Raise your glass to celebrate your fun and affordable travel experience in the city of Limerick!

On day 8 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Ireland, you’ll experience 4 charming destinations — Limerick, Bunratty, and Galway. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Galway.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Arthur's Quay Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Limerick, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,212 visitors.

King John's Castle is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,634 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Limerick, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bunratty may take around 17 min. Upon your arrival in Bunratty, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Galway offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Ireland. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Indulge in the culinary wonders of Galway, where exceptional dining and drinking experiences await at unbeatable prices. Explore the city's diverse venues, ensuring a memorable culinary journey for every visitor.

Visit the popular Hooked. Serving a menu of mouthwatering dishes, this restaurant is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,796 customers.

Another restaurant you should check out during your cheap vacation in Ireland is O'Connell's Bar Galway. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,659 customers, this famous restaurant is one of the area's most recommended places to eat.

If you wish to dine at a restaurant locals love, go to the wonderful Kai Restaurant. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,177 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, a popular bar you can go to is Tigh Chóilí. This place has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,662 customers.

To enjoy a great atmosphere, continue your evening at Caribou. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 979 customers.

An Púcán is another great place where you can celebrate after a long, fun day in the city. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,188 customers.

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Ireland with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Ireland!

Day 9 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Galway, proving that cheap holidays in Ireland can be extraordinary.

Keen to do something new and one-of-a-kind today? There are many experiences you can add to your cheap vacation package. Check out all the budget-friendly activities and tours below and bag a cheap holiday deal.

A cheap, budget vacation in Galway should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Galway, try some of our top recommendations.

You could check out Ard Bia at Nimmos, one of locals’ top restaurant options in the area. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,099 customers, and is a great place to enjoy a satisfying meal after a busy day of exploring.

The Quay Street Kitchen is another excellent choice for cheap holiday-goers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and comforting foods and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,029 diners.

If you feel like having something different, check out the menu at Esquires - The Organic Coffee Co (Eyre Square). This restaurant is known to offer good food at reasonable prices. Esquires - The Organic Coffee Co (Eyre Square) has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,000 customer reviews.

Cap off your night in this cheap holiday destination at The Front Door Pub and try some of its cocktails and snacks. The Skeff Bar is another great place to hang out and unwind. If you want to have a drink or two with locals, you'll want to visit The Quays Bar and Restaurant, offering the perfect setting to unwind and savor the evening.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Ireland. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Ireland!

Day 10 of your road trip adventure means another chance to make the best memories in this cheap holiday destination in Ireland. Prepare to be blown away by the city of Galway!

For a truly remarkable cheap holiday experience in Galway, join budget-friendly activities on this day of your vacation. Tours offer you a chance to take a closer look into Galway and the culture of past or present-day Ireland.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Ireland by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Galway that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Scotty's Burgers & Wings, Galway, Ireland. Is an excellent example. Here, you can enjoy good food and service at affordable prices. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 616 customers.

OSTERIA da Simone : Italian restaurant & pizzeria is another great restaurant option for budget travelers. This restaurant serves a variety of delicious and savory meals at low prices and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 588 customers.

Locals enjoy dining at Zappis Restaurant, and you might want to check it out too. This restaurant has an exciting menu and an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 505 reviews.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Galway, O'Connor's Famous Pub. Alternatively, visit The Dáil Bar Galway, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Monroe's Tavern, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Ireland! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Galway!

Day 11 of your road trip across Ireland offers you the chance to visit 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Kinvarra, Gort, Loughrea Municipal District, and Dublin. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Dublin.

Set your GPS to Kinvarra and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 32 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kinvarra beckons with new experiences!

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Dunguaire Castle. This extraordinary point of interest is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 4,855 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Kinvarra, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Gort may take around 15 min. Upon your arrival in Gort, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take the opportunity to see Coole Park. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,367 visitors.

Coole Park Nature Reserve is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This park has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 562 travelers.

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.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Dublin. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Dublin, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

Discovering the culinary wonders of Dublin is a must-do on your budget-friendly vacation! When hunger strikes, make your way to one of the city's top dining spots and bars. Indulge in delicious meals and refreshing drinks that cater to every taste and budget!

For the best dining experience in this affordable destination, eat at the highly recommended Lemon Jelly Cafe. This restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger as it has an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,104 customers.

After dinner, visit The Palace Bar for a drink or two. This bar serves plenty of food and drink options and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,824 customers.

You can also enjoy your night at Merchant's Arch. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,988 customers, it's safe to say that Merchant's Arch promises an unforgettable bar experience.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Ireland!

Your budget road trip vacation in Ireland is about to end. Day 12 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Dublin.

As your final day in Ireland unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Dublin’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of Ireland. Keep the spirit of your trip to Ireland alive with these special 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!