Relaxed 12-Day Ireland Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Dublin to Kilkenny and Wexford

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through Ireland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Dublin. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Dublin. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Dublin!

Whether you decide to explore Dublin on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

To truly experience Dublin, make sure to drop by Phoenix Park. This interesting park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Dublin Zoo, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Guinness Storehouse, one of the most notable places to see in Dublin. This brewery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, St Patrick's Cathedral. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this church offers.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Ireland by joining a traveler-approved tour in Dublin. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Dublin that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Ireland more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Dublin to find the best options for you!

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Dublin has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to an extraordinary dining experience at Bastible, a 1-star Michelin restaurant offering an incredible modern menu. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Patrick Guilbaud is one of the best restaurants for modern french cuisine in Dublin. This 2-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from guests. We also recommend checking out the menu at Chapter One by Mickael Viljanen. As a top-rated establishment with 2 Michelin star, it is an ideal choice for modern cuisine in the city.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bruxelles, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Light House Cinema, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Bowe's Lounge Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Ireland.

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Ireland, you’ll go deep into Dublin, where you'll stay for 5 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. 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!

Let St Stephen's Green set the tone for the day. Spend some time admiring this eye-catching park before continuing your journey. National Museum Of Ireland – Archaeology is your next stop. This popular museum is one of the best-rated sights in Dublin.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit National Gallery Of Ireland. This instagrammable art gallery is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Natural History Museum and National Botanic Gardens.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Ireland. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Ireland and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Ireland, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Dublin.

Make sure to reserve a table at The Brazen Head, an iconic dining spot in Dublin. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bewley's Grafton Street, a popular restaurant in Dublin. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The Shack Restaurant Temple Bar, a hidden gem nestled in Dublin. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Dublin. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Keep the evening going at The Bridge 1859, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to The Dame Tavern, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Mary's Bar & Hardware, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Dublin!

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Dublin, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Ireland are extraordinary.

Check out the intriguing church, Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin. Afterward, continue to Dublin Castle, a castle every traveler should visit. As you explore Dublin’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city.

Next, make your way to Molly Malone Statue. This well-known monument is an essential stop. Following that, head to Irish Whiskey Museum, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Book Of Kells, a well-known museum in the city.

Ireland makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Ireland also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Ireland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Dublin, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Dine in style at SOLE Seafood & Grill, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Kehoes Pub boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Cobblestone. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Dublin.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Dublin’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Ireland.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at John Fallon's "the Capstan Bar". Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across Ireland.

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip in Ireland, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Dublin and visit amazing attractions in Malahide, just outside the city. You still have 3 nights left in Dublin, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Malahide, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Dublin to Malahide may take around 28 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Malahide, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Malahide Castle & Gardens and explore the history-steeped features.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Santry Park. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the park before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to St. Catherine's Park (fingal). This underrated park is a traveler-favorite in the town.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Dublin has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Stags Head, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Chapter One Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Bank on College Green. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Dublin.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Ireland.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Malahide can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Ireland!

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland, you’ll explore the area around Dublin, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Dublin will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Ireland.

Dún Laoghaire is brimming with adventures.

Set your GPS to Dún Laoghaire and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 39 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Dún Laoghaire beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Dún Laoghaire Harbour Police, a worthwhile marina known for its instagrammable features. Next, continue your sightseeing at People's Park, a frequently visited park.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Forty Foot and uncover the details of this eye-catching beach. Make sure to also explore Killiney Hill Park, an often recommended park.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dundrum may take around 21 min. Upon your arrival in Dundrum, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Marlay Park, an up-and-coming park that everyone visiting Dundrum should see.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Ireland. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Dublin, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at FX Buckley Steakhouse Temple Bar, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try The Winding Stair? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Mayfield Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Dublin.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Dublin.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Ireland!

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip through Ireland means 24 hours of making the best memories in Kilkenny. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Kilkenny. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Kilkenny!

A visit to High Street is a must on the agenda today. This street is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights.

No visit to Kilkenny is complete without Kilkenny Castle. This interesting park is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Kilkenny Castle, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Kilkenny, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Smithwick's Experience Kilkenny. This up-and-coming brewery is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find St Canice's Cathedral, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Ireland more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Kilkenny offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

Exploring the food culture in Kilkenny offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Italian Connection, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Syd Harkin's Pub? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Butcher Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Kilkenny.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Blue Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Ryans Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Christy's Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Kilkenny can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Ireland!

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip across Ireland offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Whitechurch and drive in the direction of Slade for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Wexford, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Slade 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. Slade beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is John-f.-kennedy-arboretum. Spend some time admiring the majestic features of the botanical garden before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Whitechurch, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Slade. This drive usually takes around 32 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Hook Lighthouse, a beloved lighthouse in Slade. Explore its standout features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Barntown, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Slade to Barntown may take around 48 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Barntown, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Irish National Heritage Park, an intriguing museum in Barntown. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

You'll be staying in Wexford on this laid-back road trip through Ireland. You'll stay here for 1 night.

Exploring the food culture in Wexford offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the town.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Trimmers Lane Cafe, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Vine Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Cistín Eile is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Wexford.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Wexford. The bars in Wexford make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Sinnott's Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Bugler Doyles Bar & Guest Accommodation, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Maggie May's Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Ireland!

Day 11 of your relaxed road trip in Ireland will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Ireland, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

After soaking in Rathdrum’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Laragh. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 19 min. When you arrive in Laragh, it's time to take a break from the road.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Beyond The Trees Avondale, an often recommended canopy walk that everyone visiting Rathdrum should see.

After soaking in Rathdrum’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Laragh. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 19 min. When you arrive in Laragh, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Glendalough Cathedral, a beloved church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Laragh and set your GPS to Wicklow. 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 31 min. Upon reaching Wicklow, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Wicklow is Wicklow Mountains National Park, a curiosity-inducing national park that draws attention for its romantic features.

In Dublin, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Ireland.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bar Italia ristorante, a top-rated dining destination in Dublin. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Slattery's, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Darkey Kelly's. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Dublin this evening.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Dublin’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Ireland.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Ireland. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Ireland tomorrow with new energy.