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

Your exciting road trip through Ireland starts when you reach the incredible city of Cork, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Cork and begin your adventure in Ireland.

Cork is a popular cheap holiday destination in Ireland with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Ireland, Cork 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.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Cork, 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 Sin é, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,654 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend Liberty Grill, so you'll want to drop by this place. Liberty Grill serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,609 customers.

Another must-try in the city of Cork is Elbow Lane Brew and Smoke House. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 792 customers.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Cork, The Oliver Plunkett. The Old Town Whiskey Bar at Bodega 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 Cornstore Cork, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

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

Day 2 means another chance to make the best memories in this cheap holiday destination in Ireland, Cork. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Cork!

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.

Don't let a tight budget stop you from enjoying delicious meals and refreshing drinks in Cork. Here are a few top-rated restaurants and bars you may want to check out tonight.

We recommend a local favorite like Izz Cafe. This restaurant serves delicious dishes at surprisingly cheap prices and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 731 customers.

Market Lane is another excellent restaurant we recommend for budget travelers in Cork. This restaurant offers good food at even better prices and is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,609 customers.

Another popular restaurant in Cork you might want to check out is The SpitJack Cork. The SpitJack Cork is a local favorite with a variety of value-for-money dishes on their menu. Customers have rated this fantastic restaurant an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 1,934 reviews.

A Bróg Bar + Kitchen is an excellent example of a great bar in Cork offering drinks at reasonable prices. You can also hang out at The Thomond Bar, another of locals’ go-to bars in Cork. But if you’re curious about bars that give you a taste of the nightlife scene in Cork, The Woodford is for you.

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

Day 3 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 — Cork, Ballincollig, Limerick, and Galway. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Galway.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Crawford Art Gallery. Previous visitors have rated this art museum an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,468 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.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Limerick, 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 Cork to Limerick may take around 1 hour 31 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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.

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.

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.

An excellent option with an exciting menu is Hooked. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,796 customers.

Another dining option is O'Connell's Bar Galway. This restaurant is popular among locals and cheap holiday-goers for its delicious food and reasonable prices. O'Connell's Bar Galway has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,659 reviews.

Make sure to stop by Kai Restaurant for a great dining experience. A favorite place to eat among many, around 1,177 customers have rated the irresistible Kai Restaurant an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Tigh Chóilí is a fantastic bar many locals in Galway recognize. This popular bar is an excellent place to unwind after a busy day and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,662 customers.

You can also enjoy a few drinks and some snacks at Caribou, another popular bar in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 979 customers.

An Púcán is a local favorite and a great place to hang out and socialize with other travelers in Galway. Customers have rated the exciting A Púcán an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 3,188 reviews.

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

Day 4 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Galway, proving that cheap holidays in Ireland can be extraordinary.

Take the opportunity to embark on a unique experience in Galway. 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.

Savor the culinary delights of Galway, 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.

One place locals and cheap holiday-goers recommend is Ard Bia at Nimmos. This restaurant is known for its delicious and comforting foods and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,099 customers.

The Quay Street Kitchen is another popular restaurant you can eat at to ensure an affordable and pleasant vacation. This restaurant serves good food at low prices and has an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,029 customers.

Esquires - The Organic Coffee Co (Eyre Square) has a menu of appetizing and reasonably priced meals, so you might want to check it out too. The restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,000 reviews.

The Front Door Pub offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Galway, check out The Skeff Bar. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at The Quays Bar and Restaurant.

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

Make your vacation in Ireland more memorable and epic without spending a fortune. Take advantage of the cheap holiday deals you'll find in Ireland and add budget-friendly activities to your travel plan.

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. Galway has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

One musty-try restaurant is Scotty's Burgers & Wings, Galway, Ireland. This restaurant offers good food at reasonable prices and has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 616 customers.

OSTERIA da Simone : Italian restaurant & pizzeria is an excellent alternative with an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 588 reviews. OSTERIA da Simone : Italian restaurant & pizzeria is known for its delicious meals that will surely satisfy your hunger.

Another of the best places to eat in the area is Zappis Restaurant. This restaurant has an impressive average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 505 customers because of their good food, service, and ambiance.

After your evening meal, enjoy a drink or two at O'Connor's Famous Pub, a must-visit destination for a great night out. Locals also enjoy the cocktails at The Dáil Bar Galway, where you can relax and have some fun in a welcoming environment. Another fantastic option is Monroe's Tavern, known for offering a variety of snacks and drinks at affordable prices.

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

Day 6 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.

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.

Eat at The Kings Head Bistro. This place is a local favorite and has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 3,233 reviews.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Galway, Tigh Neachtain. Alternatively, visit Brasserie On The Corner, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by Taaffes Bar, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

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

Day 7 of your self-drive vacation in Ireland will take you to the city of Dublin, where you'll be staying for 4 nights. On your way to Dublin, you'll explore 4 popular cheap holiday destinations in Ireland, including Kinvarra, Gort, Loughrea Municipal District, and Dublin.

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

When you’ve had your share of Kinvarra, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gort. Your travel time is around 15 min.

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.

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

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.

We recommend a local favorite like FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar. This restaurant serves delicious dishes at surprisingly cheap prices and has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,660 customers.

Shouk is another excellent restaurant we recommend for budget travelers in Dublin. This restaurant offers good food at even better prices and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,608 customers.

Another popular restaurant in Dublin you might want to check out is PHX Bistro. PHX Bistro is a local favorite with a variety of value-for-money dishes on their menu. Customers have rated this fantastic restaurant an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,038 reviews.

The Temple Bar Pub is one of the best bars in Dublin and the perfect place to go for an after-dinner drink. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 25,491 customers.

You may also want to check out The Brazen Head. Equally popular, this bar offers a great drink list and a nice atmosphere for your evening endeavors. The Brazen Head is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,980 customers.

Alternatively, head out to The Church Café, Late Bar & Restaurant. The Church Café, Late Bar & Restaurant has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 10,779 customers and is a top choice among travelers as well as locals.

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

On day 8 of your budget-friendly road trip adventures in Ireland, you’ll go deep into The Municipal District of Trim, making the most of your 3 nights in the town. To learn more of the town's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in The Municipal District of Trim, and meet locals along the way!

Ireland is a wonderful destination with so much to show and so many stories to tell. To have the most extraordinary time on your low-cost holiday in Ireland, consider adding tours to your affordable tour package to Ireland. Choose from many thrilling to laid back and budget-friendly excursions in Ireland that will add color and uniqueness to your adventure.

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 Dublin that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

You could check out The Vintage Kitchen, one of locals’ top restaurant options in the area. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 911 customers, and is a great place to enjoy a satisfying meal after a busy day of exploring.

Chapter One 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 849 diners.

If you feel like having something different, check out the menu at Mr Fox. This restaurant is known to offer good food at reasonable prices. Mr Fox has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 690 customer reviews.

Visit Porterhouse Temple Bar, one of the locals’ favorite hangout spots. Light House Cinema serves various snacks and drinks at affordable prices, making it another great bar option for budget travelers in Dublin. And if you're looking for a special place to enjoy the evening, our recommendation is The Old Storehouse Bar and Restaurant.

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

Day 9 means another chance to make the best memories in this cheap holiday destination in Ireland, Dublin. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by the city of Dublin!

Beyond the above-mentioned locations, today is the perfect opportunity to join a popular activity in Dublin. Plenty of budget-friendly tours in Dublin offer enriching experiences that will make your cheap holiday in Ireland worth remembering for a lifetime.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Dublin offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Ireland.

After a long day of exploring, we recommend you try The Stags Head, one of the top-rated restaurants in the city. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,691 customers and is a great place to relax and enjoy a comforting meal.

Locals also recommend The Celt, so you'll want to drop by this place. The Celt serves delicious meals in hearty portions and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,507 customers.

Another must-try in the city of Dublin is O'Donoghues Bar. This restaurant boasts an exciting menu and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,110 customers.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Dublin, The Bank on College Green. Café en Seine 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 Murray’s Pub, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

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

Day 10 of your road trip itinerary introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, proving that cheap holidays in Ireland can be extraordinary.

Cheap, budget vacations are nothing but incredible, especially when you’re in Ireland. To have the best affordable travel experience in Ireland, make time for some unique, challenging, or inspiring activities. Adding a tour to your travel plan promises a one-of-a kind adventure that will make your cheap vacation in Ireland unforgettable. Fortunately, you'll find plenty of budget-friendly tours and cheap holiday deals in 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.

An excellent option with an exciting menu is Lemon Jelly Cafe. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,104 customers.

If you’re not ready to call it a day, pop into The Palace Bar, considered one of the best bars in Dublin. You can also enjoy drinks at Merchant's Arch, known for its fun atmosphere.

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

Day 11 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.

Enniskerry’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Dublin behind. This drive usually takes around 49 min. Enniskerry welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Kilkenny Castle. This schloss country house museum is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,743 visitors.

Kilkenny Castle is another popular attraction you could visit today. This schloss country house museum has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,458 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Waterford City Metropolitan District, 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 Kilkenny to Waterford City Metropolitan District may take around 39 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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

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.

After dinner, visit Geoff's Cafe Bar and experience the nightlife in the city of Waterford City Metropolitan District. This bar is one of the best places to cap off the night and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,480 customers.

You can also hang out at The Reg. This bar serves a variety of snacks and drinks and has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,344 customers.

Locals recommend The Gingerman, so definitely check it out too. The Gingerman is a place to enjoy friendly chats with locals and fellow travelers and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 937 bar-goers.

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

On day 12 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Ireland, you’ll experience 4 charming destinations — Waterford City Metropolitan District, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel, Cahir, and Cork. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the city of Cork.

Take the opportunity to see Waterford Treasures: Medieval Museum (Treasures of Medieval Waterford). This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 862 visitors.

King Of The Vikings is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 400 travelers.

Waterford City Metropolitan District is also the home of House of Waterford Crystal. Around 4,104 people have rated this point of interest an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel. This car ride takes around 1 hour 14 min.

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.

Cahir’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of The Municipal District of Cahir — Cashel behind. This drive usually takes around 17 min. Cahir welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cahir Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,042 visitors.

Cork’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Cahir behind. This drive usually takes around 54 min. Cork welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Cork 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.

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 Cork that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

For the best dining experience in this affordable destination, eat at the highly recommended Luigi Malones Cork. This restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger as it has an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,073 customers.

Hayfield Manor Hotel is another local-favorite restaurant in Cork. Hayfield Manor Hotel serves delicious and affordable meals, and is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,427 reviews.

Known for its good food and service, Quinlans Seafood Bar Cork is also popular among locals and cheap holiday goers in Waterford City Metropolitan District. This restaurant has an average rating of 4.6 of 5 stars from around 1,527 customers.

Locals recommend going for a drink at The Shelbourne Bar. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,024 customers.

Another popular bar you could swing by after dinner is Cask. This bar is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 974 customers.

White Rabbit Bar & BBQ also makes the list of popular bars you could visit tonight. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 991 customers.

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

Your budget road trip vacation in Ireland is about to end. Day 13 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Cork.

As you approach the end of your journey in Ireland, take a moment for some retail therapy in Cork’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Ireland, a variety of items are waiting for you. Hold onto the magic of Ireland with these wonderful souvenirs, ensuring your memories never fade.

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!